The Media Sector Action Team is gaining momentum as part of the Forward Durban movement, setting a clear and strategic path to change the way Durban is seen—by its people and the world. In its latest session, the team outlined a comprehensive content and media strategy designed to uplift business confidence and showcase Durban’s many positive stories.
At the heart of the media plan is a proposed 80/20 content split: 80% business and economic confidence news, 20% community upliftment stories. This balance aims to reflect the resilience, innovation, and collaboration across the city while also celebrating the human spirit that powers progress.
Plans are in motion to collaborate with local radio stations, including Gagasi FM, to introduce a “Good News After the News” segment—offering a breath of positivity following hard news reports. The team is also actively sourcing content from credible local sources and ensuring credit is given to original creators as stories are shared across platforms.
The upcoming Change the Narrative Conference on 3 June 2025 will mark a major milestone for the Media team:
- Launch of the Forward Durban brand video, featuring a splash screen thanking Caxton for their creative contributions.
- Social media competition and live lucky draw for a Suncoast Experience voucher, to encourage new followers.
- Wall and pull-up banners, bathroom posters with QR codes, and a showcase of all Sector Action Team contributors to visually represent collaboration.
- A live recap of progress since the last conference with summaries from each Sector Action Team.
Content creation and collection are ongoing, with the media team encouraging all SAT Leaders to submit updates and highlights from their sectors. A central content repository and dedicated email (media@forwarddurban.com) have been set up to support this process. Weekly reminders, content strategy notes, and social media vetting processes have been put in place to maintain consistency and impact.
The team has also rolled out official social media accounts across LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and X (Twitter), with content creation support from a new intern who will assist with live updates, visual content, and blog contributions.
A full website launch is planned for the Change the Narrative event, including:
- Newsletter sign-up integration
- Contributor logo gallery
- Regular blog and news content
The Media Sector Action Team will meet again on 26 June 2025 to reflect on post-launch feedback and continue building momentum. As the digital and storytelling engine behind Forward Durban, this team is essential in shifting perceptions, inspiring pride, and driving engagement across the city.
Stay tuned—and keep sharing the good news.
#ForwardDurban #ChangingTheNarrative #DurbanMedia #CityBranding #SMMEs #PositiveNews
