Times are tough. Budgets are at an all-time low, so the pickings are slim. But that said, I came across some gems. These are pieces that made me feel something. So here we go…

Kreepy Krauly - 'My Kreepy Teacher'

Agency: Retroviral

This is just so funny, that I had to share it. Probably the reason it went viral. South Africans love to make fun of things that take themselves seriously. My Kreepy Teacher epitomises South African humour. It is a hysterical parody of the smash-hit Netflix documentary 'My Octopus Teacher'. It’s an emotional and evocative branded content piece about the unconventional relationship between a man and his pool cleaner; a Kreepy Krauly. It was conceptualised on a Wednesday and went live on the Sunday. The new normal….? It was received so well that over-night, it went viral. In times when social media is so negative, it’s rather refreshing to see an iconic household brand, Kreepy Krauly helping us to laugh out loud.

Carling Black Label - 'The Carling Cup of Ages'

Agency: Draftline

The Carling Cup is an annual soccer tournament sponsored by Carling Black Label, a very popular beer in South Africa. The cup has been going for eight consecutive years and the local soccer teams attract crowds of fans to the stadiums. But with strict Covid-19 restrictions in place, the tournament could not go on. So, Carling Black Label had to think beyond the arena. They took the greatest TOURNAMENT moments of the last eight years and created a 90 minute match, where anything can happen. A relevant, exciting and great example of an amazing pivot idea from the Carling Black Label team.

Stella Artois - 'Wet Paint'

Agency: King James Group Johannesburg

A social distancing idea at its best. Simple and uber creative. I love this idea, so hats off to the creators. It also incorporates the brand, Stella Artois, in an authentic way – as we come together, let’s remember to stay apart. A be responsible message that puts a smile under your mask.

The Storyteller Foundation - 'The Letter'

Production company: 7Films

This piece choked me up in a few seconds. An emotive and sensitively handled piece that celebrates and honours the life of the young and talented storyteller and director, SJ Myeza. It incorporates some of SJ’s work, projects and special moments in his life overlaid with a beautiful and meaningful narrative that resonates deeply with everyone. This film serves as an inspiration for the next generation of storytellers.

Sanlam - 'Caitlin'

Agency: King James Group Cape Town

Inspiration is never hard to find, even during a pandemic and this piece is proof of that. 18 year old gymnast, Caitlin Rooskrantz, has been working her whole life waiting to qualify for the Olympics. She finally did it and then Covid-19 hit and the Olympics was cancelled. She was not going to let a change of plans get the better of her. So, with the help of Sanlam, she turned a pause into a new plan. She performed her Olympic routine on the exact date and time it was scheduled to happen in Japan on Facebook live. "If you believe in yourself, nothing can stop you.” - Caitlin Rooskrantz