As AI and performance marketing reshape digital advertising, are brands becoming less memorable? Nicole Glover, Executive Creative Director – Digital at Penquin, argues that the industry’s obsession with optimisation and short-term metrics—not artificial intelligence—is driving creative sameness. Discover why balancing data with emotional storytelling is essential for long-term brand growth and marketing effectiveness.
Category: Business
Business
Bridging South Africa’s Media Skills Gap with Industry‑Backed Learning
The Advertising Media Association of South Africa (AMASA), in partnership with the AAA School of Advertising, has launched an updated Media Management Competence Certificate to address South Africa’s growing media skills gap. Combining industry-led training, practical learning, and a newly developed media planning textbook, the four-month hybrid programme equips professionals with the strategic, digital, and analytical skills needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape. The initiative supports the development of future-ready media talent as brands, agencies, and media owners adapt to increasingly complex consumer and technology trends.
The imposter syndrome of a strategist: Paid to sound certain in an uncertain world
In this thought-provoking article, Inamangwe Mtumtum explores the growing imposter syndrome faced by strategists working in an increasingly uncertain world. Against the backdrop of South Africa’s economic challenges, unemployment, rising living costs, and shifting consumer behaviour, the article argues that brands must move beyond superficial empathy and embrace authenticity, accountability, and a deeper understanding of consumers navigating complex realities.
TheBoardroom Africa’s 2026 Industry Trends Report Identifies Structural Shifts Redefining How African Markets Operate
The Boardroom Africa’s 2026 Industry Trends Report highlights major structural shifts reshaping how African markets operate. It examines the rise of digital infrastructure, regulatory tightening, cross-border payments modernization, and data-driven financial ecosystems across the continent. The report underscores how these forces are redefining competitiveness and market efficiency in Africa.
Five Outdoor Team Building Activities That Strengthen Team Cohesion and Workplace Performance
Discover five effective Outdoor Team Building Activities that help businesses strengthen team cohesion, improve communication, boost employee engagement, and enhance workplace productivity. From scavenger hunts and hiking challenges to community impact projects, outdoor experiences can foster stronger workplace relationships and support long-term organizational success.
The leadership gap behind Africa’s implementation challenge
Africa’s new Transformative African Leadership (TAL) programme argues that the continent’s biggest development challenge is not policy creation, but implementation. Backed by leading African universities and governance institutions, TAL focuses on building leadership models rooted in Ubuntu, Agenda 2063 and African institutional realities. The programme aims to equip leaders across government, business and civil society to improve policy execution, regional integration and cross-border collaboration under frameworks such as AfCFTA.
Perion, Mediamark and McSorely Media Launch Exclusive AI Advertising Partnership Across Africa
Perion Network, McSorely Media, and Mediamark have launched an exclusive AI advertising partnership across Africa, bringing Perion’s Outmax AI-native execution platform to agencies and brands throughout the continent. The collaboration aims to improve programmatic advertising performance, transparency, and measurable outcomes as Africa’s digital advertising market continues rapid growth.
Why Brands Must Humanise the AI Narrative to Preserve Consumer Trust
As artificial intelligence transforms industries, brands face growing pressure to manage not only AI adoption but also public perception. Mandy Davis, Managing Director at Penquin, explains why transparency, ethical AI practices, and human-centred storytelling are essential for maintaining consumer trust. The article explores how brands can address concerns around privacy, misinformation, and job displacement while using AI responsibly to strengthen credibility and customer relationships.
How CIPS Level 4–6 Can Boost Your Career and Salary in Nigeria’s Growing Supply Chain Sector
Discover how CIPS Levels 4, 5, and 6 can accelerate procurement and supply chain careers in Nigeria. Learn how CIPS qualifications improve professional credibility, unlock senior roles, and increase salaries across industries including oil and gas, banking, telecoms, manufacturing, and logistics.
Walmart and Google Partner with Fluence Africa for Landmark “YouTube-First” Creator Training in South Africa
Global retail giant Walmart and tech leader Google have partnered with Fluence Africa to launch a groundbreaking “YouTube-first” creator training program in South Africa. Hosted in a live retail environment, the initiative equips content creators with practical skills in video production, storytelling, and digital monetisation. By blending content creation with real-world commerce, the program highlights the growing importance of the creator economy and signals a shift toward authentic, video-driven marketing strategies across Africa.