Clients Continue...

“We partner with world-class clients and professional, inspirational people. Read what some of them have to say about us:”

We have included some comments from our COOL clients…

I have known Debbie for more than 15 years, and during the times we have worked together, she has proven herself to be extremely capable and competent at handling the many diverse needs of her clients, most especially at adapting to the marketing requirements of a rapidly evolving digital world. While it is to be expected that her clients always come first, she is never shy about putting in the long hours and weekend effort sometimes required in this job. Just as crucially, she is as caring and concerned for the welfare of her employees and suppliers (like myself), as she is for her clients. I am proud to be considered a member of the Coolcumba Family.

Rodney Weidemann »

Senior Writer

“I’ve worked with Debs for almost two decades on the SME survey research project and related projects, and have always been amazed at her consistent high levels of professionalism, efficiency and client relationships. The partnership has been not only productive and rewarding, but has continually opened doors to new ideas and opportunities. I look forward to many more years of fruitful endeavours.”

Arthur Goldstruck »

Founder and CEO of World Wide Worx

“It’s my true pleasure to Introduce Debs Whittaker. A true outlier of humanity, professionalism and empathy. Being a ICT professional with amazing skills in Marketing, Social Media and Strategy, I have found Debs to be a creative, resourceful and unique in her work techniques. Always available to help, assist and support colleagues and friends without hesitation. It’s a blessing to have such leading role models of equality, inclusion and equal rights for everyone. A staunch voice for Girls, Women equity and rights. And indeed a skilled, capable and high capacity professional. Reach her expertise for your relevant work requirements”

Rizwan AFSHAR »

“Met with Debs and associates during the Gartner IT Symposium – Expo. What a lovely bunch of people – truly passionate about what they are doing in the field of marketing, events planning and promotions. They DO out of the box thinking. Debbie and team are always willing to assist and have bright new ideas – any company will benefit, working with Coolcumba Communications. Have a look at their website and all services done by them and I can assure you that you will find something to put your company on the next level when it comes to Event and project management, Digital Marketing, PR, Content Management, amazing fresh new website designs, they even provide exciting cost effective gifts and clothing. You will not find a company more up to speed with latest requirements. They listen to the client and understand the requirement and always gets the job done on time and within budget.”

Estelle Classen »

Project Management Specialist at E-Star Holdings (Pty) Ltd.

“I have worked with Debbie and Coolcumba over the years and find her to be one of the most flexible and nicest people to work with when it comes to events and marketing initiatives. Debbie knows the industry, she takes time to understand what we do and is very pro-active when it comes to suggestions and ideas. Looking forward to many more engagements.”

Anien Coetzee »

Regional Director | Construction and Engineering Global Business Unit at Oracle

“I’m based in Dubai and had to plan 3 events in South Africa within the same week. We chose Coolcumba to manage these for us based on their great reputation in the market, and I have to say this was the most flawless and seamless experience I’ve had with any event, let alone 3! Debbie and her team understood our requirements and delivered to the highest standard and all 3 events were a great success. I felt extremely at ease knowing the events were in safe hands. Debbie will be my go to for any events we have in the SSA market! Highly, highly recommended!”

Yasmine Farah »

Regional Marketing Manager | Oracle

“I have had the pleasure of working with Debbie Whittaker and her Coolcumba team for over 15 years. From delivering events on a massive scale for Microsoft, Oracle and Sun Microsystems, all the way through to working with SMEs with limited budgets, Debbie has always added measurable value to her clients.

She is able to interpret clients’ needs, match them to the trends of the industry at that time and produce incredible results. Never one to shy away from a challenge, the Coolcumba team has always been able to produce an ROI that is enviable in the world of marketing, where most companies avoid addressing this issue.

I have worked with Debbie in areas as diverse as social media planning, event concepts and production and thought leadership and PR. Coolcumba has added enough value to me as a client, that I have been a return customer and enthusiastic referral partner of her business for over a decade. “

Jacqui Gogele »

Director | SALTBIZ

“Thanks Debbie. We had a successful event. I would like to thank Tsholo for her dedication and great efforts, well done.”

Dya Mrini »

Marketing Manager | MicroStrategy

“I first had the privilege of working with Debbie in the field of marketing research and was immediately blown away by her professionalism and her ability to manage the complex dynamics with our large enterprise and produce the detailed results we expected and more.

I therefore had no hesitation in working with her and her team on our GTM and product launch which she once again exceeded our expectations by providing innovative thinking and execution.

The entire process was seamless and smooth, while exhibiting strong leadership skills, nothing was too much for her and her team and made the customer experience delightful!

I look forward to working with Debbie and her team when the opportunity arises again and feel very comfortable in recommending Debbie and her team.”

Charles Lalieu »

Managing Executive Product and Solution Development | BCX

“Just a quick thank you for all your work on the event, and getting us to a great turnout – really appreciate all the hard work that went into that – so a big thank you to you and your team. And for once again doing a superb event, the feedback was great.”

Deborah Summers »

Marketing Administrator | Britehouse

“Thank you for such a comprehensive report for the Oracle HCM Cloud Event in Namibia and also for your willingness to assist in the last minutes. You and your team were able to pull this off in only two weeks and it was perfectly executed. Thank you once more and we look forward to executing such events with you in the future.”

Mary Makgoko »

Oracle Corporation SA

“Thanks to you Debbie and your team for all your assistance in making sure today went smoothly. The venue was lovely, the décor fantastic and the food was brilliant.

We already have 3 follow up meetings arranged so I am pleased.

Please send my thanks to your staff who were very professional and helpful.”

Nicole Astfalck »

Sales and Marketing | Futuresense

“Just wanted to give you feedback on our the Cloud Day we had at the Indaba Hotel yesterday. In a nutshell, the day was a huge success! The interaction levels were excellent, and the customers were really interested to take this further.

I would like to thank everybody involved, especially local marketing team with Debbie and William from Coolcumba who ensured everything ran like clockwork – especially seeing that we changed the venue at the last minute, and combined the event with the GB event.

A special thanks to Pascal, our ‘guest of honor’ – without your participation and guidance, we would not have been able to pull it off! Lastly, a special thanks to all the South African speakers who went out of their way to familiarize themselves with the new content and delivered outstanding presentations. Well done to all – I am really looking forward to see the feedback and pipeline created!”

Heilet Scholtz »

Director Solution Consulting | Oracle Technology | South Africa

“Thanks a million for a fantastic week, everything ran like clockwork, well done.”

James Munn »

Qualcomm South Africa

“It’s a little overdue, but I just wanted to take a moment to thank you so much for going the extra mile for Ariba at the SPW Conference.

From managing the fall out and closing the gaps on the poor organisation of the event, to covering for our sales colleagues, who sadly, once again missed the opportunities afforded them by the conference L … you stepped in and stepped up at every turn … and you were fabulous at the CxO Forum – THANK YOU, you’re an absolute star!!”

Best Regards,

Catherine Hills »

Regional Vice President – Africa | Business Network Customer Organization
Ariba, an SAP Company, 4 Waterford Place | Century City | Cape Town | South Africa

Firstly, thanks for my awesome gift.

“Then, I just wanted to say well done on all your efforts at the conference last week. I think you went above and beyond the usual events organiser and real got involved in helping us deliver the right message at the event.”

Well done to you and your team

Regards

Umesh Sita »

Specialist | Supply Chain Management | Africa – SAP AFRICA

“Just a note to say well done and thanks for organising and executing a great event–I have only received positive feedback”

James Mullen »

Regional Marketing Manager – PUMA SOUTH AFRICA

“On behalf of Oracle Cape Town, a BIG Capetonian thank you to all of you for making our Apps Day event today such a massive success. To Natanya, Cathy, Debbie, Kelly and the rest of our amazing M-Team – thanks for your tireless effort over the past few month. All the planning, coordinating, organising, facilitating. You put on a slick, world-class event today.”

Robert Williamson »

Territory Manager: Western Cape Oracle Corporation South Africa

“I have used Coolcumba Communications for many years at Oracle, and have never been disappointed in their delivery. They bring a fresh approach to every brief and ensure that they have a good understanding of the “bigger picture”, going above and beyond to bring real value to the project. Coolcumba Communications view the events as their own and take the success of each one very personally. I can recommend them without hesitation to anyone who wants to take their marketing activities to the next level.”

Natanya Steyn »

Oracle Cluster Marketing Leader – South Africa and Transition Region

“Excellent event! Great discussions, speakers and networking…. Excellent all round including organization and attendees”

Cathy Stadler »

Oracle Marketing Director | MEA Applications Marketing

Heath Management Information System Showcase, Mthatha

“Thank you and GREAT JOB Debbie and Kelly!!”

Berhane Gebru »

Director of Programs, TechLab @ FHI360

“What an incredible event last week, team!!! Thank you once again for all being such a delight to work with. I was so pleased with the turnout and hope that each of you were, too. All of our hard work certainly made for great results. I’m excited to see what further media attention we gain for a well-deserving project and event.”

Kyle Moss»

Project Manager, Qualcomm Wireless Reach

Oracle Customer Experience Executive Briefing; Johannesburg

“It was the first time that I have heard a customer stand up at the end and publicly thank Oracle for the interesting content & event.”

Cathy Stadler »

Marketing Director: Africa Operations, Oracle Corporation SA

Ariba Executive Dinner; La Colombe Restaurant, Constantia

“Hi Kelly, please accept my sincerest thanx for a memorable and informative evening. Also congratulations on an event well planned and executed and a final thank you for going the extra mile.”

Jitesh Naidoo »

SACBTA

Ariba Executive Dinner; La Colombe Restaurant, Constantia

“You are fantastic at what you do and the value that you guys add is immense. Long may the relationship continue!”

Deon Mocke »

Regional Vice President, Ariba Africa

Galvadip is moving – integrated marketing campaign – March 2012

“I just wanted to say again thanks for this. We have had very good response from all sectors: potential customers, existing customers, ex-customers who want to do business again, competitors, friends, family, etc.. The choice of mediums, plus the choice of radio station – Jacaranda – have certainly been the correct ones.”

Theo von Bardeleben »

Director, Galvadip

“It was an absolute pleasure working with you and your team. We received positive feedback on the 2 days and we would love to work with you again on future events.”

Alison Bennet »

Human Resources Shared Services, AVI

“Debbie is the consummate PR professional with a really creative streak. She runs a tight ship and has been very successful with a number of blue-chip ICT companies. I endorse her work without qualification.”

Denis Smit »

Managing Director, BMI-TechKnowledge Group

“Thank you Kelly & Debbie. A great turnout and engagement from Cape audience. The content and speakers were all brilliant! Feedback forms I saw were very positive.”

Kholiwe Makhohliso »

Oracle Corporation South Africa – Country Lead for Applications

“I have worked with and for Debbie for more than 10 years and have found her to be a driven and results oriented marketer par excellence. She has consistently delivered on her projects and displayed all the attributes of an informed, resilient and adaptable business executive.”

Kelvin Reynolds »

GM, EPSON Southern Africa

“As a Consulting Director within and then COO of New Dawn Holdings I have worked with Debbie, both as a service provider to my company and as a partner where my company was providing a client with a web development service. In both cases Debbie proved to be well organised and client oriented as she ensured client close involvement in her work, resulting in client centred deliverables. Our website was one of the most attractive in the industry and our client where we used Debbie’s services was very happy with the look-and-feel of the delivered website. Coolcumba Communications also successfully handled our corporate stationery, company profile and business cards designs and production for my company when I was the Managing Director of New Dawn Prophesy Business Solutions. I recommend Coolcumba Communications to any client who would like high impact graphic designs.”

Billy Ledwaba »

Consulting Director, Chief Operations Officer Managing Director at New Dawn Technologies (South Africa)

“Oracle Technology Day in Botswana on 25 May was very well attended and very well arranged by Coolcumba.”

George Leonard »

Principal, Exadata Pre Sales Product Specialist/Solution Architect (Africa)

“Both Anne and I would like to thank you for all your hard work in helping us with Africa Rail this year. Feedback from everyone who attended the Africa Rail stand was that it looked very professional, and of course won “2009 Best Stand”! With a tight budget and timeline, this is a credit to you and your team.”

“Hi Debbie, just a quick note to thank you and the Coolcumba Communications team for organising yet another great event at the Oracle Day yesterday. It is always a pleasure working with you folks and we always seem to have successful days when working with your team at events.”

Peter Bruggeman »

Director, Enterprise Gauge

“Thank you from the SAOUG for your excellent work and support at the conference! I can say we had great support at all times whereby people were always available to support or assist. Thank you for your hard work which paid off. Your assistance with a smile was appreciated and noticed. I had a great time working with you once again and we did exceed all targets!”

Michelle Joubert »

GM, SAOUG

“Coolcumba Communications has supplied Oracle with marketing services for nearly five years. They have run a number of events for us, ranging from 20 to 1,200 pax, delivering with the same level of professionalism regardless of numbers. Coolcumba Communications is creative and they add huge value to whatever they plan and execute for us. Their attention to detail is high, and they instil a high sense of confidence in the client.”

Natanya Steyn »

Marketing Manager, Oracle Corporation South Africa

“Firstly, thank you again for all your hard work and enthusiasm in ensuring this year’s event was a success. I have received only good feedback from all participants, management and sponsors. Well done, and in particular to Kelly who did a sterling job of pulling everything together so professionally.”

Claire Alexandra »

Marketing Manager, Sun Microsystems

“Datacentrix is very pleased with the turnout of the event and believed that it was a success. I would just like to thank Coolcumba Communications and especially you Tracey for a job well done.”

Natasha Michael »

Account Manager, NetPartnering South Africa

“The Sun Tech Days worldwide developer conference ascended upon South Africa for the first time from 3-5 May 2006 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. After reviewing several proposals and event management companies, Coolcumba Communications was chosen to be responsible for the complete event management portfolio, including supplier management, budget management, marketing and delegate recruitment drive, Web site design and development, e-mail campaigns, venue arrangements, catering, on site management (including all logistics, exhibition and exhibitors, entertainment, etc). With over 1,100 attendees they were able to execute on, what I believe, to be one of the most enlightening and energised events to date. Our keynote for the event was non other than the incomparable Dr. James Gosling, so this needed to be representative of a premier event in the region. The event was managed with the utmost professionalism and came in ‘under’ budget.”

Thanks to the efforts of everyone combined, but especially the Coolcumba Communications team, we have indeed made Tech Days history in Johannesburg, South Africa! For future reference, I would have no reservations what-so-ever in recommending this team.

Renita Stafford »

Manager, Sun Tech Global Developer Conference, Sun Microsystems, USA

“I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for a very enjoyable experience at my first SAOUG. Everything from the golf day to all the functions and events at the conference were exceptionally well organized, a job well done.”

Melvyn Cochrane »

Oracle Database Administrator, GijimaAST

“Heartfelt thanks from me and our management team for the hard work and long hours that went into the year’s SAOUG conference.”

Martin Dhlamini »

Marketing Director, Oracle Corporation SA

“Just to let you know – and thanks for the effort – that from our side it was the best organised User Group to date. We have been attending since 1999 and it was an absolute pleasure dealing with you.”

Peter Bruggeman »

Director, RippIT

“Thanks for a wonderful show and your ladies are brilliant, they are hard working and professional and just awesome. I am pleased to have found such a professional company as yours to deal with.”

Leigh-Ann Spencer »

Alliance and Marketing Manager, Tata Consultancy Services

“I would like to thank you and your staff / company for the great time that my colleague Mr. Willy Hank had at the BMC CIO Golf Experience. He had nothing but the best to say about the day. Once again thank you very much!”

Mark Barnabas »

Operations Manager, Kagiso

“Many, many thanks for your great efforts; they are much appreciated! I hope that the racing Penguin continues for many years to come!”

Brian Schultz »

Director, MBS Software

“Thank you once again for the absolutely coolest stand at IMFO. We received a lot of compliments and we all agreed that the stand (and soccer balls) caught the eye… Thanks!”

Minette Orsmond »

HRMS Sales Consultant, Oracle Corporation SA

“It was good working with you… You are organised, creative and very enthusiastic when it comes to your work.”