According to IZEA chairperson and chief executive officer Ted Murphy, Africa is a largely untapped market; but with a population of 780 million, it is undeniable that socially-native young adults are presenting the opportunity to tap into this growing segment.

"Consumers across Africa are looking to their peers and influencers across digital platforms more than ever," Murphy says. "With this, influencer marketing is a critical component for brands to have success."

"HaveYouHeard has the capabilities to drive brand growth and market penetration throughout the continent. Having access to this rapidly growing, innovative country is central to Influence+United's mission," adds Murphy.

The Influence+United alliance seeks to take the stress of globalisation and streamline the entire executional journey — from proposal to results — for the world's foremost companies. It serves as the easiest way to execute a unified influencer marketing campaign with leaders who are localised in presence, but global in scope.

"HaveYouHeard was acknowledged as one of the 10 most innovative companies in Africa by Fast Company. By combining online and offline influence with a full digital, content production and behavioural economics service, it is ideally equipped to assist IZEA expand the alliance's presence in African markets," says Ryan McFadyen, co-founder and head of strategy at HaveYouHeard. 

"As global companies look for additional growth areas, Africa is increasingly becoming a focus. Providing a deep understanding of the diverse culture and communities across the continent is central to success and we are incredibly excited and honoured to be adding our skillset to the Influence+United alliance," McFadyen concludes.

For more information, visit www.haveyouheard.co.za. You can also follow HaveYouHeard on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram