It's the time of year when we apply our learnings from the past 12 months to shape the next 12. Our prediction for 2025 is that we'll ride in on 2024's coattails. And, far from being ragged and tatty, 2024's coat is remarkably well-maintained, says Kevin Welman, Director at ByDesign Communications. 

Regine le Roux, Founder and Managing Director of Reputation Matters, says that when it comes to reputation management, values are non-negotiable. Values drive behaviour, shape your brand and ultimately determine your reputation. Reputation is the collective perception held by your stakeholders — whether accurate or not, their perception becomes their reality. 

Havas Red South Africa, the PR arm of Havas, has announced the acquisition of Novartis as a new client. Novartis and Havas align as organisations, both committed to making a difference in people's lives and impacting communities.

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Africa has partnered with the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management in support of the mental health and well-being of PR professionals. As members of the Global Alliance, IABC Africa members will benefit from the collaboration with the World Health Organization's (WHO) QualityRights. 

SPAR has announced that it has once again partnered with Bata Shoes to give children in need a 'Start Like No Other'. By offering 500 000 pairs of Bata foundation phase school shoes for just R70 — available to customers who spend R350 or more and swipe their SPAR Rewards card — the initiative aims to provide children with the tools they need to thrive.

The Mustadafin Foundation has announced the launch of its annual stationery drive. This drive is a beacon of hope for young learners. Through this initiative, the foundation is helping to equip children with the tools they need to embrace education, break the cycle of poverty and paint a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

During a time when communication, including public relations, can reach larger audiences with smaller efforts, it is easy for PR pros to lean in the direction of global campaigning to save resources. However, certain benefits of localised campaigning are irreplaceable and can change the game significantly for brands.

ENGIE South Africa has been awarded the Sustainable Energy Transition (SET) label certification by Bureau Veritas. ENGIE says that this milestone highlights its continued commitment to developing, building, operating and dismantling renewable energy projects that are deeply integrated into local communities, respectful of nature and instrumental in reducing carbon emissions.

1win, in partnership with Adjah Cancer Support Ghana, has sent Christmas donations to over 200 cancer patients and their families in Accra, Ghana. Through the initiative, the global iGaming brand 1win has donated food hampers and comforting Christmas gifts to support families battling cancer.

With the start of a new year, it's crucial to prioritise and hone in on necessary practices to excel at our jobs. For those in the PR industry, there are a few essential habits that are required to stand out among the rest. Here are the top seven practices that will make you the best of the best.