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TikTok video shows inapproprite behaviour; sees Veli Ngubane's immediate resignation - industry reactsAvatar has confirmed that Veli Ngubane has stepped down from his role as co-chief creative officer, effective immediately, following a TikTok video that shows inappropriate behaviour from the creative towards two women at the recent Cannes Lions.  Veli Ngubane has resigned from Avator following a TikTok video that shows inappropriate behaviour from the creative The agency's statement reads: "The Avatar leadership team, led by founder and Group CEO Zibusiso Mkhwanazi, will continue to lead the business, with Phil Ireland appointed as sole Chief Creative Officer on an interim basis, ensuring uninterrupted service, creative excellence and continuity for our clients, our people and our partners.Avatar holds all of its people to the highest standards of professional conduct. We do not tolerate behaviour that falls short of those standards, and we act when it does.We thank our clients, partners and colleagues for their continued confidence in Avatar and the wider Avatar Agency Group."  The TikTok, which has been widely circulated, is by content creators Coco Bassey and her sister Kay, who describe being repeatedly approached by an intoxicated man wearing a Cannes Lions attendee badge. Ngubane was in attendance as a jury member. Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela first shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that Veli had resigned from his leadership role at the agency. The footage quickly gained traction on social media, with many users criticising Veli’s conduct and calling for accountability.
The clip has sparked widespread criticism online, prompting Avatar to announce his resignation. It has seen a strong reaction from the industry. ACA, Creative Circle and IAB statementThe Association for Communication and Advertising (ACA), the Creative Circle and the IAB have issued a statemtn saying they are aware of the video currently circulating on social media. "We believe there is no place in our industry for conduct that undermines the dignity, safety or professional standing of others. "Our industry is built on creativity, collaboration and trust. Those values can only flourish in an environment where people treat one another with respect and uphold the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct. "Leadership carries with it a responsibility to model the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and respect. We will continue to champion a culture where everyone can participate, create and lead free from harassment, discrimination or abuse. "The ACA, the Creative Circle and the IAB are committed to promoting an advertising and communications industry that is respectful, accountable and worthy of the exceptional talent it represents, both in South Africa and internationally," says the statement. Open Chair Code pledgeididthat.co expressed its outrage on Instagram and called for all agencies to sign the Open Chair Code pledge. Open Chair called on men to also be part of the change. |