The Uganda Advertising Association (UAA) has launched the 4th edition of the Silverback Awards, East Africa’s premier recognition platform for creativity in the marketing communications industry. The awards, themed “Elevating the Grind,” aim to inspire industry professionals to strive for greatness, not just locally but globally.
According to Rommel Jasi, Chairman of the Uganda Advertising Association, the Silverback Awards were founded on a clear vision: to inspire the industry to strive for greatness, not just locally, but on the global stage. As the official representatives of Cannes Lions in Uganda, the UAA sees this platform as a stepping stone, preparing members and industry players to think, act, and create with a world-class mindset.
The Loeries, Africa’s and the Middle East’s premier awards that recognize, reward, and foster creative excellence in the advertising and brand communication industry, will manage the Silverback Awards. The Cannes Lions, which celebrate creative excellence and effectiveness in every sector and discipline of the industry, will also be a key part of the awards.
The submission portal for the Silverback Awards will open on August 4, 2025, and will close on October 3, 2025. Eligible campaigns will only be considered as campaigns that featured between August 1, 2024, and July 31, 2025. A select panel of judges from across the continent will then judge the submissions from October 20 to November 6, 2025.
The awards will also provide an opportunity for young creatives to showcase their talent. The Young Silverback program will take place from November 11 to 13, 2025, and will give young professionals a chance to demonstrate their creative genius in Public Relations, Marketing, creative film, and design.
The campaign period will culminate in the annual Communication Industry Symposium on November 14, 2025, and the Awards gala on November 15, 2025. The crème de la crème of those who have submitted and been judged accordingly will be awarded with internship opportunities, medals, and certificates.
Preetesh Sewraj, CEO of The Loeries, stated that the organization has built and maintained a credible awards platform, from the integrity of entries to the prestige of the gala night organized by UAA. “Our hope is that every participant walks away from this experience inspired to sharpen their vision, fuel their creativity, and keep pushing the boundaries of excellence,” he added.
This year’s Silverback Awards are powered by Eskmi, Mobicast, Next Media, Trace East Africa, Uganda Breweries Limited, and Reelforge Analytics. The UAA is confident that the awards will continue to inspire and recognize creative excellence in the marketing communications industry.