From Events To Experiences: 6 Essential Lessons From Tudum 2025 For Brands
Netflix TUDUM 2025 was more than a celebration of storytelling, it was a masterclass on how brands can curate immersive experiences for their audiences. For brands planning pop-up activations, product launches, or exclusive showcases, TUDUM 2025 offered a compelling blueprint for transforming events into unforgettable experiences. Here are six key lessons brands can adapt from Netflix’s playbook.
When The Lights Go Out: Communication Lessons From Johannesburg’s Power Failure
In moments of crisis, the flow of accurate and clear communication is crucial. It is a powerful tool that assists organizations in maintaining order, reassuring the public, and leading them through tough times. The recent Johannesburg outage serves as an example of how communication can impact crisis resolution.
Virtual Events Are Here to Stay: How to Make Yours Feel Human in a Digital World
Despite their benefits, virtual events often feel flat. We’ve all experienced Zoom/Teams fatigue, where every webinar blends into the next. The lack of eye contact, spontaneous conversation, and real emotional energy makes it easy for participants to tune out. Here are some tips on how to make your event feel more human.
What the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer Means for Your Public Relations Strategy
Published annually, the Edelman Trust Barometer is one of the most anticipated reports in the communications industry. It surveys many people across different countries, capturing how trust is built, lost, and maintained across sectors. And in an age where misinformation, AI generated content, and institutional fatigue are at an all-time high; trust is not just a simple thing to have – it is the battleground for brand relevance and reputation. This blog breaks down the biggest takeaways from the 2025 Trust Barometer and explores what they mean for your PR strategy this year.
Coca-Cola X Tyla “Bliss”: Selling Lifestyle And Emotion, Not Just The Product
The days of simply showcasing a product’s features are over, especially when targeting the youth. Coca-Cola understands this. Instead of emphasizing the drink itself, the brand sells the values and emotions associated with the drink. These emotional cues resonate with youth, who are actively seeking connection and individuality in the fast-paced, digital world.
Maybelline X Nandos: Cross-Industry Branding Done Right
Unusual brand collaborations work because they spark curiosity and start conversations. They are unique, bold, unexpected and newsworthy. However, for these collaborations to work, they must be approached with thoughtfulness and be crafted in a way that complements the brands and allows each one to shine. Maybelline and Nando’s managed to strike the balance perfectly by addressing the real pain point: beauty lovers struggling with smudging lipstick when having to eat messy meals.
How Damson Idris’ Met Gala Look Promoted A Movie: 5 Tactics On Creating Buzz For Your Brand
If there is one thing Damson Idris’s MET Gala appearance taught us, it is how to turn a red carpet moment into a strategic marketing opportunity.
Africa Is Not A Country: Why Authentic Representation In Campaigns Matters
To the world, Africa Day marks the founding of the African Union. It is a time to celebrate by acknowledging our continent's progress while reflecting upon the ongoing challenges we face in the global landscape. For marketers, it is an opportunity to examine how our beautiful continent is portrayed in marketing and media. Are our campaigns leaning towards the outdated stereotypes of Africa being tribal, violent, or underdeveloped? Or are we actively progressing in reshaping the perceptions?
The Myth of “Going Viral”: Why Brands Should Build Credibility, Not Just Chasing Clicks
In every brainstorm session, on every content calendar, there’s that one hopeful suggestion: “Let’s make this go viral.” It’s the holy grail for marketers – a piece of content that explodes across the internet, racks up millions of views, and earns overnight fame. Brands obsess over shares, likes, and view counts, convinced that virality is the fastest route to relevance.
The Rise of Purpose-Driven Branding: How Companies Are Building Trust in a Sceptical World
In a world where information travels fast, people are now more aware and critical of brands than ever before. Consumers today look beyond just products or services; they seek out brands that align with their own values and stand for something greater. This shift has given rise to "purpose-driven branding," where brands establish a deeper connection by showcasing their commitment to a purpose, whether it's social impact, environmental responsibility, or supporting local communities. But what does purpose-driven branding actually mean, and why has it become so important in recent years?
SAFTAs 2024: Honouring South African Film and Television Excellence
This past weekend, the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) took centre stage, celebrating the achievements of our nation’s finest filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Established in 2005 with guidance from the National Film and Video Foundation of South Africa (NFVF), the SAFTAs have become a symbol of excellence, dedication, and innovation in South African film and television. The awards continue to recognize the best in local entertainment, celebrating those who capture South Africa's stories with heart and authenticity.
Supply Chain Challenges in the West Bank and the Crucial Role of Strategic PR in Crisis Management
The global supply chain has been a source of ongoing challenges in recent years, from the COVID-19 pandemic to geopolitical conflicts. The latest development involves two major beverage bottlers, Pepsi and Coca-Cola, facing shortages in the West Bank due to a blockade on the Allenby Bridge crossing. This situation is not only disrupting the production of soft drinks but is also providing important lessons for businesses worldwide about the importance of proactive communication and crisis management.
Exploring Growth Trends in the Beer Industry: A Strategic Opportunity for Innovation and Market Expansion
The beer industry in South Africa is undergoing significant changes, driven by shifting consumer preferences and an evolving global market. Recent trends indicate a rising demand for low- and no-alcohol beer options, as well as a growing interest in diverse grain varietals used for brewing. The Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) has strategically positioned itself to tap into these opportunities, with a focus on expanding research and development (R&D) into local barley and hops varietals. This move is designed not only to meet domestic demand but also to create export potential, putting South Africa on the global beer map.
How Tesla’s Robots Delivered Drinks and Smiles: Linking Innovation to PR and Marketing Strategies in the Digital Age
Last week, Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled the latest version of the humanoid robot, Optimus, during the "We, Robot" event in California. The event captivated audiences as these robots danced, served drinks, played games, and even sang birthday songs. On the surface, it appeared that the future had arrived with fully autonomous, AI-driven robots seamlessly interacting with humans. However, what many in attendance didn’t realize at first was that the robots were being operated remotely by humans. This gap between perception and reality reveals a crucial aspect of public relations (PR) and marketing—how public perception can sometimes overshadow the actual technology or service being delivered.
Client Spotlight: DALRO – Empowering Creators in Literary and Visual Arts
In the digital age, where access to creative works has become increasingly widespread, protecting the intellectual property of creators has never been more important. The Dramatic, Artistic, and Literary Rights Organisation (DALRO) stands at the forefront of this mission, ensuring that creators of literary and visual works are fairly compensated for the use of their creations. As a multi-purpose collective management organization, DALRO is dedicated to protecting the intellectual property rights of South Africa’s artists and authors, fostering a fairer and more sustainable creative industry.
Celebrating Creativity in the Digital Era: How the DStv Content Creator Awards Reflect the Future of PR and Marketing
The digital age has transformed how people consume content, communicate, and connect. As highlighted by recent events like the DStv Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards and the DStv Content Creator Awards, creativity in content is not only celebrated, but it has also become a driving force behind storytelling in South Africa. These awards have provided platforms for local creators, athletes, musicians, and performers to showcase their talent, acknowledging their significant role in shaping the future of media and entertainment.
Navigating the Shifting Trends: What We Can Learn from Adidas' Strategy
The world of fashion and consumer products is fast-paced and dynamic. What’s hot today might be cold tomorrow, and brands must constantly evolve to stay relevant. One current example of this in the retail sector is Adidas' iconic Samba and Gazelle sneakers. These terrace-style shoes have been central to Adidas' sales boost over the past year, particularly as rival Nike has faced challenges. However, as analysts predict, the trend surrounding these shoes won’t last forever, forcing Adidas to navigate the decline while maintaining its momentum.
The Intersection of PR, Marketing, and Ethical Event Management: Lessons from the Chris Brown Concert Controversy
The events industry is more than just organizing large gatherings and managing logistics. It is about creating experiences, managing public perceptions, and ensuring that the values represented align with the expectations of the audience. Recently, a controversy surrounding Chris Brown’s upcoming concert in Johannesburg has sparked significant conversation, especially in the context of gender-based violence (GBV) awareness. Women For Change, a South African advocacy group, has urged concert promoters to reconsider allowing Brown to perform due to his history of violence against women. This situation raises important questions about accountability, ethical event management, and the role of public relations (PR) and marketing in shaping events.
Evac+Chair - South Africa: A Client Spotlight on Amplifying Brand Awareness and Saving Lives
In a world where safety is paramount, especially during emergencies, being prepared can make the difference between life and death. One company leading the charge in emergency preparedness is Evac+Chair South Africa. With a commitment to providing innovative evacuation solutions, they’ve made significant strides in helping organizations across the country ensure that everyone—including individuals with mobility challenges—can safely evacuate during emergencies.
Leadership, Diversity, and Global Impact: Insights for PR from Mexico’s Historic Presidency
Claudia Sheinbaum’s inauguration as Mexico’s first female president marks a significant milestone not only for the country but also for the world. As both the first woman and the first Jewish individual to hold this position, Sheinbaum’s leadership reflects a broader global shift toward diversity and inclusion, offering important insights for industries like public relations (PR) and marketing.