The awards say that different industry experts were invited and selected based on their experience in the marketing, communications and advertising sector. The local chapter of the Effie's were looking for 'trail blazers' who embody the qualities needed to represent the nature of the awards.

Kodisang says that he is inspired by telling brand stories that resonate with people and grow businesses. He believes that awards are not only great for the 'bragging rights' that they afford the winner but because they constantly encourage those at the helm of creativity to put their best work out, which also produces results.

"We've had to go through some of the compelling marketing cases and then scoring them based on their powerful cases and business effectiveness. It is a rigorous process considering that this is the first Effie's in South Africa but I'm delightful and honoured to form part of the jury," adds Kodisang.

"Awards such as these are particularly great because they prove marketing effectiveness, and this is especially important because it demonstrates that marketing is an important connector of brands and customers. More so, in uncertain times and during crisis, marketing drives brand value and leadership," Kodisang says.

"The Effie Awards essentially stand for effectiveness in marketing, spotlighting ideas that work and encouraging thoughtful dialogue about the drivers of marketing effectiveness and really that's what one looks for in the submitted work," Kodisang concludes.

For more information, visit www.effieawards.co.za. You can also follow the Effie Awards South Africa on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram