The Ideas Expo creative conference is in its third year running and is currently the only creative forum that happens annually in Botswana. According to organizers, the Expo which is set to take place on the 21st and 22nd of June, will this year host the country’s first ever Advertising Awards. “The whole point of Ideas Expo is not only to offer inspiration on how creatives can make a living but it is also to encourage and recognize those who are doing amazing work in the industry. So at this year’s conference, we decided to go beyond the usual testimonials from key players in the industry but to include something more hence these awards,” revealed Tumiso Mabusela, co- founder of Ideas Expo.He went on to add that these Awards will be hosted by the Ideas Expo in partnership with the Association of Communication Agencies.
The two day conference will be packed with different activities under the theme, Ideas without borders. “As the theme suggests, we are looking at breaking boundaries between industries and disciplines by increasing potential collaboration in various fi elds. We also want to export our local creativity globally to enhance connections,” said Calvin Bosilong of Ideas Expo.
As with any awards, there will be criteria used to select material that can qualify and the categories include, film and TV commercials, Print communications, Radio communications, communication design, digital and interactive communication, digital integrated campaign, Pr campaigns, Live events and sponsorship, outdoor and collateral media, young creative of the year award, student category and Lifetime achievement/appreciation award.
“Association of Communications Agencies is very happy to be a part of these awards. The Ideas Expo guys approached us at the right time because for the longest time we have been planning to have these sorts of awards and when they asked us to partner with them, we were very excited and we hope for it to be an annual activity. Advertising is very critical in the creative industry, it has helped a lot of brands to grow so it is only right that we celebrate the industry and award those who have continued to do amazing work,” revealed interim chairman of Association of Communications Agencies and Managing Director of Horizon Ogilvy and Mather, Thabo Majola.
He added that there would be a press conference Tuesday 21st May to give more clarifi cation on the categories. “We are encouraging all creatives to enter and be a part of these awards,” he added that, “at the moment we do not have sponsors yet but I believe that once word goes out, we will be able to attract sponsors that can be a part these awards.”
There will be 8 speakers at this year’s conference, exhibitions and social mixers as well as the first Advertising Awards.