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IMM Institute Excellence awards

The IMM Institute, through the Excellence Awards, recognises contributions to the industry by bold brands and individuals who displayed thought leadership and commitment to excellence in the arts of marketing and supply chain.

Nominate bold brands and visionary individuals who demonstrated leadership and excellence in 2025!

Three finalists will be selected for each category, and the winner will be announced at the IMM Institute Excellence Awards Dinner on 8 May 2026.

The Excellence Awards is not just a celebration, it’s a moment of inspiration, learning, and growth. This year, we are proud to welcome Pat Mahlangu, an award-winning marketer, media entrepreneur, and industry leader, as our keynote speaker.

IMM Institute Excellence awards

The IMM Institute, through the Excellence Awards, recognises contributions to the industry by bold brands and individuals who displayed thought leadership and commitment to excellence in the arts of marketing, supply chain, and business.

Nominate bold brands and visionary individuals who demonstrated leadership and excellence in 2025!

Three finalists will be selected for each category and the winner will be announced at the IMM Institute Excellence Awards Dinner 2026.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights from one of South Africa’s most influential marketing minds, who brings:

Expert Industry Insights

With 12+ years of experience in marketing and media, Pat will share powerful strategies for brand growth, PR, and digital excellence.

Youth Empowerment & Industry Leadership

With 12+ years of experience in marketing and media, Pat will share powerful strategies for brand growth, PR, and digital excellence.

Entrepreneurial Success & Innovation

Founder of leading PR and digital creative agency helping businesses build lasting brand connections.

Academic & Thought Leadership

A former lecturer at UJ and Boston Media House and co-author of The Book Every Marketer Should Most Definitely Read, Pat brings cutting-edge knowledge and practical insights.

Award-Winning Recognition

Recognised as the IMM Institute’s 2003 Emerging Marketer of the Year and one of Sunday World’s Unsung Heroes in Entrepreneurship, Pat’s journey is one of impact, resilience, and success.

8 May | 19:00 | The Venue, Melrose Arch

Book Now
Book Now

Reserve Your Front-Row Seat to
Industry Excellence

The IMM Institute Excellence Awards is not just a celebration, it’s a moment of inspiration, learning, and growth. This year, we are, once again, proud to welcome Govan Whittles as the event’s Master of Ceremonies. Join us for an evening of insight, recognition, and celebration! 

Our Esteemed Media Partners Shining the Spotlight on the IMM Institute Excellence Awards

Booking Fee: R1650

Associates of the IMM Institute can attend the Awards Gala Dinner at discounted rates: 

Bronze: 5%

Silver: 10%

Gold: 20%

Platinum: 30%

THE EXCELLENCE Awards Judges

Thobekile Nxumalo

Head of Supply Chain at Iqbusiness
A seasoned professional with exceptional expertise in shaping national supply chain strategies and conducting operational readiness assessments.
Read Bio

Ronald Mlalazi

Managing Director at Commerce Edge
An accomplished procurement professional who has attained the prestigious Fellow status at the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).
Read Bio

Brad Watridge

Senior Partner, Marketing & Sales Strategist at Hot Mustard Africa
Brad Watridge is a published co-author and senior partner in a group of companies, passionate about exploring success stories across Southern Africa, supporting SMMEs, and blending strategic creativity with integrity to drive business and personal growth
Read Bio
Angela Barter

Angela Barter

Founder: The PR Agency
Angela Barter is a sustainability communication strategist with over 25 years of experience in public relations and environmental communication. She holds an MPhil in Environmental Management from Stellenbosch University and is a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP).
Read Bio
Dr Elaine van Wyk

Dr Elaine van Wyk

Group Chief Marketing Officer: UXi Private Education
Dr Elaine Van Wyk is a seasoned professional who demonstrates expertise in achieving sales growth and increasing company turnover and profitability by positioning brands through innovative strategy development and implementation. She holds a DBA and an MBA from the University of Melbourne.
Read Bio

Kayla Freitas

Founder: CO.DE
Kayla Freitas is a Senior CX Strategist and founder of CO.DE, a digital studio focused on building consumer-led strategies that drive measurable business and cultural impact. Her work sits at the intersection of insight, creativity, and digital execution, translating deep audience understanding into campaigns that shift brand perception and deliver tangible growth.
Read Bio

Lebogang Letsoalo

CEO: Sincpoint
Lebogang Letsoalo is a supply chain, transport, and logistics advocate, speaker, thought leader, global supply chain coach, and CEO of Sincpoint. With 25 years of experience across end‑to‑end supply chains, she has held various leadership roles and serves on multiple boards and trusts.
Read Bio

Dr Clarissa Muir

Manager: Professional Programmes, UXi
Dr Clarissa Muir is a specialist in strategic communication, branding, and sustainability. She has lectured as a fulltime academic at the University of Johannesburg, the University of Pretoria, and Vega School, teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Read Bio

Kagiso Lerutla

Managing Director: Gutterlamp (Pty) Ltd
Kagiso is a seasoned marketing professional with over 12 years’ experience delivering impactful solutions for clients across East and Southern Africa. He holds a Diploma in Integrated Brand Communications from Vega School of Brand Leadership and began his career at Halo Advertising, where he quickly established himself as a key contributor within the East African financial services sector.
Read Bio

Lethabo Sekhu

Co-founder and COO at Credipple
An experienced architect with a strong background in the marketing and advertising industry, Lethabo is a professional in guiding projects from conceptualisation to execution and post-production.
Read Bio

Nominations are Open!

View Awards 2026 Brochure
Submit Your Nomination

Award Nomination deadline: 31 March 2026

Award Nomination deadline:
31 March 2026

Marketing Excellence Awards

Marketing
Excellence Awards

Marketing Student
of the Year

Acknowledging the outstanding achievements of marketing students who are the future of our industry.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Emerging Marketer
of the Year

Recognising the rising star in marketing who has shown exceptional promise and potential.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Marketer
of the Year

Celebrating the individual marketer who has demonstrated excellence in their field.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Corporate Marketing Team of the Year

Honouring the collaborative efforts of a high-performing marketing team within a corporation.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Lifetime Achievement
MArketing Award

Celebrating a seasoned professional's lifelong contribution to the marketing industry.

Winner will be announced
at the Awards

See Criteria
See Finalists

Supply Chain Excellence Awards

Supply Chain
Excellence Awards

Supply Chain Student
of the Year

Acknowledging the outstanding achievements of supply chain students who are the future of our industry.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Supply Chain Professional
of the Year

Celebrating the individual who has demonstrated excellence in the supply chain industry.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Corporate Supply Chain Team of the Year

Honouring the collaborative efforts of a high-performing supply chain team within a corporation.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Lifetime Achievement
Supply Chain Award

Celebrating a seasoned professional's lifelong contribution to the supply chain industry.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Emerging
Supply Chain Practitioner Award

Celebrates an early-career professional showing outstanding potential, innovation, and leadership in advancing modern, ethical, and efficient supply chain practice.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Business Excellence Awards

Business
Excellence Awards

Entrepreneur
of the Year

Celebrating the individual who has demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence in the business world.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Sustainability Impact
Award

Honours individuals, teams, or organisations that embed sustainability and social responsibility into their marketing or supply chain practices, creating meaningful and measurable ESG impact.

See Criteria
See Finalists

Best Integrated Marketing & Supply Chain Initiative
of the Year

Recognises exceptional collaboration between marketing and supply chain functions that delivers measurable business results through innovative, cross-functional strategy and execution.

See Criteria
View Awards 2026 Brochure
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See 2025 Winners & Finalists
See 2023 Winners & Finalists

Thobekile Nxumalo's Bio

Thobekile Nxumalo is a seasoned supply chain professional with over a decade of experience in driving impactful projects across diverse industries. Currently leading key initiatives at a management consulting firm, she began her career as a solution analyst, collaborating with supply chain and design teams to develop innovative solutions. Her expertise spans regional logistics, warehouse optimization, and integrated supply chain strategies, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

As a technical advisor on national supply chain strategies, Thobekile has played a pivotal role in transformative projects, particularly within the public healthcare sector. Her contributions extend across Africa, where she has led strategic initiatives that deliver measurable value. With a deep commitment to excellence and a talent for navigating complex challenges, she brings a wealth of knowledge and industry insight to the IMM Institute Excellence Awards judging panel.

See LinkedIn Profile

Ronald Mlalazi's Bio

As an accomplished procurement professional, Ronald holds an MBA from Mancosa and a Master’s degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management from South Wales University (UK). With a career dedicated to advancing the field of procurement, Ronald has served as the CIPS Congress Representative for Africa for six years, actively contributing to the professional development of procurement practitioners across the continent.

His impact extends beyond professional organisations, as he has significantly contributed to academic and industry advancements. He has also developed curriculum frameworks for leading institutions like the Da Vinci Institute and Stellenbosch Business School, shaping the next generation of procurement leaders.

Ronald’s expertise is highly sought by government entities, where he has presented on key industry topics to senior officials, emphasising the strategic importance of supply chain management in economic development.

See LinkedIn Profile

Brad Watridge's Bio

With over 27 years of experience, Brad Watridge is passionate about uncovering diverse success stories across Southern Africa. He works strategically with businesses of all sizes, with a strong focus on B2B and championing the growth of SMMEs. Committed to driving business growth and personal development, he upholds integrity and firmly opposes superficial displays and corruption.

 

As a senior partner in a group of companies, Brad actively supports initiatives that foster the success and sustainability of SMMEs. He advocates for a balance between innovation and the art of storytelling in business, ensuring meaningful and lasting impact.

See LinkedIn Profile

Angela Barter

Angela Barter is a sustainability communication strategist and founder of The PR Agency, with over 25 years’ experience in public relations and environmental communication. She holds an MPhil in Environmental Management from Stellenbosch University and is a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP). Angela specialises in translating complex sustainability issues into clear, credible communication that aligns with organisational action. She has advised organisations across sectors, spoken at global forums, and contributed to leading industry publications. An award-winning professional and experienced judge, she also lectures postgraduate students, bringing a strong focus on sustainability credibility, strategy, and impact.

See LinkedIn Profile

Dr Elaine van Wyk

With a Doctorate in Business Administration, where she was recognised as Valedictorian, and an MBA from the University of Melbourne, graduating on the highest achievement level possible, Dr Elaine Van Wyk combines academic excellence with extensive real-world experience.

Dr Van Wyk is reputed for delivering key insights that optimise marketing programmes and campaign performance while driving strong marketing strategies resulting in exceptional lead management and sales enablement. She is a self-directed and creative thinker committed to bringing innovative ideas to the table, resolving associated problems, and devising new ways to improve results. 

Her research on integrated digital marketing in South Africa’s MSME sector further reveals her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s evolving digital landscape. Dr Van Wyk’s expertise in harnessing digital tools and her commitment to empowering teams make her an invaluable voice in the discussion on how Africa is redefining its digital future!

See LinkedIn Profile

Kayla Freitas

Kayla Freitas, a Senior CX Strategist and founder of CO.DE, a digital studio, specialises in consumer-led strategies that drive measurable business and cultural impact. Her work sits at the intersection of data, psychology, and creativity, translating deep audience insight into campaigns that shift brand perception and deliver tangible growth. Known for engineering relevance at scale, she combines rigorous research with culturally attuned execution to ensure brands not only reach audiences but also resonate with them. 

She has led strategy for brands including Telkom, Diageo, Visa, Tiger Brands, LEGO, and Samsung. Her work spans positioning, go-to-market strategy, and full-funnel digital ecosystems, with a strong focus on translating insight into real-world performance. 

See LinkedIn Profile

Lebogang Letsoalo

Lebogang Letsoalo is a supply chain, transport, and logistics advocate, thought leader, global supply chain coach, and CEO of Sincpoint. With 25 years of experience across endtoend supply chains, she has held senior leadership roles and serves on multiple boards and trusts. 

She supports organisations in optimising and building sustainable supply chains through capacity and skills development, and has extensive experience in developing entrepreneurs across the road, rail, maritime, and aviation sectors. Her work also includes supporting organisations with regional and global market access. 

Committed to driving meaningful impact, Lebogang founded the African Women in Supply Chain Association (AWISCA), a nonprofit organisation focused on advancing mentorship, diversity, and inclusion in procurement, logistics, and transport industries for youth, women, entrepreneurs, and professionals. 

Her achievements include being a multiaward winner and receiving global recognition, including being ranked among the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Supply Chain worldwide (No. 20). Through her advocacy, she has launched initiatives such as the Top 100 Women in Supply Chain in Africa, the Supply Chain Women Awards, and the Transport Pledge, and has mentored and coached more than 400 women across the African transport sector. 

 

See LinkedIn Profile

Dr Clarissa Muir

Dr Clarissa Muir is a specialist in strategic communication, branding, and sustainability. She has lectured as a fulltime academic at the University of Johannesburg, the University of Pretoria, and Vega School, teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

Her research focuses on sustainability communication, with a strong emphasis on the role of brand purpose within sustainability strategy. This includes expertise in strategic communication, branding, and stakeholder engagement. 

In addition to her academic work, Dr Muir has extensive experience in corporate training and workshop facilitation for brands. Much of this work has involved programme development and the accreditation of qualifications with professional bodies, bridging academic rigour with industry application. 

 

See LinkedIn Profile

Kagiso Lerutla

Kagiso is a seasoned marketing professional with over 12 years’ experience delivering impactful solutions for clients across East and Southern Africa. He holds a Diploma in Integrated Brand Communications from Vega School of Brand Leadership and began his career at Halo Advertising, where he quickly established himself as a key contributor within the East African financial services sector. 

As Account Manager on the Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA) portfolio, Kagiso oversaw brand strategy and execution across five East African markets as well as Côte d’Ivoire. During this time, he played an instrumental role in the development and growth of pioneering financial brands such as CBA LOOP and M-Shwari (a product of M-PESA), both of which have become synonymous with innovation in the region. His work has been recognised internationally, earning a Cannes Lions shortlist and multiple Loerie Awards. 

In 2018, Kagiso founded Gutterlamp, a strategy-led out-of-home (OOH) media business focused on connecting brands with mass and underserved audiences. Today, he continues to drive this vision, leveraging iconic and tactical OOH assets across key commuter hubs and remote areas in South Africa to bring leading brands closer to the people. 

See LinkedIn Profile

Lethabo Sekhu's Bio

Lethabo Sekhu is the Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at Credipple, bringing a wealth of experience in marketing, advertising, and event execution. He has a proven track record of successfully
managing BTL campaigns, experiential events, and brand activations.

Before co-founding Credipple in 2017, Lethabo served as an Event Producer at SPACE.™, a leading through-the-line (TTL) advertising and media company. In this role, he executed high-impact campaigns
and experiential events for prestigious luxury brands, including BMW, MINI, Montblanc, IWC, Audi, Roger Dubuis, and Tom Ford.

See LinkedIn Profile