The 2024 awards were held alongside the inaugural PRISMS Summit and celebrated not only the best work in the industry but also the dawn of a new chapter for PRISA, as the institute proudly unveiled its refreshed brand and renewed vision for the future.

According to the event, the theme for the 2024 PRISMS Summit and awards, 'Ink', served as a powerful metaphor for the storytelling craft that lies at the heart of public relations. Just as ink transforms a blank page into a story, PR professionals turn ideas into impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences. 

"This year's submissions reflected the profound influence of storytelling in shaping brand narratives and public perception. Through the 'Ink' theme, campaigns showcased how strategic communications can turn moments into movements, connecting communities and driving meaningful action," says Bradly Howland, CEO of Alkemi, President-Elect of PRISA and member of the PRISMS Organising Committee.

According to Paul Reynell, Chief Judge of the PRISMS Awards, the theme truly captured the essence of our profession.

"The campaigns we saw were not just communications efforts but works of art, using the power of storytelling to drive change, engagement and connection in the market. These award-winning campaigns blend creativity with strategic intent, reflecting how our industry continues to evolve and influence the world," adds Reynell.

The judging process, involving a panel of esteemed experts from across the industry, identified standout performances across multiple categories, according to the event. A total of 148 awards were given out. The ultimate Campaign of the Year was the GoSolr The Light Paper, which was awarded to The Friday Street Club.

Paddington Station Inc. walked away with Grand Prix Agency of the Year and Best Small Agency. Tribeca PR was also recognised as the Best Medium-Sized Agency and Flow Communications as the Best Large Agency of the Year.

Alongside the excitement of the PRISMS Awards, PRISA says it hosted its first annual PRISMS Summit, which brought together professionals from across the industry for two days of insightful sessions, workshops and networking. The summit focussed on addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the communications sector today, including:

  • value-based leadership
  • driving financial sustainability
  • the integration of AI
  • responsible communication, and
  • solutions to tackling ethical dilemmas like greenwashing and creating a stance on the role the industry plays in fighting climate change. 

PRISA's Rebrand 

According to PRISA, 2024 also marked a significant milestone as the institute launched its rebrand at the awards.

The new brand reflects PRISA's commitment to adapting to the changing landscape of public relations and strengthening its role as a leader in the industry. The rebrand, unveiled by the PRISA team, includes a new logo, updated messaging and a refreshed digital presence — all designed to capture the renewed energy and forward-looking vision of the organisation.

"The rebrand signals a bold new chapter for PRISA, one that embodies our unwavering commitment to innovation, leadership and growth. As the public relations landscape transforms, we are evolving alongside it, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of shaping the future of communications," says Oscar Tshifure, President of PRISA.

"Our new identity is not just a reflection of who we are today but a declaration of our vision for tomorrow — to elevate, empower and advocate for the public relations profession across Southern Africa and beyond," adds Tshifure.

The 2024 PRISM Awards and PRISMS Summit have reinforced PRISA's position as a key player in the world of communications, and the future looks bright as the institute embarks on its next chapter, PRISA concludes.

The award winners can be viewed here. 

For more information, visit www.prisa.co.za. You can also follow PRISA on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on X. 

*Image courtesy of Facebook