The theme for this year’s Women in Print events was ‘Printspired’ and attendees were left feeling inspired by the stellar line up of speakers and panel discussions about how to thrive in the industry. The events were held in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg during Women’s Month. Sign Africa, Africa Print and Modern Marketing were proud media partners of the event.
The Women in Print series has become a trusted platform for women not only in the printing, packaging, signage and visual communications sector but across all allied industries, affording the opportunity for women to be celebrated, recognised, inspired, motivated and encouraged to continue aspiring for greatness in every aspect of their professional, personal and social philanthropic journeys.
Some Advice From The Speakers And Panellists:
Heilet Grobler, Northern Chamber Co-Chairperson at Printing SA, said, ‘There are a lot of opportunities in this industry, including for those who want to start their own printing business. For those already in this industry, keep believing and don’t give up. It’s not just the printing industry that is going through difficulties – many industries are affected. We need to stand together.’
Grobler gave a few pointers to succeed in the industry: ‘Firstly, develop a strong foundation. Then stay updated on industry trends, and do your research. It’s also important to build a strong online presence. Seek out mentorship, be proactive and take initiative – don’t wait for opportunities,’ added Grobler.
Dr Felleng Yende, CEO of FP&M SETA, addressed the importance of training and skills development. ‘We’ve seen the evolution of printing, not from just analogue to digital, but also the evolution in terms of embracing many more women. In the world of technology, women have not only been instrumental in the innovation of the industry, but have also paved the way for future generations. The importance of skills development in printing and the need for highly skilled individuals has never been greater. With advancements in technology, such as digital printing, automation and software innovation, comes the necessity to equip the workforce with the proper skills to thrive in this dynamic environment. Continuous learning and skills development empower our professionals, especially women, to confidently navigate these challenges.’
Tiffany Fernandes, brand and marketing at FUJIFILM, spoke about how print provides a tactile experience. ‘We live in a digital world that brings about digital clutter, confusion and complexity. We crave something tactile. We crave something we can touch, feel and see. One of my branding principles is to create a sensory branding experience that touches the five senses, which helps the brand connect more with consumers.’
What trends do you predict for the future of the print industry in relation to digital media?
Jean Lloyd, Global Principal Analyst – Digital Labels and Packaging at Keypoint Intelligence, said that the future of the print industry is closely tied to the integration of digital media, creating a hybrid landscape where both mediums com plement each other.
‘One significant trend is the increasing use of personalised print, driven by data from digital platforms. Variable Data Printing is far from new in digital printing, but it was never the success we expected; it appears the world is ready for it now. As consumers demand more personalised experiences, print will adapt by leveraging digital insights to deliver customised content in packaging, marketing materials, and other printed communications,’ said Lloyd.
Heidie-Mari Middel, Production Team Leader, Production Print at KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa, said it is increasingly catering for the ‘niche’ market in the form of shorter runs of very personalised and individual printing of content. For example, wine labels and the packaging that goes with it. ‘We see this a lot in the liquor industry. Educational books, coupled with the story and illustration of the book based on the area and language of where the children are being taught, will be easier to facilitate. The use of QR codes and the integration of digital tools, together with the physical print, will become more advanced and will be used more to leverage both advertising on print media and digital media platforms. This will be done where you can scan a barcode and access the digital media site that offers videos and different types of information to engage with your consumer more,’ said Middel.
What advice would you give to young women entering the print industry?
‘First, let me say welcome. This industry needs your creativity, passion, and perspective more than ever! My advice? Don’t let the ‘old boys’ club’ mentality discourage you. Print might have a reputation for being traditional, but that’s exactly why it needs fresh voices like yours to push boundaries and innovate,’ said Kitty Mhlongo, Marketing Manager at Kemtek.
‘Secondly, become a hybrid professional. Master both print and digital. The future of marketing is in knowing how to weave these two together seamlessly. You’ll stand out if you can speak the language of both offset printers and digital marketers,’ added Mhlongo.
Ilisna O’Reilly, Sales Manager at NUtec Digital Ink, said: ‘Always be a follow-through person, make sure you are keeping yourself relevant, and embrace an ever-evolving industry. Show up every day, and don’t be afraid to voice your valuable opinions. Use the correct social media platforms like LinkedIn to show your ideas, your achievements and successes. Take constructive criticism, and don’t be afraid to learn and to share what you have learnt with others.’
Diamond sponsors of the event: Canon South Africa and Kyocera Document Solutions South Africa. Event partners: Impuls Radio; Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities; Graphix Supply World; Vukani Fashion Creations; South African Fashion Designers Agency and the FP&M SETA.
PRINTING SA
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