In a world flooded with messages, brands, and algorithms fighting for our attention, one voice rises above the noise with a radically simple yet profoundly impactful approach: “B to B (business to business) is important, but H to H (human to Human) is what truly drives success.” That voice belongs to Mauritius’ Corinne Robert, a communications powerhouse whose journey from crime reporter to PR strategist reveals a crucial truth about the digital age: authenticity is everything.
Her name whispered in the hallowed halls of Mauritian entrepreneurship, isn’t just a PR maven; she’s a cartographer of human connection in a world increasingly dictated by algorithms. Her journey has evolved into a profound exploration of what it means to communicate authentically in a digital vortex.
The Story Begins in the Indian Ocean
Corinne was born on Réunion Island, a tiny French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, where cultures collide, and diversity thrives. It was here that she first encountered the art of storytelling—through a movie character Tintin’s adventures, no less. The young girl who once traced Tintin’s steps grew up to become a journalist, chasing real-life stories across television, radio, and print.
“At 18, I started my career in media, working across television, radio, and print,” she recalls. She spent a decade reporting on crime, social issues, and major crises like the Chikungunya outbreak, volcanic eruptions, and hurricanes—situations where communication meant survival. But something was shifting in the world of media, and she was quick to spot it.
From Breaking News to Building Reputations
In 2008, she packed her bags and landed in Mauritius, where the entrepreneurial spirit was electric. Businesses were evolving, adapting, and finding ways to thrive amid the global financial crisis. Corinne knew she could do more than just report these stories—she could help shape them.
Her narrative, as she tells it, is a masterclass in navigating the shifting sands of modern communication. “The entrepreneurial energy I saw here, especially in the face of the global financial crisis, really resonated with me,” she says.
This wasn’t merely a career shift; it was a philosophical awakening. She moved “from simply reporting on events to building and protecting reputations,” a transition that speaks to a deeper understanding of the power of narrative.
“Transitioning from journalism to PR felt like the natural next step,” she explains.
With that, her PR agency, Akheza Consulting, was born. Today, she crafts narratives for businesses in construction, hospitality, and finance, ensuring they don’t just speak—but connect.
“Effective communication is a cornerstone of any successful business,” she asserts, emphasizing that it’s about “building relationships, instilling trust, and clearly defining your brand.” In a startup landscape saturated with noise, this clarity is the difference between oblivion and resonance.
AI, Influencers, and the Future of PR
Corinne is not just riding the wave of change; she’s analyzing its every ripple. From AI-driven media monitoring to the rise of short-form video, she sees the future with razor-sharp clarity.
Her vision extends beyond the conventional. She’s a keen observer of the tectonic shifts reshaping her industry. “The public relations field is rapidly evolving,” she notes, highlighting the rise of “AI Fluency” as an “integral” component of modern communication. This isn’t dystopian speculation, but a pragmatic acknowledgment of the tools that will define the future.
“We’re at a point where AI isn’t just an add-on; it’s integral,” she says. The ability to track conversations, predict trends, and tailor messages in real-time has redefined public relations. But tech is only part of the equation, human connection is still king.
“Influencer Evolution,” she argues, is another critical trend, moving away from traditional celebrity endorsements. “Traditional celebrity endorsements are giving way to more authentic influencers, individuals who share real stories and engage meaningfully with their audiences,” she adds. Brands can no longer afford to be faceless entities; they must be relatable, transparent, and, above all, human.
This reflects a fundamental shift in consumer behavior: a yearning for genuine connection in a fabricated digital realm. And, of course, “Real Storytelling,” which is the understanding that “Consumers are more conscious than ever of a brand’s values.”
Real Estate, Lotteries, and the Art of Selling Stories
Corinne’s portfolio reads like a masterclass in high-stakes storytelling. She’s launched national lotteries in Mauritius and Madagascar, orchestrated communication campaigns for the biggest shopping mall on the Indian Ocean coast, and spearheaded branding for Grit Real Estate, a pioneer in African investment.
Her success stories—launching the National Lottery, spearheading communication for Grand Baie La Croisette the largest shopping mall on the Indian Ocean coast at that time, and navigating the complexities of Grit Real Estate, are not just bullet points on a resume. They are chapters in a larger narrative of understanding and connecting with diverse audiences.
“Working alongside the CEO, I helped develop communication strategies that highlight Africa’s transformation,” she recounts, showcasing her ability to translate complex narratives into compelling stories.
Her work is not just about selling a product; it’s about embedding narratives into the cultural and business landscape. “Managing internal communications and creating a strong company culture was another rewarding challenge,” she says of her role at Grit Real Estate. This, she believes, is where true brand power lies, not in flashy marketing, but in the values a company lives by every day.
“One of the highlights of my career was serving as the Chapter Manager for Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), coordinating global events and working with top leaders across industries.”
The Challenge of the Digital Age: Staying Authentic
In an era where businesses can be built (or destroyed) by a single tweet, navigating communication is a delicate dance. For Corinne, the key is adaptability and authenticity.
In a “fast-paced, ever-evolving entrepreneurial environment,” adaptability is paramount. “I’ve been in the field long enough to witness the transformation from the early days of computers to the hybrid work environment we see now,” she observes. “Embracing continuous learning is essential in a landscape that’s always changing.”
But how does one maintain authenticity in a world where narratives are meticulously crafted? “Authenticity is the foundation of any successful communication strategy,” Corinne insists. “I make sure to only work with clients whose values align with mine.” “From the start, it’s important that the company’s mission and story are communicated truthfully.” She believes employees should be the company’s best ambassadors, not scripted mouthpieces.
This isn’t just ethical posturing; it’s a strategic imperative. “Without authenticity, the message becomes hollow, no matter how well-crafted.”
Lessons for Entrepreneurs: The Human Side of Business
For startups and entrepreneurs looking to refine their communication strategies, Corinne offers a few golden rules:
- Start by documenting your journey – Your highs and lows. Real stories resonate.
- Identify your core values – Customers connect with purpose, not just products.
- Understand your audience – Don’t blindly follow trends; understand what resonates with your customers
- Prioritize internal communication – build a strong employer brand to attract and retain the right talent. Implement brief, purposeful meetings and make sure to regularly evaluate what’s working and what’s not
- Recognize effort – acknowledge the efforts of your team.
The Future: Beyond Business as Usual
Corinne doesn’t see an endpoint to her work. “Entrepreneurship doesn’t come with an expiration date, especially when you’re passionate about what you do,” she says. “My goal is to inspire others in return, whether through my work or by mentoring the next generation of leaders.”
Corinne’s long-term vision isn’t about climbing corporate ladders or accumulating wealth. It’s about legacy. She’s fascinated by the intersection of technology and human relationships, often drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Esther Perel. In a hyper-digital world, she believes we must not lose sight of what truly matters: human-to-human connection.
The takeaway from Corinne Robert’s journey is clear. In a world dominated by AI, algorithms, and automation, the most powerful tool in communication remains unchanged: being real. Because at the end of the day, whether you’re running a billion-dollar enterprise or a one-person startup, your brand is only as strong as the human stories behind it.
