The Institute of Marketing in Malawi (IMM) successfully hosted its first-ever Women in Marketing Brunch on Saturday, 28th March 2026, at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Ryalls in Blantyre. Held under the theme “Give to Gain” in commemoration of Women’s Month, the event brought together dynamic women in marketing, business, and leadership for a day of insightful conversations, networking, and memorable experiences.
The event was officially opened by IMM President, Mr George Damson, who reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to creating platforms that foster networking, professional growth, and empowerment for women in marketing. He warmly welcomed the keynote speaker, South African author and strategist Nicky Verd, and expressed gratitude to its partners, Vanguard Life Assurance Limited and Platinum Z, at the function.
Keynote Address: Future Ready Woman – Thriving in Disruption
Nicky Verd delivered a powerful and thought-provoking keynote titled “Future Ready Woman: Thriving in Disruption”. Drawing from her personal journey of being laid off to discovering the world of Artificial Intelligence, she encouraged women to take charge of change rather than fear it.
Key highlights from her address included:
• “Whether by circumstance or by deliberate choice, your life will be disrupted.”
• “When you initiate your own disruption, you can control it.”
Nicky emphasised that every industry is being transformed by technology and urged participants not to fear AI, but to embrace it as the new infrastructure for business and innovation.
Insightful Panel Discussion
The keynote was followed by a vibrant panel discussion on “The Complete Woman: Career, Business and Life”, moderated by IMM Director of Income Generation, Nicole Meki. The panel featured three accomplished leaders:
• Thokozani Kamkondo Sande – Managing Director, Airtel Money Malawi
• Lesandra Koreia – Managing Director, Corporate Graphics
• Taleetha Bowler – Marketing & Partner Lead, Mukuru Money Transfer
The panelists shared honest, practical insights drawn from their own experiences. They spoke about balancing multiple roles as women, the importance of results-driven performance, maintaining integrity in business, prioritising health and well-being, and giving full attention to whatever role one is playing at any given moment.
Immersive Experiences
Adding a delightful touch to the day, Wezi Mzumara of Kwanza Cocoa led a 45-minute interactive chocolate tasting session. Participants explored the journey from raw cocoa to finished artisan chocolates and bonbons, including unique Malawian flavours such as kambuzi-infused creations. Wezi inspired many to consider opportunities in cocoa farming and chocolate making.
The day concluded with an engaging session on Personal Branding by Fatrah Kawinga, who shared the key pillars of building a strong personal brand and her own journey of intentional brand evolution.
The first-ever Women in Marketing Brunch was an enjoyable affair, being a day of inspiration, learning, networking, and enjoyment. To every visionary woman who showed up, showed out, and made the first-ever Women in Marketing Brunch truly unforgettable, thank you!