Marisa Louw is a sought after professional freelancer in the marketing, visual- and performing arts industries. As a multi-skilled individual, she is proficient as a writer, integrated marketing strategist, live theatre production- and stage manager, stage producer and -director, graphic- and website designer, makeup artist, actress and singer.
She started her freelance marketing career in 2011 after spending 12 years in corporate and four years at an agency. Also known as 'eM', world-class companies and brands trust her to deliver across various industries like agriculture, finance, engineering, tourism, education, food and beverage, health, manufacturing, wholesale and retail.
After a breast cancer diagnosis in August 2019, she took a two-year sabbatical while recovering from a double mastectomy and chemotherapy. Since she returned to the industry, she has focused on marketing consulting and writing services.
Although Marisa specialises in public relations, she is well-versed in all the elements of the integrated marketing mix. She has been an accredited member of the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA) since 2010. In addition, Marisa has served on the PRISA Gauteng Committee for many years. She is also a member of the Southern African Freelancers' Association (SAFREA) and the International Marketing Association (IMA).
Over the years, Marisa has been a guest on various radio and television shows. She is also an editorial contributor to Bizcommunity, MarkLives, and The Media Online. Occasionally, she hosted the weekly Twitter chat, #PRChatAfrica.
As a training facilitator, Marisa is well-known for her energy and dedication to workshop delegates. She believes that it is crucial to transfer her knowledge to the next generation of marketers.
When she is not consulting or writing, Marisa is actively involved in the performing arts. She made her stage debut as a singer when she was only five years old. After training as a classical singer, Marisa joined the Pretoria State Theatre Opera Chorus in 1994. This is where she met her husband, the now internationally acclaimed tenor Stéfan Louw, back in 1996. Together, they founded two of Gauteng's opera companies and a third in the Free State.
Marisa has a tremendous passion for animals and is involved with various rescue organisations. She recently applied for a general environmental permit and started plans to open a bird rehabilitation centre in Parys in the Free State, where she lives with her husband and 16 pets.
