The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, taking place from 16 to 20 June in France, is the world’s most prestigious event recognising excellence in creative marketing and communications. RAPT Group Divisional Head: PR and Influencer Partnerships, Khangi Dziba, is a respected brand communications strategist and trailblazer in integrated marketing, and has been appointed to the 2025 Cannes Lions Shortlisting Jury in the PR category, making them the only South African in this discipline.
Dziba, who holds a Master’s in Brand Leadership and over 12 years’ experience in brand storytelling and strategic communications, has led award-winning work for global powerhouses including L’Oréal, Diageo, Heineken and Pernod Ricard. Their approach fuses cultural relevance with measurable brand impact across public relations, influencer marketing, partnerships and trade activations.
‘In a world that is still unlearning exclusion, representation at a global level is a responsibility,’ said Dziba. ‘Being invited to judge the PR category at Cannes is a call to bring a culturally nuanced and African lens to what global creative excellence looks like.’
Dziba added: ‘True creativity should resonate beyond borders. I’m excited to recognise work that is brave, deeply insightful and that elevates narratives from all corners of the world.’
Simon Cook, CEO of LIONS, described the 2025 jury as ‘a record-breaking cohort of talent that sets the tone for creative standards worldwide.’ Marian Brannelly, Global Director of Awards, noted the increased diversity as ‘a testament to the evolving and inclusive nature of the creative economy’.
This year’s jury brings together experts from 79 countries, with four new regions – Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland and Mongolia – joining for the first time, reflecting a broader, more inclusive creative landscape.
Dziba’s appointment signals a bold step forward in ensuring Africa’s creative voices are not only heard but celebrated on the world stage.
