The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) South Africa’s Education Council has announced the 15 delegates to its Front Row Youth Industry Programme for 2026.
The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) South Africa’s Education Council has announced the 15 delegates to its Front Row Youth Industry Programme for 2026 (Image supplied)
The IAB SA Education Council’s Front Row initiative aims to identify and provide a platform for the 15 young, ambitious, and talented members of the digital media and marketing industry, offering a springboard to launch their careers.
Through the programme, participants will receive sponsored access to award ceremonies, digital media and marketing educational programmes, workshops and courses, and industry-leading events.
These activities and platforms also provide knowledge sharing, networking, and mentorship from respected giants in the South African digital media and marketing landscape. The experience aims to inspire the participants and is a springboard for their future careers.
Front Row Youth Industry Programme for 2026 delegates
| The delegates |
| Amile | Buthelezi | Levergy | Intern |
| Buhle | Motshwene | Publicis Groupe Africa | Junior strategist |
| Emihle | Belewa | The Up&Up Group | Marketing intern |
| Kezia | Gamedze | Penquin Advertising | Junior copywriter |
| Lutho | Bawuti | Dentsu - Carat | Strategy intern |
| Mahlogonolo | Ramoloto | Dentsu - iProspect | Intern |
| Ndivhu | Ralushai | M+C Saatchi Abel | Copywriter |
| Nix | Winterburn | Machine_ | Intern copywriter |
| Nombulelo | Ngwendu | DentsuX | intern |
| Nompilo | Hlabangani | WPP Media | Junior digital media planner |
| Qhawekazi | Ngada | Dentsu | Social media intern |
| Shay | Chetty | Zenith | Junior strategist |
| Thembelihle | Phetla | Ogilvy SA | Junior strategist |
| Tinyiko | Nkuna | JNPR | Junior conversation architect |
| Yingcwaliso | Mabandla | Ogilvy CPT | Art director |
Future is in your hands
Addressing the 2026 cohort of 15 Front Row delegates, lead chair of the IAB SA Education Council, and founder of Little Digital, Su Little, says, “The future is in your hands, and we’re excited to walk this path with you.
“This is your moment to grow and make an impact. Hats off to the peers and leaders who’ve nominated the talent. We need more of you!”
The delegates are nominated by industry peers and leaders.
Opportunity of a lifetime
Amy Gajjar, outgoing 2026 delegate says, “I’m truly grateful for the Front Row Program. It’s been a life-changing experience that has exposed me to opportunities and spaces I never imagined I’d be part of so early in my career.
She adds that Front Row has been one of the most valuable experiences of her creative journey.
“It gave me access to incredible industry events, inspiring leaders, and a network of talented peers who continue to motivate me.
“I left the programme with new knowledge, meaningful connections, and a renewed excitement for my future in advertising. I would encourage every young creative to apply. It’s truly an opportunity of a lifetime.”
Making a difference
Acknowledging the rigorous selection process, project lead of the Front Row initiative and member of the IAB SA Education Council, Deborah Whitlock, extends her admiration for the successful delegates.
“This programme grows from strength to strength, and once again, we had more nominations than the previous year. It truly was an extremely tough decision to select our final 15.
“To the industry, we thank you for your continued sponsorship and support. The difference made in the lives of these young people is enormous.
“To our 2026 delegates, we encourage you to embrace these opportunities with open arms as you commence the programme”.
Kyle Oosthuizen, chief executive officer of Blue Robot, comments, “I’m beyond excited to watch the growth of these 15 individuals over the next 12 months.
“Chosen from more than 120 candidates across South Africa, they’ve already distinguished themselves by taking the first step toward accelerating their careers.
“This programme offers them a rare opportunity to expand their networks, deepen their industry knowledge, and lay the foundation for the success we know they’ll achieve.”
