Mazuruse wins excellence awards
PASSIONATE creative Takemore Mazuruse of Esteem Communications has bagged two accolades for his consistency and professional conduct working with various brands across sectors.
Mazuruse, who was earlier this year listed in the Institute of Corporate Directors Zimbabwe (ICDZ) Under 40 Most In uential List, won Entrepreneur of the Year Special Recognition for being a vanguard of professional ethics at the Megafest National Business Awards last Wednesday before bagging the Outstanding Public Relations and Corporate A airs Leader award at the Zimbabwe CEO’s Network awards the following day.
Of this recognition, Mazuruse, who started his creative agency as a briefcase consultancy before going all out, said he was humbled and encouraged at the same time.
“I am one person who strongly believes in the potential of the local creative industry,” Mazuruse said.
“I am happy to be recognised for my passion and commitment to the development of this sector.
“Esteem Communications is a professional and structured public relations and advertising agency that has worked with various brands over the years, initially as a briefcase consultancy before going all out and we are happy to be acknowledged in this manner.”
The Zaka-born creative, who rose from humble beginnings, has worked with some of the biggest names and brands, including international organisations, blue chip corporates and big players in the banking and nancial services sector.
“This recognition for me is testimony of the fruits of undying ambition and commitment to one's calling,” Mazuruse said.
With a number of businesses facing viability challenges because of the operational environment, Mazuruse who is an experienced development practitioner and columnist with The Standard said there was need for tact and e ective management of brands if businesses are to survive the "vuzu economy."
“As founder and MD of one of the most exciting creative agencies in Zimbabwe, I believe local businesses should invest in structured and consistent advertising and marketing to aid their brand communication,” he said.
“Beyond providing a service and making sales, your brand really has to stand out so that you are able to last the distance in this environment.
“A good brand must go beyond hype in its brand communication. Employ the whole marketing and brand development mix so that you gain the attention and confidence of the market.”
A majority of local brands are turning to celebrities for influence marketing and brand activation Mazuruse said this was a welcome development, but more still needed to be done.
“Brand development and brand management is quite complex and it is important that businesses do their homework before embarking on any marketing campaign,” he said.
“Influence marketing or influencer marketing is fast becoming a new normal.
“Though good for brand awareness, content creation and improved reach; it must be structured if it is to bring meaningful value to your brand.
“The scope of your influence marketing must be well-thought and coupled with all the key vehicles and enablers of brand development.”
Esteem Communications has won close to 10 accolades for its commitment to excellence and has run professional campaigns for its various clientele.