Cape Town will host the creative community from across Africa and the Middle East from October 4 to 9 for Loeries Creative Week 2026, a six-day programme bringing together creative professionals, brands, agencies, marketers, media organisations, educators and emerging talent.
More than an awards event, Loeries Creative Week provides a platform for the creative industry to exchange ideas, build relationships and explore how creativity is responding to changing cultural, commercial and technological realities.
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The programme will culminate in the Loerie Awards on October 8 and 9, when some of the region’s most impactful creative work will be recognised. Cape Town will once again serve as the centre for judging, industry learning, networking and celebration.
The city’s strong creative ecosystem, including advertising agencies, production companies, design businesses, educational institutions and cultural organisations, is expected to provide delegates with access to one of the region’s most active creative economies.
Among the highlights of the week will be the Loeries International Seminar of Creativity, featuring more than a dozen speakers from around the world. Attendees will also have access to MasterClasses, the Loeries Expo and the official afterparty at Cabo Beach Club.
Loeries CEO Preetesh Sewraj said the event continues to evolve while giving the creative industry access to new ideas and approaches to producing breakthrough work. International communications industry figures including Susan Credle from the United States and Dörte Spengler-Ahrens from Germany are also expected to participate.
The 2026 edition introduces changes to the Loeries award categories to reflect the continued evolution of creative practice and highlight both strategic thinking and emerging talent.
A new Creative Strategy category will recognise the ideas, insights and strategic thinking behind successful creative work, including problem-solving and the ability to develop ideas that connect with audiences and create meaningful impact.
The Young Directors Award is another new category for 2026. It will recognise emerging film directors from Africa and the Middle East and provide young filmmaking talent with greater visibility and opportunities to connect with the wider creative industry.
The Audio & Radio category has also been expanded with additional subcategories, reflecting the growing use of audio across broadcasting, digital platforms, branded content and emerging media formats.
The organisers say the changes demonstrate the Loeries’ commitment not only to celebrating established creative excellence but also to identifying new directions, talent and opportunities within the industry.
The City of Cape Town is supporting the event as host, with city representatives highlighting its international character and its ability to bring creative professionals from Africa and the Middle East together. Loeries Creative Week 2026 is expected to provide a major platform for creative exchange, professional networking and recognition while showcasing the growing influence of Africa and the Middle East in the global creative economy.