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K. P. G. Uma Unni: Winner – Women Leader in Corporate Gifting & Brand Experience | International Women Awards 2026

  • Writer: Great Companies
    Great Companies
  • Apr 22
  • 3 min read

The 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are building enduring businesses through vision, resilience, and consistent excellence.


Among this year’s distinguished winners is K. P. G. Uma Unni, Founder of Veveena, honored as Winner – Women Leader in Corporate Gifting & Brand Experience.


Based in Bengaluru, India, Uma Unni has spent nearly two decades transforming corporate gifting into a strategic brand-building tool—creating meaningful, design-led experiences that go beyond traditional gifting.


Company Overview

Founder: K. P. G. Uma Unni

Business: Veveena

Location: Bengaluru, India

Founded: 2006

Category: Corporate Gifting & Brand Experience

Industry: Corporate Gifting, Merchandising & Packaging Solutions


Redefining Corporate Gifting as a Brand Experience

Veveena was founded with a powerful vision:👉 To transform corporate gifts into meaningful extensions of a brand’s identity and values

The company specializes in:

  • Employee gifting and rewards programs

  • Dealer and partner incentivization

  • Customized merchandise and brand collateral

  • Luxury packaging and curated hampers

  • Event, wedding, and institutional gifting solutions

Each solution is crafted to reflect the brand philosophy, audience, and purpose of the client—making every gift a memorable experience.


An Integrated, Design-Led Approach

What sets Veveena apart is its end-to-end, co-creative model that seamlessly integrates:

  • Ideation and concept development

  • Product design and customization

  • Manufacturing and sourcing

  • Packaging and distribution


Key differentiators include:

  • Bespoke, brand-aligned gifting solutions

  • Strong focus on design, materials, and presentation

  • Ability to execute large-scale, multi-location projects

  • A robust vendor ecosystem ensuring consistency and quality

Rather than offering standard products, Veveena delivers:👉 Strategically crafted gifting experiences that strengthen brand relationships


A Legacy Built on Trust and Excellence

Over the years, Veveena has built long-standing partnerships with leading organizations such as:

  • Tata Group (Titan, Tanishq, Fastrack, Taneira, Tata Motors)

  • Reliance Group (Amante)

  • Aditya Birla Group

  • Hyundai Motors and KIA Motors

  • Stanley Black & Decker

Many of these relationships span over a decade—reflecting trust, reliability, and consistent excellence.


A Journey of Courage and Late Entrepreneurship

Uma Unni’s journey is deeply inspiring and unconventional.

After fulfilling her responsibilities as an Army wife and mother, she chose to start her entrepreneurial journey—👉 At a stage when many hesitate to begin anew

Without external support or funding, she:

  • Built the business from the ground up

  • Navigated limited access to networks and resources

  • Focused on sustainable growth and operational discipline

Her journey is a testament to the belief that:👉 It is never too late to pursue your vision


Resilience Through Challenges and Change

Over the years, Veveena has navigated multiple challenges, including:

  • Limited funding and ecosystem support in early stages

  • Scaling operations in a competitive market

  • Post-COVID disruptions and global supply chain challenges

Through strategic thinking and adaptability, the company emerged stronger—Building a foundation that is both resilient and scalable.



Leadership Rooted in Purpose and Empowerment

Uma Unni’s leadership philosophy is built on:

  • Authenticity and self-belief

  • Long-term relationship building

  • Empowering teams and collaborators

  • Creating opportunities for others—especially women

She believes that:👉 Success is not just about growth—it’s about creating impact and enabling others to grow.


Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

Uma shares a powerful and thoughtful message:

“Do not wait for validation to recognize your potential. Your perspective is your strength—own it and build your path with confidence.”

She emphasizes:

  • Embracing individuality and authenticity

  • Creating your own path instead of following norms

  • Building inclusive ecosystems

  • Lifting others as you grow


The Future

Veveena is focused on:

  • Expanding its footprint across India and global markets

  • Strengthening its position in premium corporate gifting and packaging

  • Driving innovation in design-led brand experiences

  • Promoting sustainable and socially impactful gifting solutions

The vision is to continue building a brand that represents creativity, quality, and meaningful connections.


Official Recognition

K. P. G. Uma Unni has been honored as the Winner – Women Leader in Corporate Gifting & Brand Experience at the 8th International Women Awards 2026 by Great Companies, recognizing her contribution to transforming gifting into a strategic brand experience.



About the Awards

The International Women Awards by Great Companies celebrates women leaders who are driving innovation, impact, and excellence across industries worldwide.


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