Campaign’s PR Faces to Watch 2020 – Malaika Fernandes, Account manager, Golin MENA

Campaign’s PR Faces to Watch 2020 – Malaika Fernandes, Account manager, Golin MENA

Age: 27

Venicia Vessoaker, director, Golin MENA: Malaika joined GolinMENA in April 2018 and has consistently demonstrated professionalism and creativity in her work with a calm and poised demeanour. She is a clear strategic thinker, who has a good understanding of her clients’ long-term brand and campaign strategy. Malaika has spearheaded global campaigns, resulting in awards three times in a row. Through successfully created and executed communication strategies, Malaika has contributed to revenue growth in new markets and winning more projects with increased scope. She continues to push the envelope, and is an invaluable asset to GolinMENA.

Career highlights

I began my career in communications six years ago at Genesis BCW in India, with some of the best mentors in the industry. I quickly grew to lead key global accounts like L’Oréal, Gillette and Diageo, creating strategic communication plans and building brand reputation. I also won an award for exemplary all-round performance and client-servicing excellence.

Dubai gave me a solid platform to take my experience to the next level. Today, I represent the Middle East at global client strategy meetings, adding regional perspectives and adapting global plans to suit local markets. I enjoy creating meaningful campaigns that make a difference and we recently won the PRCA MENA Best B2C Campaign Award in 2019.

Guiding principles

To quote Maya Angelou, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour and some style.”

Dream job

I’ve always been interested in understanding people and their personalities. A definite second choice would be a psychologist.

Side hustle

When I was beginning my career I was lucky to receive the right mentorship, which has helped shape my growth. I see it as my responsibility to take that forward and I help mentor young professionals who are starting their careers.

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