She Was Shortlisted for a Major Marketing Award—Here's What Happened Next

William Smith · 2026-10-29

Kathryn Byberg, the founder and CEO of Little Leaf Agency, just got some news that most marketers only dream about. She's been shortlisted for the Change Maker Award at the 16th Annual Global Women in Marketing (WiM) Awards. It's a big deal—not just for her, but for the entire conversation around what it means to drive real change in this industry. ### Why This Shortlist Matters The WiM Awards aren't your average industry pat on the back. They spotlight women who are actually reshaping how marketing works, from the ground up. Being named a finalist in the Change Maker category puts Byberg in a group of leaders who aren't just talking about innovation—they're building it. For those who don't know, Little Leaf Agency has quietly made a name for itself by focusing on sustainable, people-first marketing strategies. Byberg's approach? Less noise, more impact. And apparently, the judges noticed. ### The Bigger Picture Awards like this do more than celebrate one person. They send a signal about where the industry is headed. When a leader like Byberg gets recognized, it shines a light on the kind of work that often flies under the radar—work that prioritizes long-term relationships over quick wins. - **Change Makers are redefining success:** It's no longer just about the numbers (though those matter). It's about the footprint you leave. - **Women in marketing are stepping up:** The WiM Awards have been championing this for 16 years, and the shortlist keeps getting stronger. - **Agency culture is shifting:** Smaller, values-driven agencies are proving they can compete with the big guys. As Byberg put it in a recent conversation, "This recognition isn't just about me—it's about the team that believed in a different way of doing things." That quote alone says a lot about her leadership style. ### What's Next? Winners will be announced at the WiM Awards ceremony later this year. But honestly, the shortlist itself is already a win—for Byberg, for Little Leaf, and for anyone who thinks marketing can be a force for good. We'll be watching to see how this story unfolds. And if you're in marketing, maybe take a page from Byberg's book: focus on the change you want to make, and the recognition will follow.