Since its inception, Ogilvy South Africa made a commitment that extended beyond its own business needs. It committed to building the next generation of South Africa's industry leaders. Today, that project has become one of the industry's most significant youth-development success stories.
“We’ve supported and developed over 284 graduates, investing R24.8m in entry-level talent for the industry,” says Angela Madlala, chief people officer, Ogilvy SA. “What began as a deliberate response to the industry's diversity and skills challenges has become a proven pipeline for future leaders, strategists, creatives, account managers, designers, creative technologists, brand managers, and innovators”.
Today, the impact of the programme extends far beyond the numbers. It is reflected in the people whose careers it has helped launch. Former OG graduates are now leading work at global technology companies, top agencies, innovative independent shops and major brands.
Their ranks include professionals such as Thuto Mothoagae, senior copywriter at Publicis Groupe, Dannya Baiocchi, senior copywriter at AKQA; and Athenkosi Jarana, creative strategist at Playmakers, to name a few.
For many alumni, the programme represented far more than a first job, it provided the framework for long-term career growth, mentorship, and accelerated leadership.
“The OG Programme helped me immerse myself in everything and stay curious, preparing me for the real world. Ogilvy is amazing because of the people who live, play, and work there” - Thuto Mothoagae, senior copywriter at Publicis Groupe
“The Ogilvy Giants programme didn't just open doors into the industry; it provided the framework for success from day one, the mentorship and hands-on experience gave me the confidence to transform insights into strategies that now move some of South Africa's largest brands” - Athenkosi Jarana, creative strategist at Playmakers.
“The formal lessons were invaluable, but it was less about what was taught and more about what was passed on... a senior creative who pulled a chair beside mine and showed me how to sharpen an idea... a late night with other grads, all of us nervous and hopeful... there was generosity everywhere – people giving time, sharing knowledge, making space” - Dannya Baiocchi, senior copywriter at AKQA
Together, these stories form part of a growing alumni network whose collective success continues to create ripple effects far beyond Ogilvy itself, shaping teams, businesses and brands across the broader marketing industry.
Madlala continues: “The Ogilvy Graduate programme was never designed solely to build talent for Ogilvy, it was designed to strengthen the entire industry, and that belief remains unchanged. Although we’ve had the privileged to absorb an average of 73% after their 12-month program into our business, over the past decade, our graduates have gone on to build careers across agencies, publishers, technology platforms, consultancies, and client organisations. Their impact demonstrates the value of sustained investment in young South Africans”.
As the industry continues to evolve, the need for fresh perspectives, diverse voices and new ideas has never been greater. The Ogilvy Giants Graduate Programme continues to provide that platform.
Madlala continues: “With applications now open for the 2027 intake, we’re looking for the next generation of ambitious thinkers, changemakers, cultural shapeshifters, creators and problem-solvers. Graduates who want to build careers in tech, influence, advertising, strategy, creativity, digital and emerging disciplines.”
Successful candidates will join a programme built around real work, real clients, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities to learn across disciplines. More importantly, they will become part of a community and legacy that has been shaping careers and transforming the industry for more than a decade.
The programme has demonstrated that meaningful transformation is not about ticking boxes. It is about opening doors, creating opportunities that give youth the skills to contribute to our economy and sustain our industry for generations to come.
Pete Case, CEO and chief creative officer of Ogilvy South Africa, concludes: "As Ogilvy reflects on more than a decade of impact, one thing is clear: every giant starts somewhere. When we invest in talent, we invest in the future of our industry. The OG Programme has always been about creating opportunities for exceptional young people to learn, grow and lead. We’re excited to welcome the next generation of Giants and to see where their journeys take them."
Applications for the 2027 Ogilvy Giants Graduate Programme are now open. For more information, visit https://og.ogilvy.co.za/
