How AI Is Being Used To Reshape Retail In South Africa

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August 1, 2025

How AI Is Being Used To Reshape Retail In South Africa — Jeané van Greunen, Helm.

For retailers, embracing AI isn’t just about future-proofing their businesses, it’s about unlocking smarter, faster and, believe it or not, more human ways of working that will ultimately benefit the customer, the team and the bottom line. From predicting stock needs and personalising customer journeys to freeing up in-store teams from repetitive admin, AI isn’t just making retail more efficient. Surprisingly to some, it’s making it more human.

‘Retail has always been about people. Meeting their needs, building loyalty and creating a connection,’ said Jeané van Greunen, Chief Client Officer at Helm. ‘What AI allows us to do is add that personal touch at scale, with more accuracy, efficiency and empathy.’

When people think of AI in retail, they often imagine robots, self-checkouts, or talking screens. But some of the most powerful innovations are happening behind the scenes. A key area that’s benefiting is inventory management. Thanks to machine learning, retailers are now moving from reactive stock planning to predictive models that factor in everything from the weather to local buying trends.

That means less waste, fewer empty shelves, and more happy customers. And it gives staff more time to focus on what they do best, which is helping people and building those relationships.

Another major benefit lies in dynamic pricing. AI can analyse real-time data to optimise promotions and protect margins in a fast-moving, highly competitive environment.

‘We’re seeing AI support retailers in making thousands of micro-decisions each day. Those decisions no human team could possibly keep up with alone,’ said Van Greunen. ‘But it’s not about removing people from the process. It’s about making those processes more intelligent and responsive, and ultimately, more human.’

AI is also transforming customer-facing experiences often in ways that feel effortless. From virtual fitting rooms and smart search tools to in-app product suggestions that feel helpful (not creepy), machine learning is making shopping more personal and less transactional.

It’s happening in-store too with heatmaps and traffic analytics to help retailers improve store layouts. Voice assistants and AI-powered chatbots guide customers and allow human staff to focus on relationship-building, not repetitive queries.

‘Some retailers worry that AI will make the experience colder,’ said Van Greunen. ‘But the opposite is true. It’s helping brands become more responsive, relevant, and emotionally intelligent. People still buy from people and AI just helps those people shine.’

One of AI’s most underrated benefits in retail is how it supports teams on the ground. Automating low-value, time-consuming tasks like scheduling, reporting, or basic troubleshooting means staff have more time and more headspace to deliver real value.

‘When you give your people the tools to be more effective, they feel more engaged. They perform better, stay longer, and become true ambassadors for your brand. That’s where AI and people strategy come together.’

AI and automation should be designed around people and not the other way around. That’s why it’s important to partner with retailers to reimagine customer and employee journeys that are strategic and scalable, but most importantly, human. From intelligent automation to data-led CX strategies, agencies can help retail businesses make AI work in the real world – not as a gimmick or a quick fix, but as a genuine driver of value and long-term, sustainable growth.

‘We’ve worked across industries, and the same message keeps coming up: retailers want to evolve, without giving up what makes them unique,’ said van Greunen. ‘Our role is to help them use AI to elevate that uniqueness, not replace it.’

In a sector where margins are thin and expectations are high, AI has become indispensable in gaining and maintaining a competitive edge. When used wisely, it can boost loyalty, cut costs, improve efficiency and above all, empower the people at the heart of the business.

Just like customer demands keep changing, retail will keep moving, but with the right technology and a human-centred approach, that move will always be in the right direction.

HELM
www.helm.africa

WesBank Supports Marketing Innovation And Excellence With New Generation Awards Sponsorship

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Meggan McCarthy, Modern Marketing

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August 1, 2025

WesBank Supports Marketing Innovation And Excellence With New Generation Awards Sponsorship — Lebogang Gaoaketse, WesBank.

WesBank was recently announced as the Platinum Headline Naming Sponsor of this year’s New Generation Awards. The awards are recognised as the largest independent, performance-based accolades in social-first marketing, digital media, AI, creativity, integrated marketing, and online technology.

As a media partner of the WesBank New Generation Awards, Modern Marketing interviewed Lebogang Gaoaketse, WesBank Head of Marketing and Communication. Gaoaketse gives insight into WesBank’s strategic partnership with the New Generation Awards; what it takes to create a successful marketing campaign; as well as the marketing trends that are making an impact in 2025.

Why did WesBank get involved as Platinum Headline Naming Sponsor of this year’s New Generation Awards?

The New Generation Awards recognises and celebrates innovation that is geared towards advancing South Africa into the new age. This aligns perfectly with WesBank’s brand ethos of moving with our customers and empowering progressive growth by supporting innovation and excellence across diverse industries.

What value will WesBank bring to the awards?

The partnership leverages WesBank’s more than 50 years of experience and heritage as an innovator in the financial services sector – innovation that has catapulted WesBank to the very pinnacle of the industry. Beyond the awards, WesBank aims to be an active partner to the individuals and organisations that are represented in the New Generation Awards to help them grow in their respective fields.

WesBank has proudly sponsored a number of award categories. Which are you most excited about, and are there any particular categories that resonate with WesBank’s marketing strategies?

We are excited to be associated with the New Generation Awards across the entire spectrum of categories. However, in our maiden year as a sponsor, we have placed a special focus on, and sponsored most of the digital campaign awards because we are particularly excited about how this landscape has evolved over the past few years.

It is a great platform to engage customers while creating access to multiple products and solutions as well as allowing them to have fun through things like gamification and AI. The category has a cross-cutting appeal across different demographics, customer segments and even income groups, which is what our campaigns are also about. They are hinged on access to information that enables our customers to make wise financial decisions now and into the future as we move with them through their life stages.

The New Gen Awards aim to ignite a spirit of excellence and challenge participants to push the boundaries of innovation. How is WesBank doing this for both their marketing, and company?

In an era that’s characterised by short attention spans and the ability to skip advertising messages, the best marketing campaigns are the ones that can retain customer interest by clearly demonstrating product benefits without coming across as just another sales pitch.

WesBank’s consumer education campaign is one such programme that prioritises the liberalisation of financial education to enable customers to make informed decisions when buying a vehicle, while at the same time demonstrating how WesBank cares for its customers and South African car buyers in general. A big part of the campaign, and a first for the industry, is WesBank’s African Language consumer education campaign, executed across various African language radio stations and social media platforms to deliver financial education in a language that the South African masses can easily understand.

In addition to this, WesBank has several other groundbreaking and evergreen campaigns, such as our scam awareness campaign, that not only serve our customers but are for the greater good of society. We also started our podcast channel, WesBank Talks Finance, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic so people could have access to information even during dire times.

What does it take to create not only an award-winning marketing campaign, but one that truly resonates with consumers?

Solving real world consumer challenges should be the main focus for any marketing campaign, before thought is given to the prospect of winning an award. The aim should always be to develop a tailored campaign that resonates with the intended audience by either addressing an existing challenge or creating new demand and finding solutions for it. If well executed along these parameters, the chances of winning an award become exponential for any campaign.

What are the top three marketing trends for 2025?

The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) has been felt across multiple sectors, and marketing has not been spared. While the numerous AI-powered tools have drawn criticism among some industry pundits, their impact on productivity cannot be ignored. Integrating AI in the marketing mix is therefore imperative to remain agile and responsive to fast-evolving market needs.

On the media front, podcasts have proven to be more than just a passing craze. They have cemented their role as a media platform to a point where traditional players are seeking ways to leverage the appeal of podcasts across all demographic groups.

Data-driven marketing has enabled personalisation at an unprecedented level. The ability to tailor marketing campaigns for specific audiences has resulted in more impactful campaigns, with minimal wastage.

WesBank New Generation Awards Ceremony

This year’s awards gala ceremony will dazzle on Tuesday, September 23rd, at the luxurious NH Sandton. It will be hosted by the brilliant Lebo Mokoena (The Mood Engineer), and is powered by Monster Productions. Save the date, because this is set to be the highlight of the SA awards calendar. For more information about tickets, please email: stephen@newgenawards.co.za

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

WESBANK
https://www.wesbank.co.za/home/

Hook, Line & Sinker Appointed As Communications Partner For The WWF

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Modern Marketing

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July 31, 2025

Hook, Line & Sinker Appointed As A Communications Partner For The WWF

World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organisations with operations in nearly 100 countries. Hook, Line & Sinker (HLS) has been appointed as a communications partner for WWF South Africa following a competitive three-way pitch process involving some of the country’s leading agencies.

Under the new mandate, HLS will deliver an integrated communications strategy to drive awareness and public engagement in support of WWF South Africa’s critical environmental mission, for people and nature.

The agency’s in-house podcast and TV studio will also play a pivotal role in creating platform-native storytelling and owned content that brings WWF’s mission to life.
‘This is more than a new client win, it’s a partnership built on shared values,’ said Emma Rijkers, Deputy Managing Director of Hook, Line & Sinker. ‘WWF South Africa plays an important role in protecting people and nature, and we’re honoured to help shape that message and amplify it across national and global platforms.’

Pedzi Gozo, Executive Manager of Strategic Communications at WWF South Africa, added, ‘WWF South Africa required a digital PR partner that not only understands strategic communications but also how to connect emotionally and credibly with both people and policy. With a track record of award-winning purpose-led campaigns and shaping conversations for global power brands, HLS is poised to help WWF South Africa raise awareness of what matters most: our natural world.’

HOOK, LINE & SINKER
www.hooklinesinker.biz

PR Pros Should Balance Human Creativity With Data-Driven Ingenuity

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Modern Marketing

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July 30, 2025

PR Pros Should Balance Human Creativity With Data-Driven Ingenuity — Credit: Aarón Blanco Tejedor, Unsplash.

Icandi CQ says PR professionals are the ones who keep brands human, relevant and credible in an increasingly tech-driven and fast-paced world. So, how do we stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape?

Challenge 1: Influencer Fatigue – Authenticity Over Sponsorships

Influencer marketing has been a key component of modern communication strategies for some time now, but audiences are growing weary. They’ve seen it all – the over-promoted products, the scripted content, and influencers whose primary interest seems to be a paycheque rather than a genuine connection with their audience.

Yet the power of influence hasn’t disappeared. According to Meltwater (April 2025), 33.6% of South African social media users follow influencers, and 93% of them say influencer recommendations impact their purchase decisions. What’s changed is who they trust: micro and nano influencers (5K–30K followers), valued for stronger engagement, community connection, and better ROI, are winning in the South African market.

PR professionals can strengthen their impact by fostering authentic, natural-feeling collaborations that go beyond paid endorsements. Micro-influencers, who boast smaller but more engaged audiences, are an ideal solution. These influencers come across as real people rather than walking advertisements, making their endorsements more believable and impactful. When the story is real, people listen.

Challenge 2: Cutting through the noise – quality over quantity

Today, everyone has a voice. The digital space is saturated and every brand, influencer and consumer is vying for attention.

Shifting the focus from quantity to quality with niche, targeted content will be more effective than a broad, one-size-fits-all approach. Consumers want meaningful engagement. Think about how Nando’s turned their user-generated #NandosMoments content into a powerful tool for connecting their brand to the everyday lives of their customers. The content didn’t need to be flawless, it needed to be real.

The lesson here? Be authentic and engage with your community. Don’t try to appeal to everyone – build relationships with those who resonate with your brand story. That’s the way to stand out in an oversaturated market.

Challenge 3: Data-Driven PR – Can Analytics Inspire Creativity?

Tools like social listening, sentiment analysis and audience tracking provide a wealth of insights. South African brands are increasingly using analytics to refine influencer campaigns, particularly in selecting micro-influencers to achieve stronger ROI per rand spent (Meltwater).

The problem? Data can tell you what worked, but it can’t always predict what will inspire next. So, how do you balance data with the human touch needed for compelling storytelling? The solution is to blend data-driven insights with creativity. Use analytics to inform your strategy and use data to understand what’s resonating with audiences, but don’t let it stifle the innovation that drives truly memorable campaigns.

Challenge 4: Social Media Overload – Standing Out Amidst The Noise

With billions of active users across social media platforms, standing out isn’t just hard, it’s almost impossible without a strong strategy. In South Africa, 93.9% use WhatsApp, 71.8% Instagram, and 73.6% TikTok, making it one of the most connected markets globally.

Personalisation is key. It’s no longer enough to simply have a presence on every platform. Brands need to move beyond broad broadcasting. Focus on content that speaks to your audience’s values and deliver it through channels that feel personal – micro-influencers or user-generated content often outperform generic brand posts. The takeaway? Stop broadcasting and start engaging. Build loyal communities who care about your brand and share your values.

Challenge 5: The Trust Dilemma – Building Faith And Credibility

Trust is fragile. With fake news and viral outrage taking centre stage, how do brands rebuild confidence once it’s lost? The answer isn’t just reactive, it’s proactive. In Edelman’s 2025 South Africa Trust Barometer, 68% trust business and 78% trust their employer, but only 36% trust government.

Brands need to establish transparency as the cornerstone of their communication strategy. Discovery Health, for example, during the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just react to the crisis; they proactively communicated protocols, clarified insurance processes, and supported frontline workers. This transparency didn’t just reassure their members, it reinforced their trustworthiness. In 2025, brands need to own mistakes, stay transparent and always communicate openly.

Challenge 6: The Trouble With Tech – Enhancing Human Storytelling Not Replacing It

While AI, blockchain, and big data have changed the environment in which PR professionals operate, providing opportunities and tools to enhance the human storytelling experience, empathy and creativity remain irreplaceable.

AI-powered media monitoring and social listening tools are invaluable, but only 41% of South Africans say they’re comfortable with AI when societal inequality or grievance feels high (Edelman Africa, 2025). Tech gives better insights, faster responses and more accurate predictions, but it can’t replicate empathy, creativity and authenticity. At the heart of every successful PR campaign is a story that connects emotionally with people. Tech will never replace that.

Five Ways To Stay Relevant In 2025

– Be ready to act fast: Invest in real-time social listening to track sentiment and engage before issues escalate.
– Choose authenticity over perfection: People connect with real stories. Focus on building genuine relationships.
– Lead with transparency: Trust isn’t built during good times, it’s earned during tough times. Be honest, even when it’s uncomfortable.
– Embrace tech but don’t lose the human touch: Use AI and data to amplify human storytelling, not replace it.
– Create communities, not campaigns: Build long-term, meaningful relationships with your audience. Engage, listen and involve them in your journey.

PR Isn’t Dead, It’s Evolving

The PR industry of 2025 isn’t just about managing media relations or getting coverage – it’s about becoming an authentic, transparent voice in a world full of noise. By embracing technology, balancing data with creativity, and building genuine, values-driven connections with consumers, PR professionals can not only stay relevant, they can lead the way into the next chapter of the industry – one engaged community at a time.

ICANDI CQ
https://www.icandicq.co.za

Tips For Effective Networking

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Modern Marketing

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July 30, 2025

In an increasingly connected world, the power of networking has never been more vital, not just for personal growth, but for business longevity. Sean Devlin, Business Development Director of Penquin, says networking isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’, it’s a business essential.

‘Building a network is about so much more than swapping business cards or connecting on LinkedIn,’ said Devlin. ‘It’s about cultivating authentic relationships that are mutually beneficial, built on trust, and nurtured over time. Networking isan investment in your professional journey and a way to create a strong support system. In the South African business landscape, where relationships are highly valued, networking can be a game-changer.’

As Penquin’s Business Development Director, Devlin is on the front lines of cultivating strategic connections. He has seen first-hand how a well-developed network is crucial for navigating market disruptions and leveraging digital evolution, proving that human connections remain the bedrock of business success.

Devlin believes that many people view networking as a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can become a rewarding and enjoyable experience. He offers the following tips for effective networking:

Be authentic: ‘People can sense when you’re not being genuine,’ Devlin advised. ‘Focus on building real relationships based on shared interests and mutual respect. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and let your passion shine through.’

Listen more than you talk: ‘Networking is about learning from others and understanding their perspectives,’ Devlin explained. ‘Ask open-ended questions, listen attentively, and show a genuine interest in what others have to say. You’ll be surprised how much you can gain by simply listening.’

Offer value: ‘Don’t just think about what you can get from others; think about what you can offer them,’ Devlin added. ‘Share your knowledge and expertise, connect people in your network, and look for ways to support their goals. The more value you provide, the more you’ll get in return.’

Follow up: ‘The real work of networking begins after the initial meeting,’ Devlin continued. ‘Follow up with a personalised email or LinkedIn message to reiterate your interest, offer any resources you discussed, and suggest a way to stay in touch. Nurture your connections over time.’

Be consistent: ‘Networking is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process,’ Devlin concluded. ‘Make networking a regular part of your professional life. Attend industry events, join relevant organisations, and schedule regular catch-ups with your contacts. The more you invest in your network, the stronger it will become.’

Devlin understands that networking can be particularly challenging in certain industries or for individuals who are introverted. However, he believes that with practice and a strategic approach, anyone can become a skilled networker. ‘Start small, set realistic goals, and celebrate your progress,’ he encouraged. ‘Remember that every connection you make has the potential to lead to something amazing. So, put yourself out there, be open to new possibilities, and embrace the power of networking.’

PENQUIN
https://www.penquin.co.za

Nedbank IMC Conference Champions Young Talent

By

Modern Marketing

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July 29, 2025

Nedbank IMC Conference Champions Young Talent — Mukona Ligege, AAA School of Advertising.

With youth unemployment currently at 46.1% according to Stats SA, creating a meaningful opportunity for young marketers is more crucial than ever. The IMC remains firmly committed to nurturing and uplifting the next generation of marketing leaders. Young talent is redefining marketing, and this year’s inaugural Youth Panel at the 2025 Nedbank IMC Conference is giving them the platform they deserve. Modern Marketing is a proud media partner of the event.

‘We don’t just talk about empowering youth, we invest in them,’ said Dale Hefer, CEO of the IMC. ‘Since our launch in 2019, we’ve provided 12 tertiary bursaries (in partnership with Red & Yellow Creative School of Business) and over R1 million in student attendance value as part of our YOUTH1000 initiative together with the Marketing Association of SA (MASA).’

This year, Africa’s biggest marketing conference is ensuring that young marketers have a seat at the table.

The ‘Appreciating Assets: Our Rising Stars Speak Out’ panel on the 18th September will give emerging leaders the chance to share their perspectives on marketing’s evolving role as a driver of real business growth, echoing the conference theme: Marketing is Business. Hosted by industry trailblazer, Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank, the panellists include:

– Mukona Ligege, AAA School of Advertising.
– Micaela Wathen, University of Pretoria.
– Nozizwe Sibisi, University of Johannesburg.

The panel forms part of a broader conversation about how young professionals can thrive in an industry undergoing rapid transformation, from the rise of AI and digital tools to the demand for purpose-driven brands.

This panel is more than just a dialogue, it promises authentic and honest insights too. The Nedbank IMC is committed to building real pathways for South Africa’s rising stars and their message is clear: investing in young marketers is not charity, it is essential, smart business.

Attend in-person or online. Venue: Mosaiek Teatro. 1 Danielle Street, Fairland, 2030. Early bird phases sold out. In-person tickets priced at R4000 (excl. VAT). Limited seats available. No allocated seating. Virtual tickets priced at R950 (excl. VAT). Book now.

NEDBANK IMC CONFERENCE
www.imcconference.com

Nashua Launches New Campaign

By

Modern Marketing

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July 29, 2025

Nashua recently launched its national More Than Print campaign to showcase its evolution into a full-service ICT solutions provider. The campaign will run across Primedia outdoor sites and radio stations and aims to connect with business decision-makers.

Four distinct radio spots will highlight the full range of Nashua’s capabilities – from communication and connectivity to cybersecurity, energy solutions, and cloud-based document management.

Conceptualised by The Whalley Collective, the outdoor and radio campaign spotlights Nashua’s full range of total workspace solutions for businesses of all sizes.

‘For more than 50 years, Nashua has been a trusted office automation partner for companies nationwide,’ said Nashua Chief Marketing Officer, Yumna Ahmed. ‘Today, however, we do much more than print. We provide end-to-end technology solutions that help businesses connect, secure, digitise, and power their operations. This campaign is about highlighting the depth and breadth of our offering.’

Launched as a specialist in liquid toner copiers in 1973, Nashua has evolved its business along with advances in technology, from analogue copiers and fax machines to cloud computing and AI-powered surveillance.

In recent years, the company has made bold moves into growth markets such as energy management and digital workflow automation. ‘Technology moves fast, but our commitment to saving our customers time, money and putting them first has remained constant,’ said Ahmed. ‘Our franchisees work closely with local businesses, helping them make smarter decisions and future-proof their operations.’

‘With trends such as hybrid work, green energy and AI reshaping the world of business, the need for trusted technology partners is greater than ever. The More Than Print campaign demonstrates that Nashua is here to help businesses prepare for the future of work, building on the foundations of our legacy in the South African technology market.’

Nashua CEO, Barry Venter added: ‘At Nashua, we’re driven by challenge and change. We’ve had to be agile, to remain relevant for over five decades. We aim to help our customers push forward, think differently, and find smarter ways of working. Our role goes far beyond supplying tech products and services towards enabling our clients to be more competitive, flexible, and efficient in a digital world.’

NASHUA
www.nashua.co.za

Submit Your Nominations For AMC Marketing Awards

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Modern Marketing

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July 28, 2025

Submit Your Nominations For AMC Marketing Awards — Helen McIntee, AMC.

Nominations for sought after awards that will be bestowed on top marketers will be closing soon and companies and colleagues are encouraged to put their brightest talent forward so that Africa’s top talent can be honoured. The award ceremony will be held during the African Marketing Confederation (AMC) Conference gala dinner at the conclusion of the annual event, which will be held between 20 and 22 August at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Ghana.

Helen McIntee, AMC President and Co-Founder, explained that the illustrious event celebrates and acknowledges outstanding marketing campaigns and the visionary individuals behind them. ‘The awards presented honour not only the groundbreaking strategies and creative brilliance that set these campaigns apart but also the exceptional leadership and innovation that drive success in the marketing arena,’ she said.

Nominations are being accepted in the following categories until midnight on 3 August:

Tourism And Destination Marketing Campaign Of The Year

This category recognises the most outstanding marketing campaign within the tourism and destination marketing sector. The winning campaign should have demonstrated exceptional creativity in promoting travel, tourism, and hospitality services, significantly impacting the brand’s visibility and business outcomes. The campaign should effectively engage target audiences, inspire action, and contribute to the growth in the number and value of travellers to the destination.

Best Social Media Campaign Of The Year

This category celebrates the most effective and creative use of social media platforms in a marketing campaign. The winning entry should demonstrate a deep understanding of social media dynamics, leveraging content, storytelling, and community engagement to drive significant brand awareness, engagement, and business results. The campaign should stand out for its originality, execution, and ability to connect meaningfully with the audience.

Most Effective Campaign Of The Year

This category honours the campaign that achieved the most significant business impact, driven by the strategic use of technology, data, and innovative approaches. The winning campaign should showcase excellence in setting and surpassing key performance indicators, leveraging technology to optimise performance, and achieving exceptional returns on investment.

Best Cause-Related Campaign

This category recognises the most impactful campaign aligning a brand with a social cause or issue. The winning campaign should demonstrate a genuine commitment to making a difference, creatively and effectively raising awareness, driving action such as behaviour change, and contributing positively to the cause. It should showcase how the brand’s involvement brought about meaningful change while enhancing brand reputation and loyalty.

Best Use of Local Insights

This category celebrates campaigns that have successfully tapped into local culture, traditions, and consumer behaviour to create highly resonant and effective marketing communications. The winning entry should demonstrate a deep understanding of the local market, reflecting cultural nuances to enhance the brand’s connection with its audience.

Campaign Of The Year

This top honour is awarded to the campaign that stands out as the most outstanding marketing effort of the year. The winning campaign should demonstrate a perfect blend of creativity, strategic insight, and execution, resulting in extraordinary impact and effectiveness. It should serve as a benchmark for excellence in the marketing industry.

Brand Of The Year

This prestigious category honours the brand that has demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and leadership in the marketing industry over the past year. The winning brand should exemplify excellence across various campaigns and initiatives, showing consistency in creativity, effectiveness, and engagement with its audience. The brand’s impact on the market, cultural relevance, and ability to set new industry standards will be critical factors.

Those who have been nominated are sure to feel the tension until the shortlisted candidates are announced on 7 August, with the winners’ names set to be broadcast to delegates during the Gala Dinner on 22 August.

‘I look forward to seeing the calibre of Africa’s most exceptional marketing talent walk up onto the stage to collect their trophies,’ said McIntee. ‘It’s certainly going to be an evening of celebration of the talent this continent has to offer!’

Among 2024’s winners were brand names such as Stanbic Bank Uganda, the Guinness Match Day campaign by Guinness Kenya, as well as Saving the Caps by WhiteCap Kenya.

For submission requirements, visit the website here.

AFRICAN MARKETING CONFEDERATION
www.africanmarketingconfederation.org

Win A Virtual Ticket To Africa’s Biggest Marketing Conference

By

Meggan McCarthy, Modern Marketing

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July 24, 2025

Win A Virtual Ticket To Africa's Biggest Marketing Conference

You could win one of 10 virtual tickets, worth over R1000 each, to the Nedbank IMC, Africa’s foremost marketing conference featuring the best of global and local thought leaders. Modern Marketing is a proud media partner.

To enter, comment on our Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn Nedbank IMC post, telling us: What is the key to a successful marketing campaign? If your answer is thought-provoking enough, you could win a ticket to the virtual event. The conference features 26 speakers, 6 of them international keynotes, who will deliver their unique insights and offerings.

This year’s theme is dedicated to the mantra, ‘Marketing is Business®’ and the conference’s formidable array of thought leaders will be doing a dive deep into the business of marketing, and how to ensure it delivers results that matter. The event takes place on 18th September.

NEDBANK IMC CONFERENCE
www.imcconference.com

WesBank New Generation Awards Announces Prestigious Jury

By

Modern Marketing

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July 23, 2025

WesBank New Generation Awards Announces Prestigious Jury

The WesBank New Generation Awards are recognised as the largest independent, performance-based accolades in social-first marketing, digital media, AI, creativity, integrated marketing, and online technology. The jury, which consists of industry leaders and creative luminaries, has been announced. Modern Marketing is a proud media partner of the awards.

Stephen Paxton, the founder of the awards, commented, ‘This year’s selection of jury members comprises a diverse array of distinguished agency owners, chief executive officers, managing directors, creative strategists, marketers, designers, heads of influence, chief growth officers, and leaders in artificial intelligence. Each member has been selected for their distinct expertise and insights, which are derived from extensive experience with prominent local brands as well as some of the most prestigious global brands.’

‘Spanning various industry sectors and backgrounds in both agency and corporate settings, the collective expertise of our panel reflects multiple generations, including Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z, which ensures a vast perspective across this year’s submissions. Judges have indicated that entrants are required to include measurable objectives and benchmarks for success, along with substantiating evidence that these have been achieved or surpassed. In the absence of these components, the judges will be unable to accurately evaluate the results and effectiveness of the campaign. It is imperative that entries are well-composed; participants should ensure their submissions are distinctive, clear, grammatically correct, and concise in articulating the rationale for their entry.’

New Gen Jury Members announced:

Arpan Sur	Senior Director, Marketing- Sub-Saharan Africa	Mondelez International
Emma Odendaal	Head of Influence, EMEA	Dentsu
Andrew Berry	Managing Director	The Bread
Dustin Carr	Managing Director: Brand and Performance	Clockwork
Jeremy Crowder	Managing Partner	Dialogue
Jacques Cronje	Marketing Executive	Wimpy International Ltd
Veronica (Wainstein) Moleele	CEO	Penquin
Kathryn McKay	Executive Creative Partner	M&C Saatchi Group SA: Black&White
Merissa Himraj	Chief Growth Officer (CGO)	WPP Media South Africa
Firdous Osman	Group Managing Director	Boom Group SA
Astrid Ascar	Chief Growth Officer	VML South Africa
Ray Langa	Group CEO	Leagas Delaney South Africa
Darren Leishman	Managing Director	Spitfire Inbound
Dani Morley	Executive Head, Growth	Shyft at Standard Bank Group
Tara Turkington	CEO	Flow Communications
Thato Soato	Senior Specialist: Digital Marketing	Vodacom
Mondrē Bremner	Senior Manager: Digital & Social Channels Marketing	NedBank
Dashni Vilakazi	Managing Director	The MediaShop
Courtney Chapple	Director of AI	Brave Group
Craig Naicker	Co-CEO	Happy Friday Creative
Yvette Gengan	Managing Director	Lucid Performance
Jamie-Leigh Barnett	Director: Growth & Development	Algorithm Agency
Zanele Zwane	Managing Director	HaveYouHeard Marketing Agency
Charis Apelgren-Coleman	CEO	BlueByrd Collective
Bianca de Beer	Senior Marketing Manager	1st For Women
Verene Petersen	Head of Marketing	Chery South Africa
Ciaran Mckivergan	Managing Director	8909 Digital
Muzi Mthombeni	Chief Strategy Officer	WONDER
Lebogang Gaoaketse	Head of Marketing and Communication	WesBank
Kenosi Matsebatlela	Demand Creation: Marketing & Growth Lead, Vaseline	Unilever South Africa

Judging will begin on August 4th, and the finalists will be announced at the end of August.

If you haven’t entered this year’s awards, there is still time! The entry submission deadline on Friday, 25th July, at midnight. Enter here.

Get ready for an unforgettable night! This year’s awards gala ceremony will dazzle on Tuesday, September 23rd, at the luxurious NH Sandton. Hosted by the brilliant Lebo Mokoena (The Mood Engineer), and powered by Monster Productions. Mark your calendars, because this is set to be the highlight of the SA awards calendar!

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