South African Leaders Named in PRovoke Media’s Innovator 25 EMEA

South African Leaders Named in PRovoke Media’s Innovator 25 EMEA. Two South African communications leaders have been recognised in PRovoke Media’s 2026 Innovator 25 EMEA list, an annual ranking that celebrates professionals driving new thinking and approaches across the communications industry.

This year’s honourees are Abdul Waheed Patel, Chief Executive of Ethicore, and Rachel Irvine, Chief Executive of Irvine Partners. Their inclusion highlights South Africa’s growing influence in shaping global communications practices and underscores the country’s role in advancing innovation across the sector.

Now in its 11th year, the Innovator 25 recognises communications professionals who challenge established practices and help organisations navigate increasingly complex environments. The 2026 class features experts spanning corporate affairs, public policy, creativity, digital and social media, artificial intelligence, data and intelligence, employee engagement, healthcare communications, and reputation management.

According to PRovoke Media, this year’s innovators are not only developing new tools and capabilities but are also reshaping how communications leaders influence business strategy and public discourse. The list reflects a region grappling with economic, political, and societal change, with innovators helping to elevate communications from a support function to a strategic business discipline.

From AI adoption and digital transformation to sustainability, public affairs, and stakeholder trust, the selected professionals are recognised for finding new ways to solve complex challenges and create meaningful impact.

Patel and Irvine’s recognition places South Africa firmly on the map of global communications innovation. Their leadership demonstrates how African professionals are contributing to the evolution of the industry, ensuring that local perspectives and expertise are represented in international conversations about the future of communications.

The announcement comes at a time when African creatives are increasingly engaging with global platforms, such as the Cannes Lions, to showcase the continent’s creative and strategic talent.