2025 WesBank New Generation Awards Announce Trailblazing Winners

Renowned as the largest independent, performance-based accolades in social-first marketing, digital media, AI, creativity, integrated marketing, and online technology, the WesBank New Generation Awards embody the pinnacle of achievement in these vibrant fields. The winners were announced at a packed banquet ceremony in Sandton on Tuesday, 23 September. Modern Marketing is the proud media partner of these prestigious awards.

The awards, now in their thirteenth consecutive year, received over 500 submissions from the corporate, agency, and tertiary sectors, as well as from individual candidates. They honour the innovators among corporates, agencies, and individuals who embrace creativity and leverage advanced technology to elevate their brands and products, adapting to the evolving demands of today’s consumers.

Stephen Paxton, founder of the awards, remarked that this exceptional engagement is a powerful testament to South Africa’s vibrant growth in the digital and online technology sectors over the past year. ‘We extend our deepest gratitude to all participants for their outstanding contributions. The remarkable quality of this year’s submissions has truly surpassed our expectations. Many silver and bronze winners achieved the gold benchmark of 80% and above, and campaigns that received identical scores from our judges were honoured with multiple gold, silver, and bronze awards,’ said Paxton.

‘Our analysis highlighted a significant rise in Influencer Marketing, Technical Innovation, and strategic Content Marketing that resonated powerfully with audiences. Virality emerged as a pivotal force in numerous campaigns, particularly those with modest budgets. Furthermore, an increasing number of brands are boldly embracing the limitless potential of artificial intelligence.’

Paxton conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the 30 esteemed jury members for their dedication and invaluable insights throughout the judging process. Special gratitude was directed to the Headline Naming Sponsor, WesBank; Bronze Sponsors, Unilever South Africa and Algorithm Agency; Brand Sponsor, Forge By Brave; and Vehicle Brand Sponsor, Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa. ‘As an independent awards programme, sponsorship plays a crucial role in creating a truly memorable event, and we eagerly anticipate continuing these partnerships for many more inspiring gatherings in the future.’

Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank said: ‘WesBank extends its warmest congratulations to all the winners and finalists of the New Generation Awards. The ground-breaking work we saw this year is truly inspiring and is rapidly advancing the digital marketing space. This spirit of innovation perfectly reflects and aligns with WesBank’s core brand promise of moving forward with our customers. Just as these talented individuals and teams are charting new territory, we pledge to move in lockstep with the creative industry that they represent, providing the support needed to reach future milestones.’

Here are your winners:

WESBANK NEW GENERATION AWARDS 2025
https://www.newgenawards.co.za/pages/awards