Meet Naana Joa Braso, an African Freelancer

Naana Joa Braso is a freelance writer, social media manager and brand developer from Ghana. She started writing poetry and short stories when she was 14 years old. 10 years later, as she started working in a corporate environment, she picked up official letter writing and also article writing when she became a contributor at She Leads Africa.

She has a background in secretaryship/management studies, public relations and enthusiasm in the sorcery of social media. She loves promoting local businesses, startups and has a soft spot for nonprofits and social enterprises. She hopes to live in a different city every night.

We had a chat with Naana Joa Braso!

What services/products do you offer?

Administrative Support, Brand Development, Content Writing, Consultancy (fundraising/ finance management) and Social Media Management

When did you realise that you wanted to become a freelancer?

3 years ago, I resigned from my job as a secretary in a shipping agency because I needed to catch my breath. I was tired of the 8-5 and needed something new to do. The plan was to travel around but as my savings would not permit me, I had to be creative.

This led me to look for the skills I possess and can make money from. I became a freelancer because I was broke, tired of the corporate world and realized I could actually make money doing what I love and I’m good at.

What factors determined your choice?

• Doing something I love and being paid for it
• The flexibility
• The various clients and industries I can learn from
• The different people I get to meet
• The opportunity to expand my skills as some clients will require work you may
  have never done before
• I get to be my own BOSS!

How did you initially feel when you started getting gigs?

OMG! OMG! OMG! People actually love what I do! I mean, people really believe in what I do and want to work with me!

My first gig was with a fashion school and I wrote a portfolio for nearly 35 students.

Was it difficult to pitch to potential clients and how did you source for them?

Actually, I had never had to pitch my services to clients until just last month as most of my clients are through referrals from other clients. As referrals are my strongest suit so far, I always exceed the expectations of clients. They have to come back with more clients.

However, I landed my first international client from an ad I saw on SheVestor, where Christine Sesay of @africasmoneypreneur needed a social media manager.

The worst a person can say to you is no. So never refrain from applying for freelance positions that fit your skills.

Also, I have learned to pitch my services in under 2 minutes. I back it by sending a profile containing all my services plus arrange for a presentation to discuss what I can do for their businesses.

What are the major highlights of your career as a freelancer?

Retainers!!! I currently have 3 satisfied clients on retainers who refer friends and families to me.

I always go the extra mile for these clients by giving free advice, tips and adding that personal touch to everything of theirs.

What are the down-times in your career?

The dry spells and uncertainties.

Until you have a couple of clients on retainers, you may have to go some weeks/months without income. If you have some money saved, then good for you but if you do not, then I suggest you start searching for a client or get a side hustle that brings quick income (like buying and selling).

What do you love most about your work?

The fact that I work from home or a coffee shop. The fact that freelancing has built my confidence level as I am my brand and need to always be ready to share what I do.

The fact that I actually make a living doing what I love and I’m naturally good at.

The fact that I don’t wake up bitter and angry because I have to go to work. The fact that I have time now to do other things that I couldn’t before. The fact that Mondays are my off days.

Share a piece of advice with young freelancers 

You’ve got to understand that this is not an easy road. You will be faced with disapproving family/ friends, never satisfied clients, non paying clients, clients who will undermine your skills but I want you to never give up. Rather see this as a stepping stone for where you are going and always aim to exceed clients’
expectations. Always!

Any other additional information that you would like to share with young freelancers?

• Know your worth
• Do not compromise
• Know when to walk away
• Have a system
• Have a rate card

Connect with Naana Joa Braso: njbraso@gmail.com

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