This collaboration introduces a new wave of AI education and application opportunities for marketers, including access to the MMA Academy, a resource hub for AI-driven marketing innovation, and participation in the MMA's AI Leadership Council (ALC), AAAI and MMA Global say.

The ALC focuses on creating actionable frameworks and insights to help marketers integrate AI effectively and responsibly into their strategies, the duo adds.

"With the unprecedented opportunities that AI offers, our partnership with AAAI is a testament to MMA SA's vision of empowering marketers to lead with innovation, responsibility and measurable impact," says Sarah Utermark, Regional Director of MMA SSA and South Africa.

"Through the MMA Academy, we are building the workforce of the future — armed with tools, strategies and insights to thrive in the ever-evolving marketing landscape," Utermark adds.

The partnership launches with a CMO masterclass, Elevate Your Marketing Game with AI, on Wednesday, 19 February. The session, led by Greg Serandos of AAAI and Francois van der Merwe of Otinga, will provide practical insights on AI integration, governance and tools. A Lunch & Learn webinar on Friday, 21 February, will further empower MMA members and their teams with actionable knowledge on AI's transformative impact, the duo adds.

According to the duo, key partnership highlights include:

  • AI-driven education and MMA Academy access: through the MMA Academy, members gain exclusive access to AAAI's comprehensive programmes, such as Accelerate Marketing Strategy: AI Agents for Persona Mapping and Content Planning, AI strategy, leadership and opportunities and responsible AI: GRC, ethics and policy.
  • Practical frameworks and tools: participants will explore hands-on applications of AI in market research, content creation, measurement and campaign optimisation, fostering innovation and measurable results.
  • Thought Leadership and MMA AI Leadership Council: the MMA's ALC (AI Leadership Coalition) will host ongoing knowledge-sharing initiatives, masterclasses and webinars to create a vibrant community of AI-powered marketers, driving best practices across the region.

"With the growing influence of AI on marketing and business, this partnership aligns with the African Academy of AI's mission to bridge the digital divide in Africa and beyond," says Greg Serandos, CEO of AAAI. 

"Together with MMA Global, we aim to equip marketing professionals with the tools and strategies they need to harness the full potential of AI," Serandos adds.

Vincent Maher, MMA SA Chair Emeritus and ALC Lead, concludes, "AI is not just a tool; it's a catalyst for reimagining the relationship between brands and their audiences. This partnership empowers marketers with the insights and frameworks needed to leverage AI responsibly and effectively, propelling both individual and organisational growth."

For more information, visit www.mmaglobal.com. You can also follow MMA Global on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of Facebook