Merlee Jayme’s book ‘Ten Talks, Ten Cities’ launches in SM Aura’s Book Nook

MANILA, Philippines — Anvil Publishing and SM Aura held a book launching event for advertising veteran Merlee Jayme’s latest book.

Titled Ten Talks, Ten Cities, the author and illustrator chose 10 topics she has shared in speaking engagements worldwide, which are close to her heart. As a global creative leader, Jayme has been invited to talk on the global stage at network conferences, award shows, client conventions and creative forums.

The book is full of her experiences, mistakes and lessons learned in her celebrated 34 years in the advertising and marketing world.

Anvil Publishing president Alexandra Ramos-Padilla asked Jayme which of the 10 cities featured in her book was her favorite; to which she replied, the city of Rovinj in Croatia. “It was a lovely city with Italian influence. There was festival called Dani Kommunika, and they asked me to touch on glass ceilings and how we could smash them one by one," Jayme said.

Merle Jayme with family and friends

In the chapter on Purpose, she tackled how brands resort to being purposeful, showing their good side in selling their products. But she followed this up with consumer insight and behavior on the search for authenticity. For her, brands don’t have to push for purpose to be noticed and loved. Today, consumers, especially Gen Z, simply like brands to be straightforward, with no frills, no fakeness and not trying too hard to gain followers.

“Being real is more important today than simply having a purpose,” she said.

Marketing and advertising professionals attended the launch, and were joined by SM Aura Book Nook founder Shereen Sy and notable guests such as Vista Land’s Manny Villar, Paolo Villar and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar.