South Africa, May 5 -- Cracks in the foundation

Consider this: according to Scopen's 2024 New Business Report (via Bizcommunity), South Africa alone saw 45 new agency pitches last year. That's a powerful signal of client dissatisfaction.

And the people powering this industry? Many are opting out of the agency world entirely.

Independent talent collectives are thriving. Abstract Club currently has 38 senior media professionals on their books (up 30% from 2020), while the unofficial "Strategy Girls" group consists of 25 digital strategists operating as freelancers.

At the same time, agencies are struggling to hire fresh talent-and many of the brilliant minds I've worked with for decades are burning out or walking away.

For someone like...