Salona Pillay

Creative and detail-oriented Events Planner with a strong background in education, customer service, and brand promotion. Over 10 years of experience in coordinating and managing diverse events including weddings, corporate functions, and promotional showcases. I am known for excellent organizational skills, a flair for aesthetics, and the ability to manage multiple stakeholders with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Educator & Events Organizer at Merebank Secondary & Burnwood Secondary (2011-01 – Present)

Coordinated school events and organized internal staff events and celebrations

• Coordinated school events including Awards Day, Proms, Fun Runs, and Staff Year-End Functions
• Served as Chairperson of the Social Club, organizing internal staff events and celebrations
• Demonstrated leadership, creativity, and strong organizational skills in event execution

Co Founder and Director at Bella Boo PTY LTD (Present)

End-to-end planning, development, and execution of all business operations for a values-driven brand

• Led the brand from concept to market, overseeing product development, production processes, supplier sourcing, pricing strategy, and quality control
• Personally designed and managed all brand assets, including product labels, logo development, website design, and digital and offline advertising campaigns
• Planned and executed marketing strategies across social media, online platforms, events, and direct-to-consumer channels to drive brand awareness and sales
• Managed all financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, cost control, pricing, forecasting, procurement, and cash flow management
• Oversaw inventory management, order fulfilment, and customer experience while ensuring compliance with relevant business and regulatory requirements
• Demonstrated strong project management, creative direction, and operational leadership by coordinating multiple workstreams simultaneously, managing external service providers, and delivering projects on time and within budget
• Built and sustained a values-driven brand focused on quality, creativity, and customer trust

Event Coordinator & Décor Specialist (Part-Time) at YOGS DÉCOR (2013-01 – 2016-12)

Planned and executed events with focus on décor design and vendor coordination

• Planned and executed events including weddings, bridal and baby showers, and corporate year-end functions
• Managed décor design, vendor coordination, and on-site logistics
• Notable events: Premier showing at Gateway, Mr Price and Pavilion year-end functions

Brand Ambassador – P&G & Knorr at The Creative Council (2010-01 – 2010-12)

Promoted hair care and food products in retail environments with focus on customer education

• Promoted hair care and food products in retail environments
• Educated customers on product benefits and usage
• Delivered exceptional customer service and brand representation

Telesales & Call Centre Agent (Temp) at Telkom SA (2005-01 – 2006-12)

Handled customer service and sales operations

• Handled inbound and outbound calls, sales promotions, and account queries
• Promoted Telkom services and resolved customer issues efficiently

Bachelor of Education in Education – University of KwaZulu-Natal – Edgewood Campus