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Absa Unveils Groundbreaking Brand TVC Exploring AI, Identity, and the Story Behind the Numbers

In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, data, and automation, Absa has launched a bold new brand television commercial that redefines the intersection of technology and humanity. Titled “The Story Behind the Numbers”, the campaign marks the latest expression of Absa’s #WeSeeYourStory – a powerful new brand campaign that builds on the 2024-launched brand repositioning #YourStoryMatters. This next evolution reflects a shift in Absa’s brand promise, from acknowledging customer stories to actively responding to them. Whether through product innovation, inclusive financial tools, or community engagement, #WeSeeYourStory is about real connection. And this latest campaign demonstrates exactly that. At the heart of the TVC is an extraordinary, unscripted conversation between award-winning financial journalist Fifi Peters and her AI-generated clone, a lifelike digital twin trained to reflect her tone, thinking, and emotional intelligence. What unfolds is a surprisingly introspective dialogue that blurs the boundaries between machine and memory, code and consciousness. “Fifi didn’t just give us facts. She gave us feelings. That’s what made the clone human enough to challenge her,” said the AI development team behind the experience. The campaign was brought to life through a bold collaboration between Avatar Agency, 99C and innovation studio MonkeyDonkey, who partnered with Absa to conceptualise and create this never-before-seen brand experience. Sue and Stu Stobbs, Owners of MonkeyDonkey Creative AiGency, commented, “Building Fifi Clone felt like mixing code with jazz: part precision, part improvisation, and a whole lot of heart. Our aim was to engineer something that could reflect Fifi’s humanity rather than just ‘a bot’. This meant we weren’t simply feeding data into an algorithm but handcrafting a thinking brain and sculpting a believable look. It was exhilarating, mind-bending, and occasionally existential (‘Can a clone get goosebumps?’). Mostly, we felt like mad scientists in a creative lab, seeing how far we could push AI to tell a very human story.” The creative leads at Avatar added, “This wasn’t just about building a campaign, it was about breaking convention. We wanted to make people stop and think about what it means to be seen in the age of AI. Fifi’s Clone became a mirror, not just of a person, but of a powerful idea: that stories, not data, are what define us.” The development of the AI clone spanned over two and a half months and involved: Verified biographical and career data In-depth in-person interviews to capture tone, rhythm, and emotional nuance Advanced AI tools to generate visual and vocal fidelity A custom-built orchestration engine to ensure narrative flow, self-reflection, and tone control Fifi’s digital twin was officially “born” on 14 May 2025 at 13:09, and just one week later, conducted what would become one of the most introspective interviews of Fifi’s career. The 95-second hero film opens with a powerful provocation: “Can data really see the human behind the numbers?” From there, the story unfolds into a deeply human exploration of identity, legacy, and the future of Africa, brought to life through a conversation only AI could enable, but only a human could make meaningful. Sydney Mbhele, Absa’s Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer, says this is more than a campaign. “It is a bold and exciting step forward for the Absa brand. We’ve always believed that technology should serve human purpose, and this work proves exactly that. It’s emotionally resonant, deeply relevant, and unforgettably human. Our customers are more than data points—they’re people with dreams, challenges, and stories that deserve to be heard.” Now rolling out across multiple digital and broadcast platforms, “The Story Behind the Numbers” is a living, breathing statement about Absa’s future-facing approach to human-centred banking, and the belief that even in the age of AI, it’s the stories behind the numbers that truly matter. #YourStoryMatters #WeSeeYourStory

A Decade of Growth, Style, and Community: Freckle Eyewear Celebrates 10 Years of Black Woman Excellence, Resilience, and Community of Luxury Connoisseurs

Community has become an enduring buzzword for brands seeking to foster customer loyalty and grow through word-of-mouth endorsements. Freckle Eyewear is no different, proudly marking 10 years of trading, surviving, and thriving as a Black woman-owned business in South Africa. Rooted in the spirit of African excellence and luxury experiences, Freckle Eyewear has not only offered the finest designer sunglasses styles but has also actively opened doors for young people, creating employment opportunities and pathways for growth. Founded by Lihle Lamola, Freckle Eyewear was born from a vision that economic participation is vital to Africa’s story — and from a passion for unique designer sunglasses straight off the international runway. Today, Freckle Eyewear continues to blend global designer brands like TOM FORD, LOEWE, CARTIER with local opportunity, demonstrating that luxury can stand tall anywhere in the world. Over the past decade, the business has steadily expanded, with growth supported partly by strategic partnerships with other local high-end boutiques and the utilisation of content creators and influencers. By building a trusted name while mentoring and employing young people meaningfully, from staff members to agency partners who are youth-owned businesses.   Weathering storms with resilience When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted industries across the continent, Freckle Eyewear leaned into innovation and community support by ensuring their clients still received service through sourcing unique, exclusive pieces, prioritising staff well-being, and continuing to serve customers amid uncertainty — reflecting the resilience typical of Africa’s entrepreneurs. “As a Black woman in business, I carry the hopes of generations who have fought for access and dignity,” shares Lihle Lamola. “Reaching this 10-year milestone is not just a personal celebration but a collective victory that demonstrates what is possible when we build, together.” Creating opportunities for the next generation Over the past decade, Freckle Eyewear has created employment for over 50 young people, equipping them with skills, mentorship, and professional exposure within the high-end retail sector.   Lihle Lamola is a visionary and strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in business development and more than a decade in executive leadership roles, mainly within the retail sector. A talented entrepreneur and accomplished businesswoman, she is the founding managing director of Freckle Eyewear and has business interest in logistics and manufacturing industries. “For us, it was never just about selling sunglasses, we are in the business of selling luxury experiences,” says Ms Lamola. Stepping into the next chapter • As we enter our next decade, Freckle Eyewear remains committed to expanding its impact across the continent. Plans are in motion for domestic store expansion and new brand collaborations introducing dedicated Freckle Eyewear homes to showcase our latest collections while deepening partnerships that support sustainable growth and shared prosperity in Africa’s luxury retail space. The 10-year milestone was celebrated on 28th June 2025, gathering partners, customers, staff, media and influencers who have been part of the journey. The enchanting evening commenced with a sundowner reception, where we savoured a selection of handcrafted cocktails by Don Julio as the sun sets in a breath-taking display of colours. Following this, we went to indulge in a sumptuous sit-down dinner featuring a gourmet menu meticulously crafted by a local culinary chef, trained by a Michelin-awarded chef.

South African clinic breaks barriers in hair transplants for Afro-textured hair

While Beverly Hills is often hailed as the epicentre of cosmetic innovation, a South African clinic is making global waves with pioneering advancements in Afro-textured hair transplants, ushering in a new era of inclusive and culturally attuned hair restoration. Alvi Armani South Africa, mandated by its Beverly Hills-based global headquarters to spearhead research in this specialised field, has developed cutting-edge techniques uniquely designed for the intricate structure of tightly coiled hair – a texture predominantly found across Southern Africa and beyond. “For decades, hair restoration techniques focused primarily on straight hair, which tends to be simpler or more straightforward to treat, but left patients with Afro-textured hair underserved,” explains Dr Kashmal Kalan, Medical Director at Alvi Armani South Africa. “But over the past five years, there’s been a greater push toward understanding and treating Afro-textured hair, which has seen the emergence of a number of new tools, technologies, and research. “Leading this trend, Southern Africa presents some of the world’s most complex and challenging follicle patterns, with curl structures that are significantly tighter than those typically seen in Central Africa, North Africa, or among African-Americans. This has driven us to innovate – and it’s given us the opportunity to develop more highly specialised techniques specifically for Afro-textured hair types.” Innovative techniques for Afro-textured hair   In response to these challenges, Alvi Armani South Africa has developed its own system for safely extracting and transplanting tightly coiled follicles. “Understanding how the curl sits in the scalp, or how the follicle lies on its belly is crucial. We’ve pioneered our own system for extracting these types of follicles, and our surgical techniques can achieve very healthy survival rates for even the most tightly coiled follicles,” says Dr Kalan. The clinic also uses specially designed surgical tools, including advanced punch instruments that allow for more accurate incisions and better alignment with the natural curve of the follicle root. This precision significantly reduces trauma and improves graft survival. Recognising the delicate nature of Afro-textured follicles and the increased risk of keloid scarring on the scalp, the clinic takes a conservative approach when determining graft numbers to avoid compromising results. “With very tightly curved hair, we might limit the procedure to 1,500 grafts compared to 3,500 in straight hair cases. While this may mean multiple sessions for some patients, this careful approach ensures the best possible outcomes.” Its team further utilises the latest technologies, including an AI-driven tool that allows surgeons to assess curl patterns and follicle characteristics with unprecedented precision before surgery, producing remarkable successes for patients. Global impact and leadership Through its innovations, Alvi Armani South Africa has established itself as a global leader in Afro-textured hair restoration. Additionally, its collaboration with international partners within Alvi Armani’s network, as well as its access to cutting-edge technologies, has enabled the clinic to bring the latest advancements in the industry directly to Johannesburg. “Being part of an international brand has given us access to tools and technologies that are years ahead of the local market. What’s happening in research centres such as Beverly Hills today, we can implement almost immediately here in South Africa, rather than waiting the years it may otherwise take for these techniques to reach or filter down to the local market,” he notes. Beyond patient care, its experts are actively involved in training other surgeons, contributing to research, and leading conversations in international forums about Afro-textured hair restoration. This educational component is critical, as many practitioners around the world still lack experience in treating diverse hair types. “We’re proud to help set new standards for inclusive hair restoration. We’re part of many global societies where doctors share information, and the techniques we’ve helped to develop here in South Africa are currently being adopted by clinics worldwide.”

JOIN BLUEY IN HELPING FURRY FRIENDS WEATHER THE COLD IN JOHANNESBURG!

The hit theatre show Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show, fresh from making its African debut at Artscape in Cape Town, now arrives in Johannesburg, where the show runs from Wednesday, 9 July until Sunday, 20 July 2025 at the Teatre at Montecasino in Fourways. Tickets are on sale at showtime.co.za and ticketmaster.co.za.   Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad, everyone’s favourite Blue Heeler dog family are, during the chilliest part of the year, supporting an initiative, along with Woodrock Animal Rescue (woodrockanimalrescue.co.za), to make sure that their South African furry friends will make it through winter with their tails wagging, their fur thick and warm and their noses wet and shiny. Audiences coming to watch the show are encouraged to bring along donations of pet food, blankets and pet toys for the dogs and other pets being cared for by Woodrock, as well as any second-hand books they’d like to clear out of their collections, which will be sold to help raise money to cover the organisation’s expenses. Special collection bins will be available in the Teatro’s foyer during the show’s run, and all donations will help to make the animals under Woodrock’s care more comfortable during the cold Johannesburg winter.   Woodrock Animal Rescue, led by visionary founders Nicholas and Stella Meldau, is a beacon of hope since 1992. Their forward-thinking approach empowers communities through education, wellness, and outreach. Beyond rescuing animals, they inspire change—uniting hearts, healing minds, and building a compassionate future for both people and animals.   Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show is based on an original story written by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and contains music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush. The characters are represented by larger-than-life puppets operated by talented puppeteers who bring Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad to life on stage. This show is a theatrical adaptation of the BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning animated television series produced by Ludo Studio and is packed with music, laughter and fun for the whole family.   Bluey’s Big Play follows Bluey and her family through a full day from sunrise through to bedtime. When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo come up with their own plans and take fans with them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag! The critically acclaimed stage show has captivated audiences across the globe. Since premiering in Australia, Bluey’s Big Play has toured globally across the UK, Ireland, Canada, the US, Europe, Singapore and the UAE and has been seen by millions of fans worldwide.   Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show is presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co and local live entertainment and show promoter, Showtime Management. Tickets for the run at the Teatro at Montecasino, Johannesburg from Wednesday, 09 July to Sunday, 20 July 2025 are on sale at showtime.co.za and ticketmaster.co.za.    Hurry, book now – and don’t forget the special ticket options that offer fans the opportunity to meet Bluey in real life! Each attendee irrespective of age must hold a valid ticket in any price category for Bluey’s Big Play. Only valid Ticketmaster tickets purchased via showtime.co.za or directly from ticketmaster.co.za, the exclusive ticketing agent, may be presented.   VIP access passes will be available for collection from the VIP Concierge Desk, located in the venue foyer, from one hour prior to showtime. Please note children are not allowed Meet & Greet access without a VIP paid adult.

Carol Ofori Turns Heads in Three Powerful Looks at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July

Award-winning broadcaster and media personality Carol Ofori brought glamour, storytelling, and South African pride to the fore at this year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July – stunning in three custom-designed looks that paid tribute to the 2025 theme, ‘Marvels of Mzansi’. Held at the iconic Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, 5 July, the event celebrated South Africa’s heritage, resilience, and extraordinary achievements – and Carol delivered all of that and more through bold fashion and even bolder presence. Carol was styled by The Fifth, a collective of four trailblazing Black female designers from KwaZulu-Natal, known for their contemporary Afro-chic designs. Each of Carol’s three looks honoured a unique facet of South African culture, strength and excellence. Kicking off the day in a show-stopping white gown designed by Sibu Msimang, Carol paid homage to South Africa’s national flower, the Protea, and the recently crowned national cricket champions, who share the same name. The design blended symbolic grace with modern flair, representing victory, beauty, and unity. She later turned up the glamour in a gold gown by Zama Gumede of Zaviar Fashion House, exuding opulence and honouring South African excellence in the arts and entertainment. For the third look, Carol channelled dramatic elegance in a black couture piece designed by Kwenzi Nkomo of Indoni Fashion House and is a tribute to resilience, power, and bold feminine energy. Beyond her fashion moments, Carol also brought her signature sparkle as MC at both the Sinayo Hospitality Marquee and the East Coast Radio Grand Suite, where she entertained VIP guests and added warmth and wit to the festivities. “The Durban July is always a celebration of fashion, flair, and South African excellence and I was so proud to wear pieces created by powerful women from the province I call home,” Carol Ofori says. “The theme ‘Marvels of Mzansi’ really spoke to my heart, and each look told a story about who we are as a people — bold, brilliant, and full of joy. I was honoured to be part of such a spectacular day!” With dazzling fashion, unforgettable energy, and vibrant South African pride on full display, the day was nothing short of magical – and Carol Ofori was at the heart of it all. From captivating fashion moments to her lively hosting duties, she helped make the day one to remember. Find Carol Ofori on Twitter and Instagram @CarolOfori and on Facebook @RealCarolOfori.

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