As I reflect on April’s whirlwind of long weekends and celebrations, freedom has been front of mind. South Africa recently celebrated Freedom Day, commemorating our country’s first democratic elections on the 27th of April 1994. This year, the bonus holiday on Monday meant I could enjoy an extra-long birthday weekend off — YAY!
Have you noticed that a quarter way through the year, less seems to be more in 2025? (Not always a good thing when it comes to things such as road maintenance, hospital funding and the like – but that’s a topic for another day). Perhaps it’s the Baader-Meinhof effect (also known as the frequency illusion) in full swing, but once I started thinking about dropping the things I don’t need in my life, the universe (and my ever-diminishing closet) began cheering me on.
There’s a certain crispness to the breeze lately, isn’t there? A whisper of something shifting, something new unfolding. It’s been a while since we last sent out the Toast Tribune, our little monthly love letter to you all. Life, as it does, got in the way—busy days turned into weeks, then months. But here we are, recommitting to this rhythm, dusting off the typewriter (or, well, the laptop) and pouring fresh energy into sharing our stories with you again.
How brands can authentically embrace green initiatives In today’s world, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a critical component of responsible business practice and a significant factor influencing consumer choices. At The Toast, we understand that authentically embracing green initiatives is essential for brands that want to resonate with environmentally conscious consumers and make a positive impact on the planet. Here’s how brands can authentically integrate sustainability into their marketing strategies.
Why I love storytelling in our digital age Imagine a world overtaken by the glow of screens, where interactions are orchestrated by algorithms and responses curated by AI. While efficiency reigns supreme, a profound emptiness endures. This is the potential future we face should we lose sight of the very essence that makes us human: Our ability to connect, empathise and create new things.
Hometalk at Versnit 2024 In the heart of South Africa’s philanthropic landscape, Atterbury Trust stands as a beacon of hope, delivering essential services to those in need across various communities. Our agency, Twisted Toast Digital, has had the privilege of partnering with this remarkable charity for a decade, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact of their work. As we reflect on our journey together, the annual Versnit event, held at the enchanting Rust en Vrede Estate in Stellenbosch, serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective goodwill and the exceptional quality of South African ubuntu.
A journey of gratitude and growth As we step into the festive season, marking the end of another year and the dawn of a new one, it’s a time for reflection and anticipation. This moment is particularly poignant at Twisted Toast Digital, as we look back on the world adapted to a new normal post-COVID-19.
The power of unity One of my favourite poems of all time is Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas’ “Do not go gentle into that good night.” While the poem is commonly interpreted as a son’s appeal to his ailing father to sustain his will to live, it has always resonated more profoundly with me, encapsulating the prevailing spirit of South Africans today. We’re a tenacious bunch and it is probably not too surprising that our desire to survive and thrive, no matter the adversity we face, is tattooed on our nation’s psyche. Which brings me to sport and more specifically rugby and our heroic Boks.
Align your brand with a cause that saves lives October marks the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM), a campaign that brings the realities of breast cancer to the forefront of public conversation. With pink ribbons symbolising the struggle, hope and resilience of countless women, this month is far more than just a superficial observance. While awareness is crucial, it’s only a piece of the puzzle in the fight against breast cancer — a condition that is unfortunately increasing among South African women and stands as one of the most common cancers amongst women across races and classes.
Why spring brings renewed optimism As the first sun of Spring Day stretches its golden arms across the horizon, there’s an undeniable feeling of rejuvenation in the air. The season carries with it not just the promise of fresh flowers, budding trees and balmy air, but a sense of renewed vitality that reverberates through the community, from homes to businesses. As we revel in this natural upturn, there is a unique power to this positivity that extends into thinking at Twisted Toast Digital.
