Justine Drake, content director at John Brown Media

How do you feel about judging at this year’s Loeries?

I am absolutely honoured and I feel so inspired!

Tell us more about yourself and why you believe you were selected – your judging experience and so on.

My experience in the industry spans three decades working with agencies and publishing houses; as a journo, an editor, an author, a stylist, a director, a trends consultant. You name it, I’ve probably done it…

John Brown Media launches inspiring new cooking series with local celebrity Justine Drake

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When you heard about being selected as a judge, how did you celebrate the news?

Um! …I didn’t celebrate…but I did feel very honoured and a wee bit proud.

What does this mean to you, personally?

It’s a great acknowledgement of my experience …and just bloody brilliant to be involved in such a renowned and respected creative process.

Which category will you be judging?

I judged in the Innovation categories

What do you expect to experience as a judge?

Awe, inspiration, delight…well I hope so anyway.

What specific criteria will you be looking for when judging?

Unique, trailblazing ideas, a non-conformist approach, cultural relevance and consideration, and bravery

You have some major experience in the creative industry. Could you comment on the impact of Covid-19 on the industry?

There are so many aspects, on so many levels…but let's choose a positive one….

The best bit is the public’s new and very low tolerance of BS…There is a genuine need/demand for more authenticity, more EQ, more social listening, which forces us as brand communicators to show up, listen more and be better...That’s a good thing!

Share a few of your favourite Loeries-related moments over the years – either from attending personally or agency winning work-related.

I am a first-timer so I am excited to see what's to come.

Any predictions of trends that are likely to stand out at Loeries 2021?

Most definitely the social impact of Covid-19.

What do you believe SA creatives bring to the Loeries judging mix?

A unique, multi-faceted view...The complexities of our heritage and the views, experience and insights of our eclectic panel ensure a fresh approach underpinned by diversity and relevance.

Lastly, what are you most looking forward to from Loeries 2021?

I'll be looking for real inspiration.

What does #FightTheGoodFight mean to you?

Stand up for what is right - don’t be afraid, make yourself heard, give a voice to those who don’t have one and never back down.