Meet Donna Kincade, our brilliant Business Unit Director, who’s been part of the Matriarch family for over 22 years. With a mind for strategy and a heart for people, Donna plays a key role in leading our biggest accounts – including the likes of Standard Bank and Beiersdorf -with calm confidence, sharp insight, and a passion for exceptional delivery. Her combination of big-picture thinking and attention to detail makes her one of those rare individuals who truly elevates every project she touches.
We caught up with Donna to chat about her approach to experiential marketing, staying creative under pressure, and the magic that happens when the right team comes together.
What do you find most challenging and rewarding about working in experiential marketing?
Live events are beautifully unpredictable – and that’s both the challenge and the thrill. From sudden weather changes to last-minute client requests or technical hiccups, no two days (or events) are the same. But honestly, it’s also what makes this job so rewarding. There’s nothing quite like seeing a campaign come to life, watching an audience light up, and knowing all the moving parts aligned to create something memorable. Those real-time reactions? That’s the gold.
How do you approach brainstorming and coming up with creative ideas for client projects?
Collaboration is everything. I believe the best ideas come from creating a space where everyone feels safe to contribute — no idea is too out there. We always start by diving deep into the client’s world: understanding their brand, their audience, and what they’re trying to achieve. From there, we play. Whether it’s mind-mapping, role-play, or bouncing ideas over coffee, it’s about unlocking fresh, meaningful ways to connect with people. It’s not just about being creative — it’s about being strategic and human, too.
In your opinion, what role does technology play in shaping the future of experiential marketing?
Technology is one of our greatest tools – and not just in the flashy, futuristic sense. Of course, AR, VR, and interactive installations let us dream bigger and build bolder. But tech also helps us be smarter. Real-time data lets us fine-tune experiences on the fly, personalisation tools help us connect meaningfully, and digital integration means we can bridge the physical and online worlds in exciting ways. If we stay curious and keep learning, tech becomes a springboard, not a barrier.
What sets Matriarch apart in the world of experiential marketing?
Hands down, our people. Matriarch is packed with passionate, creative, can-do minds who genuinely care about what we do. There’s a real sense of ownership here – we don’t just show up for the job, we show up for each other. Our team brings heart to every idea, hustle to every project, and heartwarming energy to every event. That mix of soul and strategy? It’s what makes Matriarch unforgettable.
From big-picture planning to in-the-moment magic, Donna’s dedication and warmth shine through everything she does. We’re lucky to have her steering the ship — and bringing her signature blend of insight, humour, and heart to the Matriarch team.
Stay tuned for more stories from the people who bring our events to life — one real moment at a time.
