Symbol of strength for marketing awards

Now known as the Tusk Awards, the annual event showcases the achievements of South Africa's leading marketers and their companies. Top of the list of the Tusk Awards is the IMM Marketer of the Year, presented annually to an individual who has made a strong contribution to his or her organisation through strategic and operational marketing excellence.

In announcing the new theme, Acting Executive Director of the IMM, John Arnesen, said: "The people of Africa regard the elephant with deep reverence and as a spiritual entity. South African poet and spiritual leader, Credo Mutwa tells of a belief in a great rain beast in the complex and beautiful Khoisan mythology. The beast is portrayed as an elephant, with raindrops of white paint all over its body. The Khoisan belief is that if the land is gripped by a drought and people dream of stampeding elephant, rain will fall on the land thus bringing back an abundance of life.

"In much the same way as the powerful and wise elephant symbolises rain and prosperity to the Khoisan, so too does the power of marketing bring to life and create wealth for business. The success of any enterprise, especially in these tough economic times, relies heavily on the strength and wisdom of its marketing effort. Thus it is appropriate that the elephant, symbolised by its tusk, represents the Institute of Marketing Management's annual awards - now renamed the Tusk Awards, which recognises and rewards excellence in marketing."

The Tusk Awards is sponsored by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). Said Mark Jakins, Group Sales & Marketing Director of the SABC, "As the pulse of Africa's creative spirit, the South African Broadcasting Corporation is proud to be a sponsor of the Tusk Awards. There is absolutely no doubt that a solid marketing strategy, implemented correctly, makes a positive impact on bottom line results and is the foundation on which any successful enterprise is built. It is therefore only fitting that we recognise and celebrate innovation and excellence in marketing with these Awards."

This year, three new categories have been added, in the fields of product/service launch, marketing communications, and digital and electronic marketing. A function to recognise the winners of the Awards will be held on Friday 1 November 2002 at Summerplace in Hyde Park, Johannesburg. Reservations can be made by phoning Kim at (011) 784-7804.