Johannesburg, September 2025 – This Heritage Month, as South Africa celebrates its rich and diverse cultural legacy, the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA) has officially begun judging for the 2025 PRISMS Awards.
The timing could not be more fitting: just as Heritage Month reminds us of the values we inherit and pass on, the awards recognise the stories, strategies, and standards that will shape the future of public relations and communications across the African continent.
“This year’s Awards theme, The Human Factor, could not be more relevant. It speaks directly to the essence of PR, which is the courage to care, the empathy to listen, and the responsibility to act with integrity,” says Paul W. Reynell, Chief Judge of the 2025 PRISMS Awards and PRISA Vice-President. “In an age increasingly defined by data and automation, the PRISMS remind us of what makes communication truly powerful – the ability to connect people, bridge divides, and influence society for the better.”
A panel of 50 esteemed judges, including leaders, mentors, and innovators in the PR profession, will assess campaigns not only on outcomes but also on their humanity and purpose. The judging process also incorporates the PRISM Young Voices Programme, which pairs emerging PR professionals with experienced judges, ensuring that the values of excellence and integrity are passed on to the next generation.
The 2025 PRISMS Awards have received 392 entries, underscoring the strength and creativity of the African PR industry. “This response reflects both the resilience of our profession and the appetite for work that demonstrates not just innovation, but impact with heart. It is proof that The Human Factor is alive and thriving in our industry,” adds Reynell.
The winners will be announced on 18 October 2025 at a prestigious gala dinner in Johannesburg, following a two-day industry summit. Both the PRISMS Awards and Summit will bring together communication professionals from across the continent to share insights, celebrate innovation, and collectively shape the future of an industry that continues to evolve while remaining rooted in humanity.
“Just as heritage celebrates the richness of our past, the PRISMS celebrate the promise of our future, where creativity, integrity, and humanity remain at the heart of communication”, Reynell concludes.
For more information on the PRISMS Awards and summit, email info@prisa.co.za or visit https://www.prisa.co.za/.