Johannesburg — South Africa’s digital and creative industry celebrated its brightest talents as the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) South Africa announced the winners of the 2025 Bookmark Awards, crowning agencies, brands, and individuals who set the standard for digital innovation.
The ceremony, hosted by media personality Sne Dladla, brought together leaders from advertising, publishing, technology, and marketing. This year’s competition was hailed as one of the most competitive to date, with winners recognised across categories including platforms, publishing, campaigns, emerging technologies, and craft.
Ogilvy dominated the evening, taking home multiple gold awards for campaigns such as KFC Sauce Code, KFC Block Booked, Your Ma Se KFC, and Cadbury Presents Real Mzansi Names. Other gold winners included:
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TBWA\ Hunt Lascaris for Sloom NapBot and City Lodge Hotels Save Our Stay (SOS)
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Juno Media for Chicken Licken – It’s the little things that satisfy us most
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Rogerwilco for Stellenbosch University – The S.E.O in G.E.O
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Joe Public for Nedbank – Bank Your Time
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Media24 for Daily Sun – A Re Buwe, 2024 May Elections Coverage and Video News Reporting
“The awards showcase the incredible talent and impact driving South Africa’s digital landscape,” said Chris Borain, executive director at IAB South Africa. “Our winners are setting universal benchmarks, proving that digital marketing is creating work that competes on a global stage.”
In a historic first, the Bookmark Awards introduced the Outstanding Individual Impact in Digital Award, honouring individuals who have advanced the sector. Jarred Cinman, a pioneer since the 1990s and co-founder of one of the country’s earliest digital agencies, was named the inaugural recipient. Recognised for his leadership, mentorship, and influence on industry standards, Cinman was celebrated for shaping both the IAB and the Bookmarks over three decades.
The evening also spotlighted future leaders through the IAB Front Row Initiative, which welcomed 15 young delegates for a year-long mentorship and access programme. Participants will gain exposure at major industry events, including the Nedbank IMC Conference, SMARTIES Awards, New Gen Awards, and Loeries workshops, helping to accelerate their careers.
Looking ahead, the IAB will announce the Bookmarks Digital Rankings later this year, highlighting agencies and brands that consistently produce award-winning work. Winners were urged to update their credits to ensure every contributor is recognised.
The Bookmarks remain a cornerstone of South Africa’s digital industry, celebrating creativity, innovation, and impact while inspiring the next generation of digital talent.
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