Beckmann brings with her experience from the technology and financial services industries where she held executive roles in marketing, communications, and corporate affairs across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East with blue-chip organisations Intel Corp., Microsoft, Huawei, Multichoice, and Old Mutual Emerging Markets, where she served as group communications executive.

Alex Okosi, executive vice president and MD of VIMN Africa, says, "Fathima is a seasoned international communications leader and brings valuable cross-industry and geographic experience to our expanded executive team. Her strategic thinking and expertise will add great value to our business. We are excited to have her on board."

Beckmann adds, "It is a privilege to join the Viacom Africa team, with their portfolio of world-class brands that showcase the best of African and international content, talent, and experiences. I am grateful for this unique opportunity."

Beckmann, has been in the industry for more than 20 years and has a portfolio of projects, including managing the PR team across 40 countries for Intel’s International Science and Engineering Awards. She was also part of the leadership team at Old Mutual Emerging Markets who, together with the Women’s Investment Portfolio Holdings (WIPHOLD) Consortium, developed the communications strategy for the 10-year broad-based black business partners deal in South Africa. 

In addition to working in South Africa, Beckmann was based in Dubai from 2009 to 2012 in regional HQ roles with Huawei and Microsoft, which extended across the Middle East and North Africa.

Beckmann holds a BA communications science degree from the University of South Africa and is a board member of the Maths Centre, a non-profit organisation in mathematics, science, technology, and entrepreneurship education.

She is also a founding member of the Digital Interactive Media Association, which was the first body to represent the industry and contributed a key role in digital representation at the Loerie® Awards.

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