Evolve Group Africa is poised to orchestrate the third iteration of the grandiose Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards (UMEAS) – an illustrious affair slated for December 1st at the opulent Kampala Serena Hotel.

The UMEAS gala vows to outshine its predecessors, boasting an unprecedented influx of submissions from the upper echelons of Kampala’s corporate hierarchy. The imminent revelation of this year’s finalists, scheduled for next week, is eagerly anticipated, given the remarkable surge in entries.

A staggering tally of over 200 submissions has poured in, emanating from more than 50 of Uganda’s preeminent brands. Among the contributors are the crème de la crème, encompassing eminent banks, leading telecom giants, top-tier fast-moving consumer goods brands, and preeminent marketing and creative agencies, among others.

Contrary to the perception that these awards are exclusive to well-established corporations, smaller enterprises have also thrown their hats into the ring, vying for coveted nominations in various categories. However, the entries must undergo meticulous scrutiny, adhering to stringent criteria, to distil a final roster of nominees.

This onerous task has been entrusted to a select panel of six esteemed jurors, distinguished by their leadership acumen, contributions to the profession, wealth of experience, and academic qualifications.

Tasked not only with overseeing the entire nomination process but also adjudicating the winners across six special award categories, this jury epitomizes professionalism, credibility, transparency, and fairness.

The distinguished panel comprises Dr Benedict Mugerwa, Head of Professional Marketing Courses at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI); Ngulumi Immaculate Nabatte, Chief Manager of Marketing and Branding at Centenary Bank; John Paul Okwi, Senior Manager of 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.

As the anticipation for the award nominations intensifies, the jury diligently concludes assessments to narrow down the list of finalists. Some will face public vote scrutiny, while others will rely solely on the jury’s discernment. The gala night promises to be the grand stage for announcing all the deserving winners.

Top-tier brands are poised to engage in fierce competition across 12 categories, featuring three new additions this year. Corporate tables for the event are priced at 2 million shillings, individual tickets at 100,000 shillings, and CIM students enjoy a discounted rate of Ugx 75,000.

For those eager to partake in this prestigious occasion, tickets can be secured by reaching out to 0703115242 or 0772358292.

The UMEAS 2023 edition is generously sponsored by 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.