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The case for generative AI is using it The term AI native may soon start replacing digital native for marketing and tech companies. A new digital divide is forming, one that separates those who embrace AI tools and use it for everything and those who don’t. People who understand generative AI tools have integrated it fully in their lives, for work and personal use. They don’t need to think about when and why to use genAI systems based on large language models. It’s obvious to them that these tools have already reshaped human existence and they are on board. They’re all in.

More than a decade ago, we had the privilege of meeting Zahn Hulme, executive trustee of Atterbury Trust and head of brand marketing at Atterbury Group, to discuss how our agency could assist with content marketing. What started out as a business relationship soon evolved into a deep and treasured friendship. And it all revolves around the simple, yet profound sentiment inherent in the Afrikaans word omgee.

We often get asked the same question: “So where did the name Twisted Toast come from?” The short answer? Breakfast. But not just any breakfast. This was no Wimpy fry-up or standard hotel buffet. Many moons ago, Louis and I were at a company conference with our team from UCM (UpperCase Media, the joint venture where we published FHM and heat magazine for Media24 and Emap). The venue? A tiny boutique escape in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands called Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.

Reflections on the 2025 Waterfall City Tournament of Champions As the golden hues of late autumn bathe Jozi in warmth, we had the privilege of attending the 2025 Waterfall City Tournament of Champions, a remarkable event that transcends the boundaries of traditional golf tournaments. This Sunshine Tour event, powered by Attacq and held at the esteemed Royal Johannesburg Golf Club, was not just a display of athletic prowess but a testament to the spirit of inclusivity and unity in sport.

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.