From Zanzibar to Experiential Marketing: The Evolution of Jocelyn van Dijk

Jocelyn van Dijk’s path hasn’t followed convention — and that’s precisely what sets her apart. Her journey is a story of resilience, reinvention, and relentless faith in the power of purpose. It didn’t begin in boardrooms or bustling capitals, but on the shores of Zanzibar during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. What seemed like an uncertain detour at the time became the soil for deep transformation. In those early hospitality roles, Jocelyn discovered her passion for creating experiences that move people — experiences rooted in connection, emotion, and intention.

“Zanzibar taught me what no textbook could — that the most powerful brands aren’t built on image, but on intimacy, honesty, and heart.”

A Chapter of Character and Calling: The South Africa Return

After Zanzibar, Jocelyn returned to South Africa — not to pause, but to rebuild from the inside out. This season was marked by personal evolution, solitude, and mentorship under globally respected leadership author Robin Sharma. Through this rare opportunity, she deepened her understanding of self-leadership, conscious career building, and legacy-driven living.

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“Before I could shape brands with depth, I had to cultivate that depth in myself. That time taught me to lead from alignment, not ambition.”

Scouted by Opportunity: From Hospitality to Creative Hospitality

A pivotal career moment arrived when a Saudi national scouted Jocelyn for marketing services in the hospitality sector. This marked her first official foray into combining creative marketing with hospitality operations — an arena that quickly revealed her talent for storytelling and brand experiences.

A Return to Doha and Founding Bright Vision Media

Following this, Jocelyn returned to Doha, but this time to explore the world of fashion marketing. It was here she crossed paths with an investor who believed in her vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they co-founded Bright Vision Media, a marketing and PR agency dedicated to delivering brand strategy, experiential events, and communications consultancy.

“It was about creating a space where creativity meets impact. Not just campaigns — but moments that matter.”

Early Mentorship and Lasting Influence

A pivotal figure in Jocelyn van Dijk’s early career was director Ghazi Louhichi, who served as her first director and mentor. Working under his guidance offered Jocelyn a formative experience that deeply influenced her professional development. His visionary approach and belief in her potential helped lay the foundation for her confidence and creative growth in the industry. Jocelyn credits Louhichi not only for introducing her to the demands of the craft but also for inspiring her to pursue excellence from the very beginning.

Her Core Philosophy: Presence Over Perfection

Through each chapter — from Zanzibar to South Africa, Doha, and beyond — Jocelyn has distilled a single core leadership lesson: presence matters more than perfection.

“Show up clear, consistent, and authentic. That builds trust and impact faster than chasing surface-level approval.”

Vision for the Future: Strategy with Soul

Jocelyn’s long-term vision is to be remembered as a leader who brought soul into strategy — someone who built with intention, empowered others, and left behind a legacy of meaningful human connection.

Her mantra?

“Trust the timing. Trust your voice.
You won’t always have the map, but you’ll always have the intuition.
Don’t shrink to fit rooms not built for you. Stay consistent. Your authenticity is your edge.”

Follow Jocelyn’s Journey

On Instagram: @holisticallyjoss, she shares her professional milestones, wellness routines, travel stories, and insights on leadership and authenticity — offering a glimpse into the life of a modern brand strategist leading with both presence and purpose.

Why Jocelyn’s Story Matters

  • Inspiration through Adversity: From island beginnings to impactful creative ventures.
  • Impact with Intention: Every project aligns with her core values — community, transformation, and integrity.
  • Authenticity at Every Step: Raw, transparent, and purpose-driven, both online and offline.

For emerging experiential marketers, her story isn’t just motivational — it’s a blueprint for resilience, creativity, and purpose-led leadership.

Next Moves

  • New UAE venture: A yet-to-be-named initiative focused on community-building and brand impact.
  • Continued storytelling: Sharing insights, behind-the-scenes, and wellness content through her digital platforms.

Follow along to witness how she weaves strategy, soul, and legacy into every move—one meaningful connection at a time. Do follow her on Instagram.

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