Award winning advertising and media guru, Groovin Nchabeleng, has kept the awards stacking up in his cabinet when he received the AAA Luminary Award 2024, at their graduation ceremony on 28 November, in Johannesburg.
Nchabeleng, an alumni of AAA, having studied there more than 25 years ago, was recognised by the institution for showcasing positive change and influence and, over a career spanning over 20 years, shown excellence and leadership.
“I am extremely humbled by this recognition, moreover because it comes from a top institution and also because this is where I learnt the tools of the trade.”
“Yes, I have had the honour of receiving many awards, but this one feels extra special because it comes from my teachers,” says a beeming Nchabeleng.
Nchabeleng is a former Group CEO of multinational advertising agency, Leo Burnette, and current founder and chairperson of Blueprint South Africa, a 100% black-owned advertising agency in Johannesburg.
He has served on several boards, including the Marketing, Advertising and Communications (MAC) Sector Code, as a council member.
He also founded several other entities, including Koni multinational brands and, more recently, the Black Agencies Network Association (BANA), a collaborative business to business network and advocacy group whose sole purpose is to increase the slice of business for 100% Black-owned and majority Black-run agencies in the Advertising and Communications industry.
“I am still very passionate about this industry. I think that even though we have seen some amazing work from local agencies, we have really only scratched the surface.”
“The talent that is in this country makes a case for multinational brands to insist on meaningful transformation.”
Nchabeleng believes that the advertising industry in South Africa is very late in bringing about true transformation and opportunities for black owned advertising agencies.
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