Although the incident that put the Black Lives Matter movement back in the headlines is one based in the U.S., the concept of racial inequality is something that is widely understood across the world, and especially in Africa. The colonial history of our nations can unfortunately still be felt and seen in everyday life, and even in some advertising. What movements like these remind all of us to do is to commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as part of the fabric of how our businesses and teams operate. We know that marketing has the power to both break or...

The IAB South Africa is thrilled to announce the names of the newly-elected members of the Transformation Council. Under the leadership of the inimitable Veli Ngubane, founding partner and chief creative officer of the Avatar Agency Group, the IAB SA Transformation Council consists of 14 dynamic individuals who will work together with fellow industry bodies and partners to champion diversity and inclusivity in the industry with the aim of facilitating lasting change that empowers Black digital media and marketing professionals. Leading by example, this iteration of the council comprises over 50% female and almost 100% diversified members. Members will serve for two...

  It's season 2 of IG Talk with Veli Ngubane. This week, join Veli as he chats to Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank. Watch it here: https://bit.ly/32j64tI #UnitedInCreativity  ...

Even just thinking about this, it is tiring. I'm sure what you are about to read is just the tip of the iceberg, but here's a few list of things that explain why it is exhausting to be black in advertising: as a black creative, you essentially have two jobs. The first is doing the day-to-day job that you get paid for (as little and discouraging as it is), and the second job is managing your blackness. If you've ever worked two jobs at the same time, you know how taxing this is. Managing your blackness can mean that you...

By simply acquiring 51% of Durban's leading independent agency, Espresso DBN, The Avatar Agency Group will paint the city of Durban yellow. The agency will now be know as Avatar DBN. Read more: https://bit.ly/2XVVEyy...

Bra Willy Seyama, a GIBS MBA graduate, an avid Digital Strategist, Infopreneur and eternal student. Watch as he chats to City of Johannesburg's Tumelo Komape about City of Joburg's road to 1Million Twitter followers. [vc_video link="https://youtu.be/PWv-5lMguD4"]...

The journey of diversity and inclusion in SA Adland has been mixed, with great gains in some pockets and huge frustration in others. As much as ownership is a key component for a transformed industry, there is need to look beyond. Transformation at the entry import in also key, are youth of colour being equipped to attain success and how are women being prioritised at all levels. How do we move forward together and create an industry that generations to come will feel proud of? Join Bongani Chinkanda, Founder of Diaries of a Salesman in conversation with Pepe Marais (Group Chief Creative Officer, Joe Public...

Earlier this week on IG Sessions, Veli Ngubane hosted Kutlwano Ditsele of SERITI Films. Watch as they chat about the new normal, and how Covid-19 has had an impact on the South African film industry. [vc_video link="https://youtu.be/FPQZqRGKdZk"]...

The tourism sector is a large contributor to the growth of the economy. Despite the headwinds currently impacting the South African tourism industry and the greater economy, the sector continues to be resilient and will gradually recover. Just in case you missed it, watch Veli Ngubane, Chief Creative Officer of Avatar as he chats to Chief Executive Officer of SA Tourism, Sisa Ntshona unpacking the effects of COVID-19 and how it has impacted the tourism sector. [vc_video link="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CC6XI18HqTN/"]...

Join us tonight at 6pm for our #UnitedInCreativity sessions where Veli Ngubane, CCO of  Avatar Agency Group will be hosting Sisa Ntshona, CEO of SA Tourism. Watch it here: https://bit.ly/3fNG13s...