Winning a Bookmark Award isn't just about recognition — it's a ticket to joining the ranks of digital trailblazers shaping the future of the industry, the Bookmark Awards says.

In its 17th year, the Bookmark Awards says that it offers an unparalleled platform for digital agencies, publishers and brands to shine. Winning opens doors to networking opportunities with industry leaders, influencers and peers, helping forge connections and elevate brands to new heights.

"The Bookmark Awards aren't just about winning trophies — they're about celebrating the innovation, creativity and impact that define South Africa's digital marketing landscape," says Elizabeth Mokwena, Jury President for 2025 and Home Care Executive Marketing Director for Unilever Southern Africa.

"This year, we're looking for work that doesn't just push boundaries but redefines them. We want to see campaigns that spark conversations, solve real-world challenges and create meaningful connections with audiences. If you've created something that you are truly proud of, this is your chance to shine and inspire the industry to reach new heights," Mokwena adds.

Important Dates and Entry Fee Information

According to the awards, important dates and the entry fees comprise: 

  • Entries Open: Wednesday, 11 February — Wednesday, 16 April.
  • Early Bird Discount: Wednesday, 11 February — Monday, 3 March (10% off entry fees).
  • Standard Fees: Tuesday, 4 March — Monday, 31 March.
  • Late Entry Period: Tuesday, 1 April — Wednesday, 16 April.

The awards add that work produced between Friday, 1 March 2024 and Friday, 28 February 2025 qualifies for entry. 

Categories

This year's Bookmark Awards feature updated categories and refined criteria designed to reflect the rapid evolution of the digital world. Creative agencies, publishers, or brands have categories tailored to showcase their expertise, the awards says. Visit the website to explore the full list of categories and find the perfect fit for your submission.

Jury nominations

Join the ranks of industry leaders as part of the 2025 Bookmark Awards jury. This is a chance to evaluate groundbreaking work, set benchmarks for excellence and make a lasting impact on the digital marketing landscape. Submit nominations before Friday, 14 February by filling out this form.

Masterclasses

The awards adds that the IAB is offering two exclusive online masterclasses designed to give entrants the tools and insights needed to create submissions that stand out. Led by top industry experts, these sessions will help participants to maximise their chances of success:

Publishers Masterclass (Friday, 21 February at 11:00):

Hosted by Jerusha Raath, Publisher at News24, the awards says that this session dives deep into the publishing categories and criteria. Learn how to position your work for success and understand how the updated categories now cater to a broader range of publishing entities beyond traditional hard news. Register here.

Agencies Masterclass (Friday, 28 February at 11:00):

Led by Alex Goldberg, internationally awarded Creative Partner at Ogilvy Cape Town, this session will teach creatives how to craft compelling entries that grab judges' attention, the awards says. Discover how to align your work with the categories, highlight measurable results and present your campaign in a way that stands out. Register here.

The Bookmark Awards concludes that the awards are more than just accolades — they're a celebration of the bold ideas, innovative campaigns and creative brilliance that drive South Africa's digital marketing industry forward. 

For more information, visit www.thebookmarks.co.za. You can also follow the Bookmark Awards on Facebook, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor