By Frank KamuntuÂ
Evolve Group Africa is poised to orchestrate the third iteration of the prestigious Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards (UMEAS) at a resplendent red carpet, black-tie gala scheduled for December 1st at the Kampala Serena Hotel. Anticipation abounds as this UMEAS gala vows to surpass its predecessors, having garnered the highest influx of entries from Kampala’s foremost corporate entities. The culmination of this anticipation awaits next week with the impending revelation of this year’s finalists.
A staggering number exceeding 200 entries, representing over 50 of Uganda’s preeminent brands, have been submitted for meticulous consideration. The participants encompass a distinguished echelon, featuring top-tier banks, leading telecommunications enterprises, eminent fast-moving consumer goods brands, and illustrious marketing and creative agencies, among other luminaries.
Contrary to the presumption that these accolades are exclusively the domain of established conglomerates, a noteworthy inclusion comprises small and medium-sized brands, emphasizing a democratized platform for recognition. Nonetheless, the rigorous scrutiny of entries, guided by stringent criteria, is underway to distill a final roster of nominees.
This arduous responsibility currently rests in the capable hands of a judicious six-member jury, comprising esteemed industry professionals meticulously selected based on leadership acumen, contributions to the profession, experience, and academic qualifications. This distinguished panel not only oversees the entire nomination process but also wields the authority to designate winners in the six specialized categories of the awards.
As the unveiling of award nominations approaches, the jury meticulously concludes assessments to narrow down a list of finalists. Some will undergo public scrutiny through voting, while others will be adjudicated solely by the jury. The grand unveiling of all winners is reserved for the gala night, adding an extra layer of suspense and intrigue.
The selection of the jury was a deliberate move to ensure the professionalization, credibility, transparency, and fairness of the entire process. The eminent jurors include Dr. Benedict Mugerwa, Head of Professional Marketing Courses at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI); Ngulumi Immaculate Nabatte, Chief Manager Marketing and Branding at Centenary Bank; John Paul Okwi, Senior Manager Events and Sponsorships at MTN Uganda; Rogers Anguzu, Commercial Director at Crown Beverages Limited; Barbara Arimi, Head of Marketing and Communications at NSSF; and Jackie Namara Rukare, CEO of Iguru Consult Limited.
In a keenly contested affair, top-notch brands will vie for honors in 12 categories, with three newly introduced categories adding a layer of novelty to the proceedings. Attendance to this esteemed event commands a corporate table investment of 2 million shillings, while individual tickets are priced at 100,000 shillings. CIM students enjoy a discounted rate of Ugx 75,000.
According to the organizers, those eager to partake in this opulent event, tickets can be secured through booking at 0703115242/0772358292. The UMEAS 2023 edition is graciously sponsored by a consortium of influential entities, including Uganda Breweries Ltd, I&M Bank Uganda, National Social Security Fund, Uganda Development Bank, Wango App, Pepsi, Kadanke Brand House, Centenary Bank, Radiocity, Equity Bank, Matooke Republic, Daily Monitor, Spark TV, and NTV Uganda.
