FROM SIDE-HUSTLE TO POWERHOUSE: DENTSU SCHOOL OF INFLUENCE OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR YOUTH MONTH CREATOR ACCELERATOR -

Dentsu School of Influence, in partnership with CSA. global, opens applications for One Big Week in Johannesburg, a Youth Month programme designed to help emerging creators turn content into sustainable careers.

Dentsu South Africa, in partnership with CSA, a culture-led business, has opened applications for the third year of the Dentsu School of Influence. Originally established by Dentsu and now entering its next chapter, the 2026 Youth Month programme moves away from its previous structure to debut a high-impact, accelerated format designed to help emerging creators turn creativity into sustainable careers.

At the heart of the programme is One Big Week, an intensive accelerator in Johannesburg where selected creators will take part in live briefs, mentorship and commercial training in a real creative environment.

As South Africa’s creator economy continues to evolve, the programme is designed to help bridge the gap between creative talent, commercial readiness and long-term opportunity. Rather than treating influence as a short-term moment, the Dentsu School of Influence is built to help creators think more intentionally about the business behind their work.

Developed with CSA, the initiative reflects a growing need for creators to understand not just how to make content, but how to build businesses around their creativity. From brand strategy and audience development to commercial readiness, the programme is designed to help creators level up with greater clarity, confidence and long-term ambition.

Applications are now open for the 2026 intake. Aspiring creators are invited to submit a 60-second video introducing themselves, sharing their creative vision and explaining why they are ready to take the next step in their journey.

One Big Week will take place in Johannesburg from 8 to 12 June 2026, during Youth Month. The next instalment of the programme is set to take place in Cape Town later in the year.

How To Apply:

Post a 60-second video on your platform sharing your story and creative vision.
Tag @dentsu_sa and @csa.global
Entry deadline: 8 May 2026
Entry details: Are You the Next Big Creator?
Check out our website for more information: https://www.dentsu.com/za/en/events/dentsu-school-of-influence