NICO GROUP PROJECT ATSOGOLERI FROM STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT TO EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING BY MIRAGE PR

8th April, 2026

Client: NICO Group

Assignment: Event Management and Experiential Marketing

Solutions: On 8 April 2026, NICO Group hosted Members of Parliament at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe for Project Atsogoleri, a tailored dinner experience designed to strengthen stakeholder relationships and showcase the financial solutions available across the NICO Group. The event provided a platform for Members of Parliament to explore how NICO’s diverse business units could support their work and contribute to national development. Mirage PR played a central role in shaping the experience, from concept development and creative design to event ambience, branding and coordination, transforming a formal stakeholder engagement into an interactive corporate experience.

Guests began arriving at 5:00 PM and were welcomed into a professionally branded event space featuring interactive booths representing NICO Group’s business units. Before the formal programme commenced, Members of Parliament had the opportunity to engage directly with the teams and learn more about the products and services available across the Group. Following the arrival of the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Sameer Suleman, MP, Dr. Kwanele Ngwenya, NICO Group Chief Operating Officer, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of tailored financial solutions in supporting Members of Parliament and their constituencies during the dinner as guests continued networking.

Highlights

  • Strategic event concept and design: Mirage PR developed the event atmosphere and visual presentation around the purpose of Project Atsogoleri, creating a professional setting for meaningful engagement between NICO Group and Members of Parliament.
  • Interactive product and service showcases: Branded booths representing NICO Group’s business units gave guests direct access to the sales teams, allowing them to explore the Group’s diverse financial and insurance solutions.
  • Corporate event management and coordination: Mirage PR supported the programme flow and on-site requirements, helping ensure the different event elements worked together smoothly. The organizing team responded promptly to challenges, supporting continuity throughout the evening.
  • Stakeholder engagement through experience: The combination of executive presentations, interactive booths, question-and-answer discussions and networking helped communicate NICO Group’s value in a setting that encouraged direct engagement.

Project Atsogoleri demonstrates Mirage PR’s capabilities in corporate event management, experiential marketing, creative design and stakeholder engagement in Malawi. By combining concept development with branded environments, interactive touchpoints and programme coordination, Mirage PR helped create an experience that went beyond a traditional corporate dinner. The event gave NICO Group an opportunity to communicate its diverse offerings while building stronger connections with an important stakeholder audience.

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HOW MIRAGE PR TURNED OLD MUTUAL’S EXECUTIVE GOLF DAY 2026 INTO A PREMIUM BRAND EXPERIENCE

1st August, 2026

Client: Old Mutual Malawi

Assignment: Event Management, Event Coordination, Experiential Marketing, Creative Design

Solution: On 1 August 2026, Old Mutual hosted its Executive Golf Day 2026 under the theme “Tee Off to THRIVE,” bringing together stakeholders and partners for a day of golf, networking and meaningful engagement. Designed to strengthen business relationships while showcasing Old Mutual’s diverse financial services solutions, the tournament provided an opportunity to connect with stakeholders beyond the traditional corporate setting. Mirage PR played a key role in shaping the event experience through strategic event coordination, creative branding and engaging on-course activations, ensuring that the THRIVE campaign was reflected throughout the tournament.

The tournament followed the Mexican Scramble format, with golfers arriving from 7:00 AM ahead of the ceremonial tee-off at 8:00 AM and the official shotgun start at 8:30 AM. Beyond the competition, golfers enjoyed interactive brand experiences at Hole 3, featuring Gala Macs and Hole 6, showcasing Old Mutual’s business units. The THRIVE Lounge at the midway point offered a premium hospitality experience with refreshments, comfortable seating and spa services, giving golfers an opportunity to relax and recharge during play. The day concluded with a prize presentation beneath branded cabana tents, creating an elegant setting for celebrating the winners and recognising the valued partners who contributed to the event.

Highlights

  • Strategic event branding: Mirage PR coordinated branding across key areas, including the registration area, car park, entrance, tee-off points and midway, strengthening Old Mutual’s brand visibility throughout the venue.
  • Experiential marketing activations: Interactive experiences at Hole 3 and Hole 6 encouraged golfers to engage with the brands and enjoy refreshments, snacks and photo opportunities beyond the game itself.
  • Premium hospitality experience: The THRIVE Lounge offered comfortable seating, refreshments and spa services, adding a distinctive touch to the tournament and enhancing the overall guest experience.
  • Corporate event coordination: From the golfer arrival and tournament flow to the branded prize presentation, the event brought together competition, hospitality and stakeholder engagement in one cohesive experience.

Through its work on the Old Mutual Executive Golf Day 2026, Mirage PR demonstrated its capabilities in corporate event management, experiential marketing, event branding and stakeholder engagement in Malawi. By combining creative thinking with strategic coordination, Mirage PR helped extend the tournament beyond the golf course, creating opportunities for meaningful connections and memorable brand interactions. This reflects Mirage PR’s approach to delivering corporate events that connect people, communicate brand value and support client objectives where Creativity Meets Strategy and Efficiency Meets Appeal.

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FROM OFFICIAL LAUNCH TO ELEGANT NETWORKING: HOW MIRAGE PR DELIVERED AMCHAM MALAWI’S LAUNCH AND NICO NIGHT

25th August, 2026

Client: NICO Group & American Chamber of Commerce in Malawi (AMCHAM)

Assignment: Event Coordination, Event Management, Creative Design

Solutions: On 25 August 2026, the American Chamber of Commerce in Malawi (AMCHAM) officially launched its Malawi Chapter, marking an important moment for strengthening commercial relationships between Malawi and the United States. On the same evening, NICO Group hosted a NICO Night cocktail reception in honour of AMCHAM and its stakeholders. Mirage PR was responsible for the event management, coordination and creative execution of both occasions, bringing together formal business proceedings and an elegant networking experience. Through strategic planning, event branding, guest registration and programme coordination, Mirage PR ensured that each event reflected its purpose.

The AMCHAM launch commenced at 5:00 PM with digital guest registration on the events portal, one of the services Mirage PR offers for seamless guest registration and check-in, followed by opening remarks from Ryan Scharar, President of FCA Corp and Vice President of Africap. Rob Scharar, Founder and CEO of FCA Corp and President of Africap, delivered a keynote address tracing the history of NICO, BHL and Africap. The programme also featured the induction of the American Chamber Trustees and remarks from Melania Arreaga, US Chargé d’Affaires, on strengthening US–Malawi commercial ties. Mirage PR coordinated the event environment and programme elements, including the stage presentation, American and Malawian flags, branded arch, photo booth and guest arrival experience, which featured a saxophonist playing subtle tunes. The launch proceedings concluded at 6:40 PM.

Guests then transitioned to the poolside garden at Ryalls Hotel for the NICO Night Cocktail Reception, where Mirage PR’s creative design and event coordination helped establish an elegant and inviting atmosphere. Following the MC’s welcome, Vizenge Kumwenda, NICO Group Managing Director, highlighted the importance of forging meaningful partnerships. From 7:30 PM, guests enjoyed networking, quality food, an open bar and live music featuring a blend of golden classics and local favourites. Branded gift bags were presented to guests as they departed, providing a thoughtful close to the evening. Through careful attention to event branding, entertainment and programme flow, Mirage PR helped create an environment that encouraged connections and reinforced the occasion’s focus on partnership.

Highlights

  • End-to-end event management: Mirage PR coordinated two connected corporate events in one evening, managing programme flow, on-site requirements and the transition from the formal AMCHAM launch to the NICO Night cocktail reception.
  • Creative event branding and design: The AMCHAM launch featured a well-presented stage, American and Malawian flags, a branded arch and a photo booth. At NICO Night, elegant event branding transformed the poolside garden into an inviting networking environment.
  • Seamless guest registration: Mirage PR supported digital registration helping streamline guest arrival and event access.
  • Premium guest experience: A saxophonist welcomed guests at the AMCHAM launch, while a live band at NICO Night delivered a mix of golden oldies, contemporary hits and local music.
  • Strategic programme coordination: Effective coordination helped keep both programmes on track while ensuring requirements and on-site needs were addressed efficiently.
  • Business networking and stakeholder engagement: The two events provided complementary platforms for formal engagement, partnership-building and relationship development among business leaders, stakeholders and invited guests.

Through the AMCHAM Malawi launch and NICO Night, Mirage PR showed its expertise in corporate event management, creative design, event branding and stakeholder engagement in Malawi. Managing two distinct experiences within one evening required strategic coordination, creative execution and attention to detail. By aligning the event environments, programme requirements and guest experiences with the objectives of each occasion, Mirage PR helped deliver a successful international launch of the AMCHAM, a bond between Malawi traders and the United States of America market. 

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MIRAGE PR TRANSFORMS OLD MUTUAL’S THRIVE TOGETHER CAMPAIGN INTO A MEANINGFUL COUPLES EXPERIENCE

 

23rd July, 31st July 2026 

Client: Old Mutual Malawi

Assignment: Event Management, Event Coordination, Experiential Marketing, Creative Design

Solutions: On 23 July in Lilongwe and 31 July in Blantyre, Old Mutual Malawi hosted exclusive client dinners under the theme “THRIVE Together: Partners for Life,” bringing together existing and prospective clients for an experience centered on partnership, shared financial decisions and building a stronger future together. Rather than creating a traditional investment event, the experience encouraged guests to attend with their partners and explore how financial decisions can shape the people and families closest to them.

Behind the experience was Mirage PR, a strategic and creative communications agency in Malawi with expertise in event management, experiential marketing, creative design and corporate event coordination. Mirage PR translated the THRIVE Together concept into an immersive guest journey, developing and coordinating the interactive experiences, event branding, digital elements, programme flow and overall event environment.

The experience began before guests even arrived. Each couple received a unique key enclosed in a branded box, symbolising their invitation to the evening and the shared journey they were about to experience. Each key carried a number that was later used to guide guests to their designated seating, turning the invitation into an extension of the event concept rather than simply an RSVP tool.

Upon arrival, guests were welcomed into the THRIVE Together interactive experience, featuring five specially designed booths: Shared Dreams, Shared Decisions, Shared Seasons, Shared Foundations and Shared Legacy. Each touchpoint encouraged couples to reflect on their goals, financial decisions, life experiences and aspirations for the future.

This is where Mirage PR’s experiential marketing approach brought the theme to life. Instead of simply telling guests about the importance of financial planning, the agency helped create opportunities for couples to actively participate in the conversation. QR codes connected each booth to digital questions and scenarios, encouraging couples to discuss how they would approach different financial and life situations together as later the evening then transitioned into the formal programme.

For Mirage PR, event management is about creating an experience where every element has a purpose. From the branded key invitation and interactive booths to digital integration, customized menus, décor, entertainment and programme coordination, each element was designed to support the central THRIVE Together message. The result was an event experience that encouraged couples to connect, participate and think about their financial journeys together. 

Highlights

  • Two-city experiential campaign delivered in Lilongwe and Blantyre under the “THRIVE Together: Partners for Life” theme.
  • Creative key invitation experience that introduced the event concept before guests even arrived.
  • Five interactive THRIVE Together booths designed around shared dreams, decisions, seasons, foundations and legacy.
  • Digital integration through QR codes and Google Forms, creating a seamless interactive experience for couples.
  • Experiential marketing used to turn financial conversations into meaningful couple-to-couple interactions.
  • Creative event branding and décor that created an elegant and personalized environment.
  • Media management and coordination, with event coverage and articles shared with the client within the agreed timelines.

Mirage PR: Creating Experiences That Mean More

The “THRIVE Together: Partners for Life” experience reflects Mirage PR’s approach of Creativity Meets Strategy, Efficiency Meets Appeal. With strategic and creative communications expertise, Mirage PR develops innovative, results-oriented solutions that help brands communicate with audiences in more meaningful ways.

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NICO General Sponsors the 2026 SARPCCO Conference, the Region’s Biggest Security Event Managed by Mirage PR

 

 

10-12 June 2026

Client: NICO General

Assignment: Public Relations and Event Management, Experiential Marketing

Solution: When police chiefs and security leaders from across Southern Africa came to Lilongwe for the 2026 SARPCCO Conference, NICO General Insurance was there as a sponsor, with Mirage PR  an event management and experiential marketing agency in Malawi, managing how the brand showed up at every stage of the programme.

The Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Co-operation Organization (SARPCCO) Conference is one of the region’s most significant security gatherings. It brought together senior law enforcement leaders, government representatives and stakeholders from across the SADC region to strengthen collaboration against cross-border crime and advance regional security.

The work covered strategic brand positioning, event branding execution and media coordination. The aim was for NICO General’s presence to make an impact and to match its commitment to safety, resilience and sustainable development across the region.

SARPCCO Technical Organs Meetings: Visibility from Day One

The programme opened with the SARPCCO Technical Organs Meetings from 8 to 10 June 2026. Delegates discussed regional security challenges and joint solutions. Mirage PR kept NICO General’s branding consistent across these sessions and created openings for stakeholder engagement and positive media exposure.

The NICO General Private Dinner: Dialogue on Regional Security

On 10 June 2026, NICO General hosted an exclusive Private Dinner. Senior executives from NICO General, representatives of the wider NICO Group and regional security leaders attended. The conversation covered emerging security risks, the importance of regional cooperation and the role of strategic partnerships in building safer communities and economies.

The 31st SARPCCO Annual General Meeting at the Bingu International Convention Centre

The conference reached its peak at the 31st SARPCCO Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on 11 and 12 June 2026 at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe. Ceremonial parades and high-level engagements marked the official opening. NICO General’s sponsorship put the company at the center of the conversations on security, resilience and regional cooperation.

African-Themed Gala Dinner: Celebrating the Conference

The conference closed on 12 June 2026 with an African-themed Gala Dinner, where delegates celebrated the conference and the continent’s cultural heritage. Carefully curated branding and visibility opportunities kept NICO General prominent throughout the evening and reinforced its reputation as a trusted partner committed to protecting people, businesses and communities.

Highlights of the Campaign

  • SARPCCO conference branding in Lilongwe: Comprehensive branding and visibility management across every conference touchpoint kept the NICO General brand strong and consistent.
  • Public relations for a regional security conference: Strategic PR support with pre event interviews and online articles to help place NICO General alongside the key conversations on regional security, cooperation and resilience.
  • NICO General Private Dinner: A well-executed evening for high-level stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
  • NICO Group representation: Strong Group presence, with NBS Bank providing banking support and services to delegates throughout the conference.
  • Gala Dinner branding in Malawi: High-impact branding at the African-themed Gala Dinner created memorable brand experiences for delegates and stakeholders.
  • Event photography and videography: Professional coverage captured key moments, engagements and brand activations across the conference.
  • Media coverage in Malawi and the SADC region: Extensive traditional and digital coverage raised visibility for both NICO General and the SARPCCO Conference.
  • Insurance brand positioning in Southern Africa: NICO General’s standing was strengthened as a trusted insurer supporting safer, more secure and resilient communities across the SADC region.
  • Multi-stakeholder event management: Smooth coordination between government institutions, conference organizers and NICO Group representatives delivered every event requirement.

The Result

Across five days, from the Technical Organs Meetings to the Gala Dinner, NICO General stayed visible in the region’s most important security conversations. The project showed Mirage PR’s ability to combine public relations, branding and event management to build stakeholder engagement and support business objectives.

Sponsoring a conference or corporate event in Malawi? Talk to Mirage PR about public relations, event branding and event management that get your brand noticed.

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How Mirage PR Brought Old Mutual Malawi’s Africa Day Campaign to Life Across Three Cities

 

 

25th, 27th and 29th May 2026

Client: Old Mutual Malawi

Assignment: Campaign Conceptualisation, Event Coordination and Internal Engagement Management

Solution: In May 2026, Old Mutual Malawi entrusted Mirage PR to conceptualise and execute a nationwide Africa Day campaign that celebrated not only the continent’s rich cultural heritage but also two significant milestones in the organisation’s history of 181 years of the Old Mutual Group and 72 years of Old Mutual’s presence in Malawi.

The campaign was designed to honour Africa’s identity, rooted in resilience, diversity, unity, and shared progress, while reinforcing Old Mutual’s longstanding commitment to empowering communities and creating positive futures. Through a series of immersive employee engagements across Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu, Mirage PR transformed Africa Day from a commemorative occasion into a memorable celebration of culture, heritage, and belonging.

Held under the broader theme of celebrating African identity and Old Mutual’s enduring legacy, the activations encouraged employees to embrace their cultural roots by wearing traditional African attire and sharing locally prepared meals with colleagues. What began as a cultural celebration quickly evolved into a series of unforgettable experiences designed to surprise, engage, and unite employees across the country.

The campaign officially launched in Blantyre on 25 May 2026, where employees arrived expecting a traditional Africa Day celebration. Instead, they were treated to a carefully curated programme filled with unexpected moments and immersive cultural experiences. A standout highlight was a surprise flashmob activation featuring an acapella group disguised as firefighters responding to what appeared to be a routine fire drill. As the unsuspecting crowd gathered, the performers broke into song, transforming the moment into a captivating celebration that instantly energized the audience.

The excitement continued with vibrant performances from traditional dance groups, urban dance crews, and live musical acts that brought African culture to life through movement, music, and storytelling. Branded culinary stations served a variety of local delicacies, creating a shared dining experience that encouraged interaction and strengthened employee connections.

The celebrations moved to Lilongwe on 27 May 2026, where Mirage PR recreated the Africa Day experience as employees were welcomed into a fully branded environment featuring a dedicated photo booth, professional photography, and cultural installations designed to encourage participation and engagement. A highlight of the Lilongwe activation was the authentic bwandiro-inspired experience, featuring local food stations and traditional meals that celebrated Malawi’s culinary heritage. Live cultural performances, urban dancers and a local band. 

The final leg of the campaign took place in Mzuzu on 29 May 2026, extending the celebration to Old Mutual’s Northern Region workforce. Employees were welcomed into a cultural experience featuring traditional performances, interactive engagements and local cuisine. The Mzuzu activation created meaningful moments of connection while reinforcing the values of unity, inclusivity and cultural appreciation that underpin both Africa Day and the Old Mutual brand.

Across all three cities, Mirage PR ensured a consistent campaign experience while adapting activations to reflect the unique character of each location. Through culture, music, food, storytelling, and shared experiences, the campaign successfully celebrated Old Mutual’s legacy while creating memorable moments that strengthened employee engagement and organisational pride.

Another successful execution in the books, demonstrating Mirage PR’s ability to design and deliver large-scale internal engagement campaigns, corporate events and experiential activations that connect people through culture, create memorable brand experiences, and bring organisational values to life.

Highlights of the Campaign

  • Successful conceptualisation and rollout of a nationwide Africa Day campaign celebrating Africa Day, Old Mutual’s 181-year Group legacy, and 72 years of operations in Malawi.
  • Simultaneous activation across Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu, ensuring consistent brand messaging and employee engagement across all key regional offices.
  • Surprise flashmob experience featuring disguised performers that transformed a routine fire drill into one of the campaign’s most memorable moments.
  • Live cultural entertainment including traditional dance troupes, urban dancers, acapella performers, and live musical acts that celebrated Africa’s rich cultural diversity.
  • Professionally branded photo booth experiences deployed across all three cities, creating engaging content opportunities for employees.
  • Authentic culinary activations featuring locally inspired food stations, traditional dishes, and the popular Mutual Meals concept that encouraged participation and cultural exchange.
  • High employee participation levels, with strong engagement across all regions through cultural attire, shared experiences, and interactive activations.
  • Professional photography and videography coverage that captured key moments and ensured consistent storytelling throughout the campaign.
  • Development and delivery of a combined campaign highlight video showcasing the celebrations across Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu.
  • Extensive traditional and digital media coverage that amplified the significance of the celebrations and highlighted Old Mutual’s 181-year African legacy and 72-year presence in Malawi.
  • Same-day delivery of social media reels, highlight videos, and campaign content to sustain momentum and maximise audience engagement throughout the activation period.
  • Successful reinforcement of Old Mutual’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, cultural appreciation, and community-building through meaningful employee experiences.
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Mirage Brings Premium Event Experience to The Blantyre Open Championship

On 27th and 28th June, Mirage brought an experience to remember to the Blantyre Sports Club Open Championship. As proud sponsors of the event, Mirage PR set out to do more and went the extra mile to create an unforgettable experience. We built a space where golfers and guests could pause at the midway point, connect, and enjoy the weekend in style.

This sponsorship was also strategically designed to generate leads while showcasing the Mirage brand. It went beyond traditional marketing, demonstrating our experiential capabilities and how our strategies take brands out of the rough and into the green.

The experience featured a branded photo booth, capturing memorable moments with golfers; branded water to keep players refreshed throughout the tournament; a spa area, offering relief from the tension of the course; and a curated cocktail and mocktail bar, serving something for every taste.

At the centre of it all sat the Mirage Lounge, a relaxed retreat where players and spectators could unwind, network, and take in the action in comfort.

As part of its sponsorship commitment, Mirage also took to the podium to present one of the tournament’s prizes, recognising the skill and competitive spirit of this year’s field while reinforcing its role as an active partner in the championship.

For us, this is what sponsorship should look like, not just visibility, but value. We didn’t just show up; we showed up with an experience worth talking about.

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NBS Bank MDF Thanksgiving Golf Tournament

 

1st  November – 2nd November, 2025

Client: NBS Bank

Assignment: Event Coordination and Event Management, Public Relations

Solution: NBS Bank partnered with Mirage PR to organize the prestigious 2025 Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Veterans Thanksgiving Golf Tournament, held on 25th October at Country Club Limbe. The tournament was played over two days and brought together retired and serving MDF officers, corporate partners, invited guests, and golf enthusiasts, celebrating both sporting excellence and the dedication of MDF veterans.

Registration began at 7:30 AM, with participants receiving branded gift bags and enjoying morning refreshments. The tournament officially started at 8:30 AM with a ceremonial opening shot by General George Alexander Jaffu, Commander of the MDF. Along the nine-hole course, three selected holes featured special “hole experiences,” including water breaks, a champagne area, spa sessions, and cocktails, offering golfers interactive and relaxing moments throughout the tournament.

The overall winners represented Msilikali SACCO. The event concluded with remarks from General Jaffu, Minister Roza Mbilizi, and NBS Bank CEO Temwani Simwaka, who commended the spirit of camaraderie, partnership, and excellence. Mirage PR handled the full coordination, branding, and overall management of the tournament, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all participants.

Highlights of the campaign

– Curated Hole Experiences: Mirage PR curated special hole experiences across selected holes of the golf course, including water break stations, a spa area, and cocktail experiences. These activations resonated strongly with the golfers, enhancing their overall experience and generating visible excitement and engagement throughout the tournament.

– Media Management: The agency managed all media coordination for the event, ensuring seamless engagement with the press and effective coverage. All published articles and media content were compiled and formally presented to the client as part of the post-event deliverables.

– Branding and Décor: Mirage PR handled the branding and décor for the event, ensuring that VIP spaces, the prize presentation area, and the post-event performance space were thoughtfully curated and beautifully decorated, creating a premium and welcoming atmosphere.

– Entertainment: Entertainment featured a live Malawi Defence Force Dance Band and a dedicated DJ. The specially curated and decorated post-event performance area provided an ideal setting for the band, while the DJ maintained an engaging atmosphere throughout the day and into the post–prize presentation session

 

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ONE NICO Netball Top 12 Cup

 

28th June, 2025

Client: NICO Group

Assignment: Event Management, Event Concept, Event Coordination

The inaugural ONE NICO Netball Top 12 Cup, championed by NICO Group (including NBS Bank and Eris Properties), was officially launched on Saturday, 28 June 2025, at Blantyre Youth Centre (BYC). The tournament marked a major milestone in Malawian sport, serving as a platform to uplift netball, empower women, and rally national support for athletes.

In the lead-up to the launch, high-energy activations built excitement among staff and the public. On 25 June, Piksy and his team conducted a Corporate Dance Tour across Chibisa House, NICO House, and NBS Ginnery Corner Offices, teaching staff the official theme song and dance. The sessions created strong ownership and enthusiasm within the NICO family.

On 27 June, a public activation at Chichiri Mall engaged shoppers with a dance challenge, netball shooting games, and branded giveaways. The vibrant event generated online buzz and anticipation for the tournament.

The official launch on 28 June began with a lively parade from Chibisa House to BYC, featuring the Malawi Police Brass Band, dancers, staff, and community members, alongside senior NICO executives, NAM officials, and the Deputy Mayor of Blantyre. The ceremony featured speeches from key stakeholders, including NAM President Vitumbiko M’bwana and Deputy Mayor Jomo Osman, all commending NICO’s role in sports development.

Dr. Kwanele Ngwenya, NICO Group COO, officially declared the tournament open, reaffirming NICO’s commitment to developing talent. The event culminated with a symbolic trophy handover to NAM and an official throw-off, marking the start of competitive play in this historic tournament.

Highlights of the campaign

  • The theme song by Piksy proved highly effective, with widespread participation in the dance from staff and the public.
  • Successful activations – both corporate and public activations were well-received and helped generate momentum ahead of the main event.
  • Parade impact – the inclusion of the Police Brass Band and energetic dancers brought flair and visibility to the parade.
  • Technology enhancement – the use of an electronic scoreboard at BYC improved match tracking and audience experience.
  • Security & coordination – the parade was well supported with a police escort and traffic officers, ensuring smooth movement.
  • Performance quality – the dancers delivered an energetic and well-coordinated show during both the parade and launch. Piksy’s two performances were also very engaging and exciting for the audience.

 

 

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NICO Group The BenchTALK

 

13th July 2025

Client: NICO Group

Assignment: Event Management, Event Concept, Event Coordination, Media Management, Media Production

Solution:  The inaugural BenchTALK, held on 13th July 2025 at Lantana Lodge, was a groundbreaking event dedicated to celebrating men in a refreshing and meaningful way. Conceptualised and executed by Mirage PR under the directive of NICO Group, the evening was designed to spark conversations that are rarely given space in traditional settings, conversations about purpose, leadership, health, pressure, and identity. The event coincided with the FIFA Club World Cup Final between Chelsea and PSG, creating the perfect blend of serious dialogue and brotherhood entertainment. From the outset, Mirage PR ensured the experience was memorable, with a football-inspired entrance, themed décor, and an atmosphere that was both relaxed and purposeful.

The programme was anchored by powerful messages from speakers such as NICO Group CEO Donbell Mandala, who acknowledged the silent burdens men often carry, and Daniel Dunga of NICO Asset Managers, who encouraged men to adopt a long-term perspective in their personal and professional lives. One of the standout sessions came from Dr. Frank Taulo, who delivered an honest and eye-opening discussion on men’s health, urging attendees to prioritise physical wellness, mental well-being, and emotional openness. Mirage PR’s host kept the mood lively with a prediction game before the match, sparking laughter and camaraderie, while the screening of the Chelsea vs PSG final on a 3×2 LED screen provided by the agency gave guests a stadium-like experience. The braai-style dinner, also coordinated by Mirage PR, complemented the evening perfectly, allowing guests to continue networking and bonding in a casual, enjoyable setting.

Guests responded with enthusiasm, praising the overall ambiance, the relevance of the discussions, and the thoughtful coordination of food, entertainment, and technical support. Many expressed deep gratitude to NICO Group for providing a platform where men felt truly acknowledged and celebrated, while also commending Mirage PR for their seamless delivery. Although some guests left before collecting the branded gifts that were prepared, the gesture further reinforced the attention to detail in curating the experience. BenchTALK not only achieved its goal of honouring men in a unique way but also laid the foundation for what can grow into a signature annual event that blends meaningful conversations with shared experiences, ensuring lasting impact for both the guests and the brand.

Highlights of the campaign

  • Guests thoroughly enjoyed the LED screen experience, which allowed them to watch the game comfortably while networking with fellow attendees.
  • The event décor and overall ambiance were exceptional, receiving high praise from many guests on the day.
  • The presentations delivered were highly relatable, resonating deeply with the male audience and sparking meaningful reflection.
  • Frank Taulo’s health talk stood out as a key highlight, offering eye-opening insights that captivated the attention of the men in attendance.
  • Guests expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NICO Group for creating a space where men could gather, connect, and feel acknowledged , many noted that they truly felt “seen” by the brand.
  • The braai complemented well with event and the guests enjoyed the food experience.
  • Branded gifts were prepared for all guests as part of the event experience. However, only a few were able to collect theirs, as some attendees had to leave early and were unable to pick them up.
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