Creative Circle

Dear members

I can't believe two years has come and gone and I'm writing my final letter as chairman of The Creative Circle. Damn that was quick.

My term has been enlightening and given me real insight into the amazing talent in our industry. I am truly inspired and excited by the creative muscle that exists in South Africa and yet I also realise there is still a lot of untapped potential that needs to be brought to the fore. Specifically, we need to be doing a lot more as an industry in identifying and mentoring the next generation of creatives. This is an ongoing challenge and something I'm sure we'll focus on for many years to come.

I also believe we don't shout loudly enough about our successes. South Africa has won 6 grand prixs at Cannes in the last 5 years, which is quite remarkable when you consider that we hadn't won a single one before 2006! Of course that's not to say we should ever rest on our laurels. We need to continually develop and improve the standard of South Africa's creative product and enhance our reputation as one of our country's world class industries. There are plenty of accolades still be achieved (the integrated Grand Prix at Cannes, for example :).

I'd like to express my gratitude to the EXCO that has supported me over the last two years. We are fierce competitors when we have to be but we are also able to work together for the better of our industry. This is a rare trait and one that visiting international creatives are always amazed by. Long may it survive.

I'd also like congratulate Chris Gotz on his election as chair for 2012/13 and wish him best of luck in his tenure. May it go from strength to strength.

Your EXCO for 2012 is attached.

Happy holidays

Brett