BrandSpot

Episode 25 - Lucy Balona

In this episode of BrandSpot, I’m joined by Lucy Balona from the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). We explore the vital work CANSA is doing to support individuals and families affected by cancer across South Africa, as the organisation marks an incredible 95 years of impact. We discuss how cancer care has evolved over the decades, what it means for CANSA to be “future-focused”, and how the organisation is expanding its reach through both physical care initiatives and digital platforms. From emotional support to early detection, this conversation highlights the human side of cancer care and the importance of accessible, community-driven services. Tune in as we discuss: * How cancer care in South Africa has changed over the past 95 years and where it’s heading * What CANSA’s “future-focused” approach looks like in practice * Why emotional and practical support are just as critical as medical treatment * The challenges around early detection and what’s preventing more people from getting screened * The role of partnerships in driving meaningful, on-the-ground impact * Practical advice for anyone concerned about cancer and where to start A must-listen for healthcare professionals, non-profit leaders, caregivers, and anyone interested in how organisations are making a tangible difference in the fight against cancer.

Episode 24 - Kelly Hiller & Bailey Leffler

In this episode of BrandSpot, I’m joined by Kelly Hiller, Chief Marketing Officer, and Bailey Leffler, Director of Brand at Purdue University.  We explore how Purdue has built one of the most trusted university brands in the United States and what it takes to sustain that reputation in an increasingly competitive and evolving higher education landscape. We discuss the thinking behind Purdue’s brand strategy, the balance between heritage and innovation, and how trust is cultivated across a diverse and global community of students, alumni, faculty and partners. Tune in as we discuss: * The journey behind Purdue being recognised as the Most Trusted University Brand and what that means for the institution * How Purdue builds and maintains trust across its wide-ranging audiences * The key initiatives and brand decisions that have shaped Purdue’s identity in recent years * How storytelling and positioning help differentiate Purdue in a crowded higher education market * The role of leadership, collaboration and consistency in strengthening brand culture at scale A must-listen for brand leaders, higher education professionals, marketing strategists, and anyone interested in how institutions can build and sustain trust in a rapidly changing world.

Episode 23 - Jhon Parra

In this episode of BrandSpot, I’m joined by Jhon Parra, Leader of Customer Experience in Transformation and Evolution at Protección. We discuss how digital transformation is redefining the company’s channels and the way it serves its customers. We explore the strategic vision behind Protección’s digital evolution, the milestones that have defined its transformation journey, and how the organization is building the infrastructure for a more connected, responsive customer experience. Tune in as we discuss: ∙The origins of Protección’s digital transformation journey and the strategic imperatives that set it in motion ∙How Protección has approached the complexity of transforming established processes and systems at scale ∙The role of leadership and organizational culture in embedding a customer experience mindset throughout digital change A must-listen for digital transformation leaders, financial services professionals, customer experience strategists, and anyone interested in how forward-thinking institutions are building the future of client engagement.

Episode 22 - Kingsley Jackson

In this episode of BrandSpot, I’m joined by Kingsley Jackson, CEO of Gastec, to discuss how innovation in gas technology is shaping energy solutions across Sub-Saharan Africa. We explore Gastec’s recent recognition as “Most Innovative Gas Technology Solution Provider – Sub-Saharan Africa 2025” by Global Brand Magazine, the breakthrough technologies behind that achievement, and how the company balances cutting-edge innovation with safety, reliability, and sustainability in complex markets. Tune in as we discuss: * What the Global Brand Magazine award means for Gastec and its team * The key innovations and technologies driving Gastec’s success * How Gastec navigates infrastructure, regulatory, and local market challenges across Sub-Saharan Africa * The importance of talent development and building local technical capacity * How partnerships and collaborations fuel innovation at scale * Gastec’s vision for the next five years and the future of gas technology A must-listen for energy professionals, infrastructure leaders, innovators, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable energy solutions in emerging markets.

Episode 21 - Abeer El-Leithy

In this episode of BrandSpot, I sit down with Abeer El-Leithy, CEO and co-founder of Momken For Her, to explore how purpose-driven entrepreneurship can unlock opportunity for women at every stage of their careers. We talk about Abeer’s journey from pharmacy and biochemistry into marketing and social enterprise, and how those early experiences shaped her mission to help women return to work, reskill, or start entirely new career paths — regardless of age or background. Tune in as we discuss: * The career pivot that led Abeer from science into entrepreneurship * The moment she realised there was a critical gap in support for women re-entering the workforce * The challenges of building a purpose-led platform — and how Momken For Her overcame them * Real stories of women who rebuilt confidence and careers through the Momken community * Why partnerships are key to scaling impact and creating sustainable change * A powerful message for women who feel it may be “too late” to start again A must-listen for women navigating career transitions, founders building impact-driven businesses, and anyone passionate about inclusive growth and meaningful work.