Tia Banda

I’m a content strategist and influencer marketing specialist with nearly a decade of experience in digital content creation, influencer relations, and brand storytelling. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the world’s most recognizable brands, from Disney+, Netflix and Vodacom to mass-market giants like Massmart and Mondelez.

My expertise spans the full spectrum of influencer marketing—from nano to macro collaborations—where I bring a mix of strategy, creativity, and execution to every campaign. At my core, I’m passionate about storytelling and how brands can connect with audiences in meaningful ways through influencers. I’m hands-on in every stage of the process—from conceptualizing and selecting influencers to executing and optimizing campaigns.

I’ve helped shape major brand moments, including leading influencer strategies for high-profile events like the Durban July, proving that influencer marketing, when done right, is more than just a trend—it’s a powerful tool for engagement. For me, the best influencer campaigns come from co-creation, where both the brand and creator bring their unique strengths to the table. I love collaborating with influencers, ensuring that partnerships feel authentic, engaging, and results driven. As part of this panel, I’m excited to bring an agency perspective to the evolving creator economy, exploring how brands and creators can build sustainable, future-forward partnerships in a rapidly changing digital landscape.