Global Brand, Local Heart: Inside McDonald’s South Africa’s Marketing Strategy

From digital-first insights to ethical leadership, Venelize de Lange from media update unpacks how McDonald's South Africa blends global strategy with local storytelling to stay relevant, responsible and loved by fast-food fans nationwide.

South Africa's Freelance Market Is Growing — Here's What's Changing and How to Seize It

South Africa's freelancing scene is evolving — and fast. Venelize de Lange from media update explores current trends, in-demand skills and emerging opportunities for freelancers who want to stay competitive in 2026. 

Answer Engine Optimisation: How to Prepare Your Marketing for the Chatbot Era

With AI chatbots and voice assistants now being the primary way people search, marketers need to adapt their content to stay visible.  media update's Venelize de Lange explores Answer Engine Optimisation and how marketers can use it in a time where AI decides which answers audiences see. 

media update's Top Five Mzansi Ads for 2025

South Africa's advertising industry is buzzing with originality in 2025. Venelize de Lange from media update unpacks the must-know campaigns of the year, revealing how brands are redefining connection and impact.

USD$70-Trillion in Inherited Wealth: A Looming Threat to Global Inequality Post-G20

With inherited wealth set to reshape global inequality, Venelize de Lange from media update delves into its implications and how the media can responsibly cover the evolving debate on wealth, fairness and policy change.  

South Africa Is Turning Purple on 21 November — Here's What Media Need to Know

As the G20 Summit draws near, more and more people turn their profile pictures purple in support of women in South Africa. media update's Venelize de Lange  explores what the upcoming GBV shutdown means for ethical, informed media coverage of sensitive issues, and how freelance writers and journalists can write about it. 

Want to Change Consumer Habits? Nestlé Did It Through Emotional Imprinting

Marketers often aim to convince, or entice, their target audience through advertisements and campaigns, but what if the real opportunity lies in reshaping behaviour? media update's Venelize de Lange explores how deep consumer insight and long-term strategy can drive lasting change, offering lessons for brands looking to influence consumer habits.

Why Psychological Literacy is Important in PR

Psychology is not just for the comfort of your therapist's couch. Venelize de Lange from media update explains why psychological literacy is a core competency for PR professionals who must understand how audiences think, feel and behave in a digitally driven world.

Everything You Need to Know About Article Schema

Ever heard of article schema markup? Venelize de Lange from media update explains what it is and how it helps writers, from journalists to bloggers, stand out on Google and reach wider audiences.

Five Common PR Faux Pas and How to Avoid Them

PR slip-ups can happen to even the most experienced professionals. Venelize de Lange from media update unpacks five common PR faux pas and how to dodge them before they derail your next campaign.