Economic downturn, slowdown, recession — call it what you will. The bad economy has affected many businesses in Bermuda. And when times are tight, experts say brand can drive growth in an up market or protect a company’s value in a down market.That’s why BEPRO, promoters of the popular ‘Lunch ‘N Learn’ series will be holding a seminar next week that’s all about branding.BEPRO (Bermuda’s Emerging Professionals) will host the event on Tuesday, October 30 from 12 to 1pm at the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce.Featured at the event, “What’s In Your Brand” is guest speaker, Rhona Emmerson, president and creative director of AAC Saatchi & Saatchi. Mrs Emmerson will educate attendees on the fundamentals of branding with emphasis on how to define and build your own personal brand.Mrs Emmerson, who has lived in Bermuda her entire life, studied graphic arts at Ryerson Polytechnic Institute and graduated from George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology with a diploma in Graphic Design.After completing her education she returned to Bermuda to hone her craft.Throughout her career, she has amassed more than 25 years’ experience in marketing communicationsMrs Emmerson is also an accomplished painter and avid member of Plein Aire Painters of Bermuda. She actively paints for both agency projects and galleries using water colours, acrylics, and her medium of choice, oil painting.Her works are held in private collections around the world and can also be seen on many souvenirs and gifts sold across Bermuda.“This is a rare opportunity to learn from one of Bermuda’s premier experts in the creative field of marketing communications,” BEPRO said in a statement. “As with all our events, we hope you leave with the necessary tools to begin the construction of your very own unique brand experience.”For more information or to RSVP for the event, contact Velina Wheatley at vwheatley@bcc.bm or call 295-8932.