Women across the globe redefining marketing leadership through innovation, strategy, and purpose-driven campaigns are in the spotlight as the Women in Marketing (WiM) Awards return for their annual global showcase.

Founded in the United Kingdom, the WiM Awards honour women who leverage marketing as a force for social and economic change. The platform celebrates professionals who push boundaries across continents, from Africa to Europe, and highlights stories of transformation, inclusion, and impact that extend beyond business metrics.

This year’s awards reflect a rising tide of African excellence, with nine women from the continent recognized among the 25 honorees worldwide. Notably, three astute Ghanaian professionals, seasoned fireball Marketer, Brand consultant and Fin-tech professional, Mariam Kaleem Agyeman-Buahin, Dr. Gillian Hammah, Chief Marketing Officer at Aya Data and Venus Tawiah, Agency Lead at Now Available Africa,  among a list of 25 incredible women from around the world, including the UK, the U.S.A, France, South Africa, Romania, and more.

Mariam was shortlisted in the prestigious Change Maker category, reflecting the growing influence and visibility of African women in shaping global marketing trends.

Mariam’s industry impact goes beyond awards. Through her platforms InsiderScoop with Mariam and Savor & Muse, she has mentored more than 200 young creatives and entrepreneurs, championing sustainable growth and creative empowerment across Africa.

“Marketing is the bridge between ideas and impact,” Mariam told WiM. “It’s how we transform creativity into measurable growth and empower people to see the value in what they create.”

Organisers describe WiM as a platform for “those who use their craft to shape industries, uplift communities, and inspire a generation of women leaders.”

This vision has seen honourees,  from marketing executives and agency leads to fintech and creative entrepreneurs, recognized for bridging creativity and commerce, and championing conversations on empowerment, ethics, and sustainability.

The annual showcase continues to honour women whose leadership inspires systemic change, from mentorship initiatives and inclusive teams to campaigns that transcend traditional advertising.

This year’s African shortlist features nine outstanding professionals, each driving impact through ideas, leadership, and innovation deeply connected to the markets and communities they serve.

Gillian Hammah – Chief Marketing Officer, Aya Data – Ghana

 Michelle Marais – Copywriter, Dentsu Creative – South Africa

 Esosa Osagiede - Group Creative Director, Insight Publicis - Nigeria

Andra Nel - Head of Corporate Affairs, KFC Africa – South Africa

Sthando Msweli - Lead Strategist, Matte BLK – South Africa

Khensani Nobanda - Group Executive: Marketing & Corporate Affairs,

Nedbank – South Africa

Venus Tawiah - Agency Lead, Now Available Africa - Ghana

Mariam Kaleem Agyeman-Buahin - Marketer, Brand Consultant & Fintech Professional, Papillon Brands & Marketing Specialists - Ghana

Enniye Timiebi - Consumer Marketing Manager, Spotify – Nigeria.