There's no limit for Offlimit Communications in 2015

Apologies if my headline got the oldie but goodie from 2 Unlimited stuck in your head, but clicking through to the Offlimit Communications website, you quickly learn their mantra of what they do is intended to feel limitless. "It's simple, we move people to brands. This is done through sponsorship, experiential, retail activation and idea generation."

I spoke to creative director, Artwell Nwaila, for a short and sweet catch-up, to find out more...

Artwell Nwaila

When did the company start, and why?

Nwaila: The business started 10 years ago with more of a production tone. It eventually grew into activations and finally into a full on experiential business.

What exactly do you do there, as creative director?

Nwaila: I scare the hell out of the junior creatives! I joke, I joke. I'm actually tasked with translating clients marketing objectives and brand strategies into results-driven creative executions. So I'm responsible for all innovation output from the organisation's creative services team.

List any exciting new developments in the team that have enhanced Offlimit's overall skillset.

Nwaila: We've been on a strong mission of finding the perfect team, and I think we are 90% there. This has opened up doors for us to create the most amazing work, from both creative and production sides.

Talking about amazing work, we're on the brink of a number of local advertising awards and design expos - what are your thoughts on the state of South African advertising and design?

Nwaila: We're definitely on par with any other country. That said, 10 years ago we were one of the world's shining stars of advertising...

That's true. We're big on trends at Biz - tell us more about the videos in the 'trends' section of your website.

Nwaila: Our trends page on our website is a special project to our MD, Jerome Cohen. His goal is to make the site more than just a space to showcase our impressive portfolio, but also a tool shat showcases the latest trends, not only for our clients but for everyone. We are very much about having our finger on the pulse of things.

OK then, what trends do you see as the biggest to come from the next few months?

Nwaila: Brands want to make real connections with their consumers, so we'll see more investment in the experiential space. I also see brands experimenting more with digital and investing in interactive methods like native advertising.

Exciting times, and experiential is sure to play a big part in that. Tell us more about the experiential campaigns you've run at Offlimit.

Nwaila: Wow, I've run so many as the CD that it's hard to pin down just a few favourites... I've been fortunate to have worked on the trendiest brands like Coca-Cola, Sprite and DStv. What's really cool is the wide range of things I've worked on here - everything from a reality show through to hip-hop gigs. Each day is something new.

Some of Offlimit Communications' recent work...

That's just a light scratching on the surface of what's to come from Offlimit Communications. You can keep touch with Offlimit through their press office, on their Twitter and Facebook accounts, and be sure to follow Nwaila's tweets.