South Africa, July 31 -- Representing the agency were client service leader Mark Middleton and design leader Carike Strauss, who flew more than 13,000 kilometres from Johannesburg to the East End of London for three days of learning, networking, and global inspiration. But this wasn't just about attending. DoubleShift was on the international stage as a finalist at the Independent Agency Awards, which took place at the festival, nominated for Best Specialist Sector Campaign for their electric rebrand of fintech client, Monavate.

While they didn't walk away with the trophy, being recognised among the top three agencies globally in a highly competitive category was no small feat. For a South African indie agency to stand shoulder to should...