Jessica Van Onselen
About Jessica Van Onselen
Jessica Van Onselen is the Director of Communications & Marketing at Apolitical, with a diverse background in public affairs and strategic communications across various regions. She has held significant roles at AngloGold Ashanti and BrightGuide Africa, and she is known for her ability to connect ideas and people to drive innovation.
Current Role at Apolitical
Jessica Van Onselen serves as the Director of Communications & Marketing at Apolitical, a position she has held since 2022. Based in London, England, she is responsible for overseeing the organization's communication strategies and marketing initiatives. Her role involves developing and implementing effective communication plans to enhance the organization's visibility and engagement within the public sector.
Previous Experience at AngloGold Ashanti
Jessica Van Onselen has extensive experience at AngloGold Ashanti, where she held multiple roles from 2005 to 2013. She began as a Corporate Affairs Officer and later served as a Government Relations Specialist, Sustainability Manager, and Senior Manager for Public Affairs in the Africa Region. Her work focused on public affairs and sustainability initiatives within the mining sector, contributing to the company's engagement with stakeholders across Africa.
Experience at BrightGuide Africa
At BrightGuide Africa, Jessica held various positions from 2013 to 2022, culminating in her role as Managing Director & Founder. She worked as a Strategic Communications Advisor on projects in Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Zambia, focusing on tax governance, customs reform, and mineral production monitoring. Her contributions helped shape communication strategies that addressed complex governance issues in these regions.
Educational Background
Jessica Van Onselen studied at the University of the Witwatersrand, where she earned a B.A. in Dramatic Art from 1998 to 2001 and a Master's degree in English Literature from 2006 to 2008. Additionally, she completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (Business Administration) at Wits Business School in 2004. Her educational background supports her expertise in communication and management.
Podcast and Personal Interests
In addition to her professional roles, Jessica occasionally hosts a podcast that focuses on transparency and governance. She has a passion for gardening and the arts, reflecting her diverse interests outside of her career in communications and marketing.