All Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) members are encouraged to support the IAB Front Row initiative and work together to transform the industry and, in turn, the nation.
The IAB SA is proud to launch the second annual IAB Front Row initiative. Designed to give budding black creative students, entrepreneurs and agency interns much needed access to an array of industry resources and insiders, the programme plays a crucial role in the IAB SA’s commitment to galvanising transformation in the industry. Digital media and marketing students currently studying towards a digital qualification are eligible to enter IAB Front Row.
Oupa Monamodi, WPP South Africa Transformation Chair and IAB SA Transformation and Education Executive director said, ‘The Front Row initiative is an extension of the IAB SA’s remit to empower the digital marketing and media industry, specifically, by facilitating programmes and initiatives that champion transformation and education. By equipping young black creatives with the knowledge, tools and access necessary to carve out a thriving career, we are able to drive meaningful and lasting change in the industry. The power of collaborative initiatives like the Front Row programme, especially when backed by South African digital media institutions and brands, is remarkable.’
Last year’s inaugural Front Row was a tremendous success, and saw five deserving winners rewarded with an assortment of career-making prizes, including industry-relevant courses, as well as access to the ‘front row’ of industry events. Following on from last year, the benefits of being a Front Row 2021 winner are numerous and tangible. Winners will be presented with prizes that will not only reward them for their hard work, but serve as a stepping stone towards bettering their futures in the industry.
For example, 10 Front Row participants will be invited to attend this year’s 13th Annual Bookmarks Awards Virtual Showcase on the 29th July 2021, which recognises excellence in digital and the powerful impact interactive has on the overall marketing mix. Participants will also enjoy access to IAB SA key thought leadership programmes and research throughout the campaign period, with one 2021 Front Row winner being selected for a paid four month internship with the IAB SA.
Three of the Front Row 2021 winning participants will also receive access to a (non-transferable) online short course from the Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, each to the value of R16,500, to further their digital creative and business studies.
Motshidisi Mokoena, one of the 2020 Front Row winners who now has a seat on the IAB SA Transformation Council said, ‘The time for change is now, and lasting change begins with the people who will spearhead the industry tomorrow. By supporting and investing in them, we can ensure that their future, and that of the industry as a whole, is a bright one.’
The IAB SA Front Row initiative is made possible by several partners and their support and sponsorship is a direct investment into the future of the South African digital marketing and advertising industry.
Please complete this form and submit your answers, references, and entry by 18 July 2021. Your nomination will then be reviewed by the IAB SA Front Row Committee and the IAB SA Front Row Advisory Committee. All successful entrants will be notified via email by Tuesday 27 July, with all winners announced at the 13th Annual Bookmark Awards on Thursday 29 July 2021.
