The Advertising Media Forum (AMF) is premised on advancing the advertising media industry through sharing information, oversight and education. A number of its key objectives align with the inaugural Pulse Media Conference to be held on 26 February 2026.
Sandra Gordon spoke with three well-known AMF board members, Koo Govender, Chris Botha and Karen Phelan.
For over three decades the AMF has represented the advertising and media industry with an unfailing commitment to open channels of communication and supporting policies, strategies and transactions. The sector is no stranger to shifting business structures, global interventions and policy changes. Strategic leadership is clearly paramount.
Koo on relevance
Koo is current Chair of the AMF with experience across both the media owner and agency side of things. Her position as Groupe CEO of Publicis Africa provides her with a local and global perspective which she applies to local repositioning.
She has agreed to join the Pulse Media Conference panel which promises to be a highlight session tackling topics including the impact of new technology and the attraction and retention of talented staff – particularly strategists and future leaders. “Our industry needs strong relevant conversations she says bluntly. “Particularly on topics that enable us to stay relevant. We welcome an annual conference of this nature.”
Karen on a new currency
Long standing and tireless AMF Board member Karen Phelan has a reputation for upholding the AMFs promise to function as a conduit of information designed to deliver data of vital importance to media strategy, planning and buying. In other words, a pivot in trading transactions.
“More than ever the industry is facing changes and developments. The new Total Video Measurement which will come into play in 2027 is just one example of a completely new currency. The need to collaborate to create a better understanding of the new dynamics and in turn communicating this understanding to the broader industry is key.”
Chris on the couch with Rassie
Chris Botha is well respected as Group MD of the Park Advertising Group (MediaShop and Meta Media) and remains as a member of the AMF board after handing over the Chair position to Koo. He is considered a significant leader across the sector and admired for his drive and communication skills.
” Pulse Media Leadership is going to be massive; he says forcibly. “It will speak to a bold direction that media is trying – leadership beyond advertising. The conferences headline speakers, Seth Godin, Michael Jordaan and Rassie Erasmus are lobal leaders who we will learn a great deal from.”
Chris will join Rassie Erasmus for a relaxed Pulse Media Conference finale. “I cannot wait to hear what the Good Doctor Rassie has to say. The conference promises to be an event for the ages.”
It would be wise to book your seat today at www.pulsemedialeadership.co.za
About the Pulse Media Leadership Conference
The PULSE Conference is designed to inspire, challenge, and equip forward-thinking media, advertising, and marketing professionals.
MC Aki Anastasio leads a line-up of over 11 well-known speakers including marketing expert and prolific author Seth Godin (streaming live from New York), lauded entrepreneur Michael Jordaan, and the Springbok teams most admired rugby coach Rassie Erasmus (in conversation with Chris Botha Group MD of Park Advertising).
A provocative panel led by Kgaugelo Maphai experienced participants Koo Govender, Jacques Du Preez, Kagiso Musi and Zodwa Vundla, will tackle issues such as media trading, attraction and retention of future leaders and the impact of technology across the media and marketing sector.
www.pulsemedialeadership.co.za for further details and to book tickets.
