In a defining moment for South Africa’s creative industry, Liesl Lategan has been named as the country’s official representative in the prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity See It Be It (SIBI) programme for 2026—an announcement that signals both personal triumph and national pride.
Revealed on 13 April 2026, the selection places Lategan among an elite global cohort of 20 creatives from 15 markets, all chosen for their exceptional talent and potential to shape the future of the creative economy. Designed to accelerate the careers of women and non-binary professionals, the See It Be It programme has become one of the most influential platforms for elevating underrepresented voices in the global creative landscape.
A Global Stage for Local Excellence
Set to take place from 22 to 26 June 2026 in Cannes, France, the programme unfolds within the heart of the Cannes Lions Festival—widely regarded as the world’s most prestigious celebration of creative excellence. For Lategan, Executive Producer at Spitfire Films, this opportunity represents more than professional recognition—it is a gateway to global influence.
Participants in the programme gain access to a carefully curated experience that includes mentorship from industry leaders, private masterclasses, tailored career development sessions, and rare behind-the-scenes exposure to the inner workings of the festival itself. Each element is designed to sharpen leadership capabilities, expand creative thinking, and position participants for long-term impact in their respective industries.
Ster-Kinekor’s Continued Commitment to Creative Growth
As the exclusive Cannes Lions Festival representative in South Africa, Ster-Kinekor plays a pivotal role in championing local creative talent on the global stage. The company’s long-standing commitment to storytelling and innovation continues to open doors for South African voices to be heard internationally.
“Ster-Kinekor has always been passionate about storytelling, creativity and the power of ideas to move audiences. We are very excited that Liesl Lategan has been selected as part of the 2026 See It Be It cohort, and we are sure she will share her learnings and experiences from the programme far and wide across the industry on her return from Cannes,” says Lynne Wylie.
A Vision Rooted in Purpose and Passion
For Lategan, creativity is not just a profession—it is a calling.
Describing her selection as a profound honour, she emphasised the deeply personal connection she has with her craft. “Creativity and being creative are completely natural for me. They are the fabric of my life and my purpose, which is inextricably linked to my business and its people,” she shared.
Her vision extends beyond personal growth. Through her participation, she aims to return with insights that will not only strengthen her leadership but also further position Spitfire Films as a business grounded in transformation, purpose, and passion.
Driving Change Through Representation
Since its inception in 2014, the See It Be It programme has welcomed more than 150 participants from 44 markets, all united by a common goal: to address the gender imbalance within the creative industry, particularly at creative director level.
The initiative stands as a cornerstone of Cannes Lions’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—creating a pipeline of empowered leaders who reflect the richness and diversity of global audiences.
This year’s cohort reflects that mission, bringing together creatives from across disciplines and continents, each contributing unique perspectives that will shape the future of storytelling, branding, and communication.
A Powerful Global Network
Supporting the 2026 cohort are distinguished alumni tutors, including Leena Gupta and Natasha Lashly, who will guide participants through an immersive learning journey designed to unlock their full potential.
Alongside Lategan, the cohort features a diverse lineup of creatives from countries including Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Brazil, the United States, South Korea, Lebanon, Denmark, New Zealand, Singapore, Ghana, Thailand, India, Australia, Serbia, and Chile—each selected for their ability to influence and innovate within the global creative ecosystem.
A Moment Bigger Than One Individual
Lategan’s selection is not just a personal milestone—it is a reflection of South Africa’s growing influence in the global creative arena. It highlights the country’s ability to produce world-class talent capable of competing, collaborating, and leading on international platforms.
As the countdown to Cannes begins, one thing is certain: South Africa will be represented by a creative force driven by purpose, passion, and the power to inspire.
And when Liesl Lategan steps onto that global stage, she won’t just be carrying her own story—she’ll be carrying the voice of an entire industry ready to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
