media update

Why Humour Hits Home in South African Media

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:15:00 GMT

Venelize de Lange from media update considers what role humour plays in South African media by looking at Helen Zille's mayoral campaign for Johannesburg, as well as the recent localised advertisement of WeBuyCars.

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa Declares 2026 the "Year of the Customer"

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) has declared 2026 its, "Year of the Customer", a strategic focus brought to life as the company honoured its top-performing teams and countries at its annual awards ceremony.

Kantar Advertising Effectiveness Awards Reveals the Most Effective Advertising of the Year

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

CeraVe, Heinz and McVitie's lead the Kantar 2026 Advertising Effectiveness Awards, which celebrate the world's most effective, results-driving advertising.

Business to Brand Summit 2026 Ends With a Call to Build More African Brands, Not Just Market Global Ones

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The 2026 Business to Brand Summit, convened by Pat on Brands, has concluded after two days of high-level dialogue, strategic reflection and practical brand-building insight, aimed at bringing together senior corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, marketers, founders and creatives under the theme, "Africa Rising: Building Iconic Brands for a New Era."

Whose AI is it Anyway?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Let me tell you what I keep hearing in boardrooms and on Zoom calls across the marketing world: "Our agency is using AI now, so surely the fees should come down", says Monica Gomes, Managing Director of Brave Group.

Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter Announces Third Annual Gala Dinner and Auction

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has announced its third annual Gala Dinner and Auction, taking place on Saturday, 9 May at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Adreach Launches "Reach Higher" Bursary at Parktown Boys' High School

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Adreach Impact Brand Solutions, South African Out-of-Home advertising and brand solutions companies with over 26 years of experience, has announced the deepening of its longstanding partnership with Parktown Boys' High School through the introduction of an educational bursary.

Female Founders Launch South African Brand Advisory Firm — AURA

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

South Africa's brand and communications landscape is set for a notable shift. Nicole Mirkin and Lee-Ann Caboz, two of South Arica's brand and communications strategists, have joined forces to establish AURA: South Africa's Premium Brand Advisory Firm.

The United Kingdom's Big Three Out-of-Home Media Owners

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

The leaders of the United Kingdom's big three Out-of-Home media owners — Dallas Wiles and Mike Gordon — will appear together for the first time on a panel looking in-depth at the state of UK Out-of-Home, at the World Out of Home Organization's Annual Congress in London from Wednesday, 3 to Friday, 5 June.

Airport Ads Expands Digital Footprint at Lanseria International Airport

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Airport Ads has announced the installation of a new large-format Visionet digital screen on an exterior gantry at Lanseria International Airport, aimed at strengthening its integrated digital media network at the airport.

FOUR PAWS Recognises Dr Christine Steyrer and the LIONSROCK Team

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

This World Veterinary Day, Saturday, 25 April, FOUR PAWS has aimed to recognise Dr Christine Steyrer and the team behind LIONSROCK's rescued big cats.

From Fear to Confidence: How One Teacher is Learning to Think With AI Through Kitso

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The AI + Me pathway forms part of Digify Africa's broader vision to build Kitso as a WhatsApp-based learning, development and support platform for teachers across South Africa.

ASEZ Partners With Synergistic Covenant Network to Plant 100 Trees in Global Campaign

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

On the morning of Sunday, 19 April, 55 volunteers from the international award-winning organisation ASEZ gathered at the Synergistic Covenant Network in Davidsonville, Roodepoort to plant 100 fruit trees to fight climate change and bring awareness to the community at large.

Gemini is Stopping Harmful Ads Before People Ever See Them

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Our safety teams work around the clock to stop bad actors that use increasingly sophisticated, malicious ads, says Keerat Sharma, VP and General Manager, Ads Privacy and Safety.

Why Influencer Marketing Budgets Shifting Back to Authentic Creator-Led Content in 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

The South African marketing landscape has witnessed a significant recalibration of digital budgets. Penquin, a brand and communications agency, has identified a decisive shift back toward creator-led content, as audiences increasingly reject high-gloss, brand-first campaigns in favour of relatability and cultural nuance.

Gerety Awards Sets Final Deadline as Jury Insights and Global Screenings Bring the Industry Closer to the Work

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

With the final entry deadline set for Friday, 15 May, the Gerety Awards has announced a series of global initiatives designed to bring the industry closer to the work and conversations shaping the 2026 shortlist, at a key moment when industry attention turns to the ideas defining the year.

What a Faint Star Taught Us About Brand Building

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

There's a moment in our new television commercial where a young astronomer sits alone, staring at a screen full of data that isn't giving her answers. She's been searching for years. Nothing is working. But instead of walking away, she leans in, says Wendy Bergsteedt, Head of Marketing at Old Mutual Investment Group.

inDrive Launches New 'Cashless' Campaign

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

inDrive has announced the launch of its new campaign, 'Cashless', developed by inlab — inDrive's in-house creative team — aimed at turning a product update into a self-ironic admission.

OOH Capital Expands Reach With New Italian Partner

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Marco Orlandi has joined OOH Capital, the global Out-of-Home advisory company and consultancy.

How "Climate Control" Can Help Birds Survive SA's Changing Climate

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Birds, especially the urban variety, are feeling the effects of a warming planet. Higher temperatures and a lack of clean water correlate with lower bird diversity, but a new design solution is giving them relief from an unlikely source: air conditioners.

When Good PR Gets Lost in the Approval Process

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In today's landscape, attention is currency and PR looks nothing like it did a decade ago. Newsrooms are flooded with a constant stream of brand announcements, launches and "news", all while operating with significantly fewer journalists than a decade ago.

BBH Creates New Brand to Tackle Child Nutrition and School Food

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The coalition formed by Bite Back, Chefs in Schools, Jamie Oliver Group, School Food Matters and The Food Foundation has joined forces with BBH to create 'The School Food Project', whose mission is to improve the quality of school meals across the United Kingdom. BBH has developed the brand identity and a national campaign set to follow later this year.

New Self-Service Platform to Host Pre-Launch Competition Aiming to Put SMEs on the Map

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Prism, a soon-to-launch self-service platform designed to simplify digital out-of-home (DOOH) media for small businesses, has announced that it is hosting a pre-launch competition that aims to put SMEs on the map.

Is South Africa's AI Skepticism Actually a Competitive Advantage?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Artificial intelligence is no longer changing communications. It has already changed it. In the United States, OpenAI has launched ad-supported ChatGPT and is already expanding it globally, says Nompumelelo Nhlengethwa, PR and Communications Specialist.

40% of South Africa's Programmatic Ad Spend is Wasted and Most Boards Don't Know It

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

An estimated 40% of South Africa's digital programmatic advertising spend is either wasted, compromised or actively funding misinformation — a structural governance failure raising urgent concerns for marketers, CFOs and boards across the country.

NYF Advertising Announces 2026 Sports Executive Jury Led by Shannon Washington

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

New York Festivals Advertising Awards® (NYFA) has unveiled the 2026 Sports Executive Jury. Led by Jury Chair Shannon Washington, Partner at 11Ounces, this panel brings together leading voices across sports, entertainment, brands, agencies and platforms.

LUMENOCITY Scales Up Following Sold-Out Debut

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

LUMENOCITY has concluded its inaugural edition on the weekend, with a powerful proof point for the future of experiential marketing in South Africa — combining high-impact creative, strong audience turnout and a flawless operational record.

Carling Black Label Launches Limited Edition Packs Allowing Participants to Win FIFA World Cup Semi-Final Tickets

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Every four years, the FIFA World Cup attracts global attention as a major international sporting event. The tournament features leading national teams and is widely regarded as one of the most significant competitions in football.

The One Show 2026 Announces 80 Finalists From Middle East and Africa

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The One Club for Creativity has announced the entries from 51 countries and regions that have been selected as finalists for The One Show 2026, including 80 from Middle East and Africa.

TEARS Animal Rescue Announces Why Microchipping Matters This National Pet ID Week

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

TEARS Animal Rescue has encouraged pet owners to prioritise microchipping and accurate identification during National Pet ID Week, citing its role in improving the likelihood of lost pets being returned to their owners.

O&L BrandX and Namibia Dairies' 'MoreToLove' Campaign Win at MTC Branding & Marketing Excellence Awards

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

O&L BrandX, the full-service creative and experiential marketing agency of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, was crowned Agency of the Year at the inaugural MTC Branding & Marketing Excellence Awards on Friday evening, capping a three-day MTC Branding and Marketing Indaba with the most coveted accolade of the night.

The 2026 #5FMWarCryChamps Announced Live on 5FM

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

After weeks of school pride, the champions of the 2026 #5FMWarCryChamps, have been officially crowned live on 5FM's 5 Breakfast With Nick Hamman.

AI Won't Replace Digital Designers, But It Will Redefine Them

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

The burning question among digital designers today is whether they need to anticipate artificial intelligence replacing their skills, says Nini van der Walt, Graphic Design and Digital Design Lecturer at Red & Yellow Creative School for Business.

From the Gym Floor to the Corporate Boardroom: A Q&A With Mannee De Wet — Part One

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The wellness community is booming, and breaking into the fitness space — and staying there — is no easy feat. Venelize de Lange from media update spoke with Mannee De Wet from Planet Fitness about exactly how brands new to this industry can set out to succeed.

TEGS Announces Date and Venue of Its Edcation Workshop to Address South Africa's Edcation Crisis

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:30:00 GMT

TEGS (The Edcation and Graduates Summit) has announced the date and venue of its inaugural Edcation Workshop.

McDonald's South Africa Appoints Keegan Alicks as Chief Marketing Officer

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

McDonald's South Africa has announced the appointment of Keegan Alicks as Chief Marketing Officer, effective Wednesday, 1 April. This strategic appointment is aimed to reinforce the organisation's commitment to accelerating its growth strategy, 'Accelerating the Arches' and strengthening brand relevance in the South African market.

Realism is the New Black: A Q&A With Abdul-Ghakeem Samaai — Part One

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Realism in film doesn't just happen on set — it's reinterpreted and refined in post-production. Emma Mendes from media update talks to Colourist, Abdul-Ghakeem Samaai about how colour grading shapes authentic storytelling, influences mood, perception, and the overall way audiences connect with a film.

World Out of Home Organization Sets Out the Four Main Themes of its 2026 London Annual Congress

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The World Out of Home Organization's 2026 Annual Congress has announced it will return to London for the first time since 1990, aimed at highlighting the importance of creativity, sustainability and the AdNetZero carbon calculator, the increasing importance of data and measurement , as well as the global challenge of regulation creep.

The Easter Hunt Might Have Ended, But Your Campaign Strategy Is Just Starting

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Venelize de Lange from media update takes a look at Easter campaigns in 2026 and how these campaigns can benefit from post-campaign insights, showing why they are essential in helping publicists evaluate campaign success and strengthen future strategy.

IMM Institute Celebrates Marketing and Supply Chain at Gala Dinner

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:30:00 GMT

The IMM Institute has announced that it will host its annual Gala Dinner on Friday, 8 May, aimed at recognising outstanding achievement across marketing, supply chain management and business leadership at the prestigious IMM Institute Excellence Awards.

Liesl Lategan Announced as Cannes Lions 2026 South African Representative

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Cannes Lions has announced the cohort for the 2026 'See It Be It' (SIBI) talent programme, and Liesl Lategan, Executive Producer of Spitfire Films, is South Africa's representative.

Africa Creator Festival 2026 Officially Launched in Cape Town

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

The future of Africa's creator economy has taken centre stage in Cape Town, as industry leaders, media, creators and brands gathered for the official launch of the Africa Creator Festival (ACF) 2026.

South Africa's Clean Energy Innovation Reaches the Finals of the 2026 International Water, Air, Food Awards

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

South Africa earned a proud place on the world stage of community-led environmental innovation. Lathitha Biodiesel, a Johannesburg-based clean energy initiative led by Phumzile Khoza, has been selected as a 2026 Finalist for the Water Air Food Awards in the Air category.

Sizwekazi Jekwa Mdingi Joins Stellantis South Africa

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Stellantis Middle East and Africa has announced the appointment of Sizwekazi Jekwa Mdingi as the Head of Communication and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for Stellantis in South Africa.

TEARS Animals Rescue Partners With Mutt Mix

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Understanding the different breeds among the many mixed-breed dogs that pass through animal shelters can help ensure successful, long-term placements. To do this, TEARS Animal Rescue has partnered with MuttMix, a company that aims to provide simple, non-invasive DNA collection kits, which they test to determine a dog's breed composition.

How "Climate Control" Can Help Birds Survive Climate Change

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Birds, especially the urban variety, are feeling the effects of a warming planet. Higher temperatures and a lack of clean water correlate with lower bird diversity, but a new design has aimed to provide a solution to give them relief: air conditioners.

Renovation Unlocks New Futures for Deaf Children at Carel du Toit Centre

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

For children born with hearing loss, the ability to listen, speak and connect with the world can shape the course of their lives. The Carel du Toit Centre has unveiled its newly renovated facilities, aimed at strengthening its ability to support deaf and hearing-impaired children during the most critical years of development.

Vodacom Calls for Collective Action to Decarbonise Africa's Digital Economy

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

As climate pressures intensify and energy demand grows, Africa must cut carbon emissions while expanding access to reliable, affordable power that supports development, jobs and digital inclusion.

Effie South Africa and Ipsos Present the 2025 Trends Report

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Effie South Africa, in partnership with Ipsos, has released the 2025 Trends Report, aimed at offering a focused view of what the 2025 winning cases reveal about driving marketing effectiveness in South Africa.

AI Isn't Shrinking Marketing Jobs — It's Exposing a Bigger Talent Crisis

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

As generative AI accelerates content production across global marketing organisations, a new reality has emerged: the industry isn't facing a shortage of ideas, it's facing a shortage of people who can manage what AI is producing.

Visitor Registration Open for Mediatech Africa Expo 2026

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Mediatech Africa 2026 has announced that visitor registration is now open. Taking place from Tuesday, 30 June to Thursday, 2 July at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Corona Cero Shifts From "Advertising At" to "Providing For" With V&A Waterfront SunTags

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Corona Cero, a no-alcohol beer brand, has launched 'Sun Tags' at the V&A Waterfront. This creative urban initiative was designed to help South African professionals disconnect from work stress and reclaim their lunch breaks by temporarily transforming public spaces into sun-drenched relaxation zones.

Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter Holds Eighth Annual Paws on the Promenade

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Humans and four-legged friends are invited to the eighth annual Paws on the Promenade — a dog walk fundraiser by the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter, Khayelitsha, in partnership with Vondi's Holistic Pet Nutrition.

Time Square Programme Translates R1.7-Million Into 49 New Tertiary Qualifications

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Sun International, globally recognised gaming and hospitality group, provides memorable experiences for its guests, and exceptional people are needed to deliver on its brand promise.

Why Portfolio Versatility is the Next Growth Lever

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

For decades, brand growth was built around a single idea: find the hero and push it harder than anyone else. Today, that model is starting to crack, says Domaine Rautenbach, Senior Brand Manager for Jacobs.

Beware the Bargain Agency Trap: Why Going for the Cheapest Quote Can End Up Being a Horribly Costly Mistake

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

In an increasingly competitive agency environment, procurement decisions often begin (and sometimes tragically end) with the lowest bottom-line quote. Cheap quotes fit fabulously into budget spreadsheets. But going for the cheapest quote can be a very expensive mistake, says Tiffany Turkington-Palmer, Managing Director of Flow Communications.

To Rebrand or Not to Rebrand? The Strategy Behind the Decision

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 16:15:00 GMT

Venelize de Lange from media update unpacks the strategic considerations behind rebranding, helping brands determine when change is necessary and how to evolve without losing their identity.

Marketing Indaba 2026 to be Hosted in Cape Town

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Marketing Indaba 2026, a South African marketing conference, now in its 16^th year, has announced that it will be taking place on Wednesday, 22 April and Thursday, 23 April at the CTICC in Cape Town from 09:00 to 16:00 daily.

CHIETA and Sasol Launch Industry-Integrated Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training System

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

South Africa has taken a decisive step toward building the skills pipeline required for the green hydrogen economy, with the successful implementation of an industry-integrated Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training System at Sasol's operations in Sasolburg.

Leslie Jones Returns to Host The One Show

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

After bringing down the house last year, renowned Emmy winning Comedian and Actress Leslie Jones will make an encore performance to host The One Show 2026, taking place at New York's Cipriani Wall Street on Friday, 15 May as part of Creative Week 2026.

Die Kuns van Luister Sonder die Algoritmes: 'n V&A met Barnard Beukman

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Vandag se medialandskap is geen vreemdeling wanneer dit kom by die hantering van verandering nie. Terwyl mediamense 'n oorheersing deur statistieke en algoritme-gedrewe inhoud in die gesig staar, is daar steeds redaksionele stemme wat ons weer verbind met die ware betekenis van media. Kiara Ferreira van media update gesels met Barnard Beukman, Redakteur van Die Papier.

Inside the Art of Listening Without Algorithms: A Q&A With Barnard Beukman

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Today's media landscape is no stranger to accommodating immediate change. While media professionals face an increasing dominance by metrics and algorithm-driven content, there still remain editorial voices that reconnect us with the true meaning of media. Kiara Ferreira from media update speaks with Barnard Beukman, Editor of South Africa's new print publication, Die Papier.

OFM's New Year and New Look

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Central South African radio station, OFM, has started the 2026 first quarter with audience engagement, campaigns and brand growth as it celebrates 40 years on air.

Sedna Africa Strengthens Leadership Team With Two Director Appointments

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Industrial connectivity and digital transformation specialist Sedna Africa has announced the expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Shawn Nortje as Operations Director, and Raymond Mhlongo as Technical Director.

Nominations Open for the 2026 Global Citizen Award

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:30:00 GMT

International residence and citizenship planning firm Henley & Partners, in partnership with Andan Foundation, a Swiss non-profit humanitarian organisation, has announced the call for nominations for the 2026 Global Citizen Award.

Headlines and FDC Formalise Strategic Partnership

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

With leadership authority central to corporate reputation, public relations and professional digital presence have been increasingly viewed as complementary disciplines, not separate channels. PR agency, Headlines and FDC, Executive-led Marketing on LinkedIn, have announced a strategic partnership in direct response to this evolving landscape.

Crisis in Real Time: The PR Training Mystery

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Emma Mendes from media update dons her detective cap and lights up her wooden pipe to investigate what could arguably be the most intriguing publicity mystery of the decade: who really runs modern PR media training, and where are they hiding?

5FM Announces New Line-Up

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

South African youth radio station, 5FM, has unveiled its 2026 on-air line-up, introducing new voices and a deeper connection to the fast-moving world of South African youth culture.

BBC Radio 4 Appoints Rebecca Keating as Editor of Today Programme

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

BBC Radio 4 has announced that Rebecca Keating will be the new Editor of BBC Radio 4's Today Programme.

The Shift From Campaign to Continuous Newsroom: Why Brands Need an Always-On Strategy

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

We need to be honest with ourselves: the old way of doing public relations and marketing (the six-week blitz campaign followed by six months of silence) is frankly, kicking the bucket, says Martin Slabbert, Head of Newsroom at Alkemi Collective.

'CARLpool' With Kfm 94.5: A Welcome Lift Amid Rising Petrol Prices

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:30:00 GMT

With petrol prices recently soaring to new heights, Kfm 94.5 has announced that it is stepping up to join Cape Town motorists in a very special way.

Chupa Chups Launches Libre Inspired Out Of Home Campaign

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

To promote Chupa Chups' new "easy-to-open" packaging, BBH has created an OOH campaign, 'No More Wrestling', which, instead of dramatising an anodyne packaging improvement, leans into the struggle.

Menlyn Park Shopping Centre Celebrates April With its Eggventure and Peppa Pig Meet and Greet

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Menlyn Park Shopping Centre has announced its Eggventure from Wednesday, 1 April to Sunday, 5 April, and a Peppa Pig Meet and Greet on Saturday, 11 April and Sunday, 12 April, aimed at bringing families together this Easter.

Turning Everyday Bus Shelter Infrastructure Into Visible Brand Impact

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

South Africa's urban commuters represent one of the country's most consistent daily audiences. The question is how to matter to them. In a landscape where credibility is under constant scrutiny, brands are under increasing pressure to demonstrate real, visible impact in the communities they serve.

Brand Authenticity in a World of Too Much Information

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

There’s currently just too much information out in the world for consumers to handle — including a stifling amount of AI-generated advertising, content and information, much of which has the same feel because it's generated using similar AI tools, says Lara-Anne Nel, Lead Strategist at Boomtown.

The Mark Awards 2026 Open for Entries

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMT

The Mark Awards 2026 have announced that entries for the are now open, with agencies, brands and marketing teams invited to submit their work across the programme's seven pillars recognising excellence in modern marketing.

FAME Week Africa Opens Entries for 2026 Inclusive Lens Awards

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

FAME Week Africa has opened submissions for the 2026 Inclusive Lens Awards, a flagship initiative of MIP Africa that celebrates the storytellers, creators and innovators driving meaningful change through inclusive content.

Cannes Young Lions Announces Two Winning Teams

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Ster-Kinekor, the official South African representative of the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, in partnership with Heineken® Beverages has announced the winners of the Cannes Young Lions South Africa 2026 competition.

Stefan Sagmeister to Host ADC 105th Annual Awards Ceremony

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

The global Art Directors Club, part of The One Club for Creativity, has announced world-renowned designer Stefan Sagmeister will serve as host for this year's ADC 105^th Annual Awards ceremony, taking place on Wednesday, 13 May in New York as part of Creative Week 2026.

Busting Pervasive Myths About Account-Based Marketing (ABM)

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Take a moment to imagine this scenario: A prominent South African CEO starts each day the same way, by dropping her children off at school and then stopping to grab a coffee on her way to the office. She chooses to have her coffee the same way every morning: No sugar, almond milk, says Kathryn McKay, Chief Creative Officer at Black & White, part of The Up&Up Group.

Stories That Matter: At the Heart of Easter — The Editor's Note

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Easter is easily perceived as the yearly opportunity to indulge in chocolate eggs, public holidays and family time — but how many of us are aware of Easter's true significance? As we celebrate the year's dedicated time of reflection, renewal and meaning, Kiara Ferreira from media update explores what Easter represents for the media industry.

Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter Partners With Vondi's Holistic Pet Nutrition for Paws on the Promenade

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter, Khayelitsha, in partnership with Vondi's Holistic Pet Nutrition, has announced the eighth addition of the annual dog-walking fundraiser, Paws on the Promenade.

5FM and Connect Entertainment Partner for Anjunadeep, Festival De Mexico and Big Fat Greek Festival

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

5FM has announceed a partnership with Connect Entertainment that aims to bring the country's most iconic lifestyle and music events straight into the heart of the 5 Nation.

FAME Week Africa Wins Best Overall Exhibition at 2025 AAXO Awards

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT

FAME Week Africa has won top honours at the 2025 AAXO (Association of African Exhibition Organisers) Awards, winning Best Overall Exhibition, an accolade reserved for the outstanding and high-impact exhibition platforms.

Provantage Recycles 4.7 Tonnes of Waste, Delivering Measurable Environmental and Governance Impact

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Provantage has reinforced its commitment to environmental stewardship by recycling 4.7 tonnes of paper and electronic waste in the past year.

Localising Easter Campaigns — How to Balance Faith and Commercialisation in the South African Market

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Venelize de Lange from media update looks at how South African brands can effectively localise Easter campaigns to build engagement and avoid public missteps.

World Stray Animal Day: South Africa's Stray Animal Crisis needs Humane Solutions

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:09:30 GMT

In the lead-up to World Stray Animal Day, Saturdaay 4 April, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has brought attention on South Africa's growing stray animal crisis, an issue impacting animal welfare, public health and community safety.

Droga5 Shines a Light on Marine Conservation Through Series of Handcrafted Screen-Printed Artworks

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Droga5 São Paulo, a creative advertising agency, today announces the second phase of 'Lifeless Flag', a campaign created for SOS Oceano (SOS Ocean), a coalition of NGOs advocating for the expansion of marine protected areas.

Jean-Francois Decaux to Headline the World Out of Home Organization 2026 Annual Congress

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Jean-François Decaux, Co-CEO and Chairman of JCDecaux, and eldest son of Founder Jean-Claude Decaux, has been appointed the keynote speaker at the World Out of Home Organization's 2026 Annual Congress in London from Wednesday, 3 to Friday, 5 June.

Golf & Beyond Partners With Kaya 959 for the Black Excellence Golf Day

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Golf & Beyond has announced Kaya 959 as the official media partner for the Black Excellence Golf Day and Awards Ceremony, set to take place on Thursday, 9 April.

Emeris Brand Positioning Reflects a Shift in South African Education

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:00 GMT

At a time when the world of work is changing and entry-level candidates have to compete not only with other job seekers, but with technology, educational institutions must also adapt. Newly re-branded Emeris offers a glimpse at the future of tertiary education brand positioning in South Africa.

African Media Agency Joins Brand Africa, African Business and MiPAD to Launch ACMO 100

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Initiated by Brand Africa, in partnership with African Business, MiPAD and AMA, African Media Angency has annonced the launch of the ACMO 100, the first benchmark ranking dedicated to African marketing professionals.

METRO FM's METRO FM Talk With Faith Mangope Shortlisted for 2026 New York Festivals Radio Award

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Starting off METRO FM's 40^th year, the station's flagship talk show, METRO FM Talk with Faith Mangope, has been shortlisted for the 2026 New York Festivals Radio Awards in the Talk Programme category.

WESSA Recognises 46 Kwa-Zulu Natal Schools for Driving Environmental Action

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:45:00 GMT

KwaZulu-Natal's commitment to environmental education and youth-led action was celebrated at the 2025 Eco-Schools Awards Ceremony, held on Saturday, 21 March (Human Rights Day) at the Willow Way Manor in Durban.

Cotlands Hosts Run to Play This Human Rights Month

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:30:00 GMT

March, recognised as Human Rights Month, is a time to reflect on the fundamental rights of all South Africans. For Cotlands, it has been a reminder that every child has the right to play, yet over a million young children in South Africa still do not have access to early learning programmes.

Walter Sisulu University Launches University of the Future Model

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:30:00 GMT

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) has officially unveiled its new brand identity at the Mthatha campus, marking the realisation of its, "University of the Future" model.

School Holidays are for Every Kind of Play — But Parents Must Encourage "Even Play"

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The South African school holidays have arrived. Starting with Public schools signing out from Saturday, 28 March, families across the country will pause, slow down and ask the same question: How do I keep my child busy and learning during the break?

Four Climate Ventures to Receive USD$273 000 in Follow-on Support From BFA Global and FSD Africa

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:00:00 GMT

BFA Global and FSD Africa thave announced USD$273 000 in follow-on funding and venture-building support for four early-stage alumni of previous Triggering Exponential Climate Action (TECA) venture-building programme cohorts.

Shoprite Group Achieves a Zero Waste to Landfill Certification

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:30:00 GMT

The Shoprite Group's Centurion Distribution Centre has achieved a Level 2 Zero Waste to Landfill certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), aimed at marking a significant milestone for sustainable retail logistics in South Africa.

The 2026 Bookmark Awards IAB South Africa Announces Full Jury Panel

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Every year, a room of South Africa's most experienced digital practitioners sit down and make a call: what work was genuinely excellent, and what merely looked like it was.