The IAB SA Education Council's Front Row initiative aims to identify and provide a platform for 15 young, ambitious, and talented members of the digital media and marketing industry, offering a springboard to launch their careers.

Through the programme, participants will receive sponsored access to award ceremonies, digital media and marketing educational programmes, workshops and courses and industry-leading events. These activities and platforms also aim to provide knowledge sharing, networking and mentorship from members in the South African digital media and marketing landscape. The experience aims to inspire the participants and is a springboard for their future careers, says IAB SA.

Addressing the 2026 cohort of 15 Front Row delegates is Su Little, Lead Chair of the IAB SA Education Council and Founder of Little Digital.

"The future is in your hands, and we're excited to walk this path with you. This is your moment to grow and make an impact. Hats off to the peers and leaders who've nominated the talent. We need more of you," says Little.

Nominated by industry peers and leaders, the following delegates were selected for their potential to lead and innovate:

  • Amile Buthelezi, Intern at Levergy
  • Buhle Motshwene, Junior Strategist at Publicis Groupe Africa
  • Emihle Belewa, Marketing Intern at The Up&Up Group
  • Kezia Gamedze, Junior Copywriter at Penquin Advertising
  • Lutho Bawuti, Strategy Intern at Dentsu — Carat
  • Mahlogonolo Ramoloto, Intern at Dentsu — iProspect
  • Ndivhu Ralushai, Copywriter at M+C Saatchi Abel
  • Nix Winterburn, Intern Copywriter at Machine_
  • Nombulelo Ngwendu, Intern at DentsuX
  • Nompilo Hlabangani, Junior Digital Media Planner at WPP Media
  • Qhawekazi Ngada Dentsu Social Media Intern
  • Shay Chetty, Junior Strategist at Zenith
  • Thembelihle Phetla, Junior Strategist at Ogilvy SA
  • Tinyiko Nkuna, Junior Conversation Architect at JNPR
  • Yingcwaliso Mabandla, CPT Art Director at Ogilvy

Acknowledging the selection process, Project Lead of the Front Row initiative and member of the IAB SA Education Council, Deborah Whitlock, extends her admiration for the delegates.

"This programme grows from strength to strength, and once again, we had more nominations than the previous year. It truly was an extremely tough decision to select our final 15," says Whitlock.

"To the industry, we thank you for your continued sponsorship and support. The difference made in the lives of these young people is enormous. To our 2026 delegates, we encourage you to embrace these opportunities with open arms as you commence the programme," Whitlock adds.

"I'm beyond excited to watch the growth of these 15 individuals over the next 12 months. Chosen from more than 120 candidates across South Africa, they've already distinguished themselves by taking the first step toward accelerating their careers. This programme offers them a rare opportunity to expand their networks, deepen their industry knowledge, and lay the foundation for the success we know they'll achieve," says Kyle Oosthuizen, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Robot.

"I'm truly grateful for the Front Row Program. It's been a life-changing experience that has exposed me to opportunities and spaces I never imagined I'd be part of so early in my career. Front Row has been one of the most valuable experiences of my creative journey," says Amy Gajjar, Outgoing 2026 Delegate.

"It gave me access to incredible industry events, inspiring leaders, and a network of talented peers who continue to motivate me. I left the programme with new knowledge, meaningful connections, and a renewed excitement for my future in advertising," concludes Gajjar. "I would encourage every young creative to apply. It's truly an opportunity of a lifetime."

For more information, visit www.iabsa.net. You can also follow IAB SA on Facebook, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor