Viya

Nsumbu

Director & Director,

POLELE

"

advised organisations from the Ford Foundation and UN Women to IKEA and ASICS

Viya is a reputation expert and founder of POLELE, a strategic communications agency partnering with change-driven leaders, brands, and organisations.

With a background spanning political campaigns, corporate communications, and public engagement, she helps organisations manage risk, build trust, and shape narratives that drive real-world impact. She has held roles at Sky, Edelman, and the British Library, and advised organisations from the Ford Foundation and UN Women to IKEA and ASICS.

Recognised for her leadership on purpose-driven communications, she is a regular speaker on reputation and authentic storytelling. She has judged awards such as the PR Week Purpose Awards EMEA and the Pros Awards.

q&a

Why did you sign up to be a judge for The Pros Awards 2026?

To witness excellence firsthand! I’m consistently amazed by the calibre of entrants, from the incredible people propelling our industry forward to the campaigns reshaping how we connect.

What Insta/LinkedIn/Tik Tok account should every comms pro follow and why?

Eleshea Williams on LinkedIn. As a social specialist at Amnesty International, she has an incredible ability to bring warmth to a difficult subject matter without diminishing its importance.

She also just seems to be genuinely enjoying herself – and we need more of that energy on LinkedIn!

What was your favourite PR/comms campaign from 2025 and why?

I really enjoyed the Gap/Katseye ‘Better in Denim’ campaign. Aside from outstanding choreography, talent selection, music and visuals, it served as a reminder that some large companies are still committed to inclusivity at a time when many are stepping back.

In a world of American Eagle and dog whistling, be Gap and ‘Better in Denim.’

As always, we’ve got a great DJ booked for The Pros Awards award ceremony in September – what’s your dance floor filler request?

Omo To Sexy – BLNDE