In his opening message, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, emphasised the industry's role as a key growth multiplier and the conference's global reach and ability to shine a spotlight on the skills, talent and innovation of this sector, says the conference.

The line up of global leaders from as far afield as Dubai, Accra and London included Charl Bassil, Chief Brand Officer of the BBC. His opening address was a heartfelt call to action for marketers to be brave, be kind and believe in the industry's ability to effect positive change, adds the conference.

Major Mandisa Mfeka, South Africa's first black female combat pilot, received a double standing ovation and inspired marketers to "not be afraid to go against the grain". Her message and many others, highlighting how creative bravery, resilience and integrity are challenging but necessary ingredients to building brands that make a real difference, says the conference.

Jason Quinn, Chief Executive at Nedbank Group Limited and Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive at Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Nedbank Group Limited, engage in an honest and thought provoking discussion around why marketing deserves a seat at the boardroom table; agreeing that bold ideas, brave leadership and authentic connections make marketing a key commercial force, adds the conference. 

Another stand out presentation was from Vaughan Croeser, VP of Marketing at South African Breweries. His very own marketing team's choir performance showcased collective harmony, leaving delegates wowed and proving that, "a team that sings together, wins together," adds the conference.

The conference also featured an industry-first partnership with the SABC, with their GCEO Nomsa Chabeli and SAfm's live broadcast adding to the day's success, says the conference.

According to the conference, industry leaders who presented at the conference also included: 

  • Melusi Mhlungu — Founder and Chief Creative Officer, We Are Bizarre
  • Ryan Sauer — CEO, Redwood Analytics
  • Craig Shapiro — Executive, IP, ENS
  • Bryony Rose — Director, Yext Enterprise International Business
  • Mukona Ligege — Student, AAA School of Advertising
  • Nozizwe Sibisi — Student, University of Johannesburg
  • Micaela Wathen — Student, University of Pretoria
  • Stacy Jayne Saggers — Commercial Growth Director, Insights Division, Kantar
  • Lyn Bird — Corporate Vice President for Industry Solutions Delivery (ISD), Microsoft
  • Dr Gillian Hammah — Chief Marketing Officer, Aya Data
  • Welcome Witbooi — Inspirational Speaker
  • Zubair Timol — Partner and Global Vice President, Culture, Meltwater
  • Dean Oelschig — Founder and Managing Partner, Halo
  • Bridget Harpur — Head of Marketing, VW Group Africa
  • Mbalenhle Bhengu — Founder, Mind Switch and Marketing Lecturer
  • Darren Morris — Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lucky Hustle
  • Preetesh Sewraj — CEO, The Loeries

Registered delegates may access all presentations on the event app for 3 months.

The Nedbank IMC 2026 will take place on 17 September.

The Nedbank IMC is presented in association with MASA, in collaboration with the ACA and is endorsed by the IAB. The 2025 theme was 'Marketing is Business®', concludes the conference.

For more information, visit www.imcconference.com. You can also follow the Nedbank IMC on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor