Twenty years of stories, strategy, creative design, web development and impact … what a ride it’s been for Flow Communications. In that time, Flow has grown from a small two-person team into an award-winning agency trusted by clients across the globe.
When reflecting on this journey and looking ahead to the next 20 years at a recent morning meeting, we were asked to share what Flow means to us, but with a twist. We were split into small online groups and invited to hop onto our favourite AI tool to craft a birthday message … from the quirkiest setting possible.
And that’s how we got Dr Seuss-inspired rhymes and intergalactic scripts from the future.
After a few minutes of brainstorming and prompting, each group returned to the main meeting to present their creations. Think slam poetry meets a toastmaster speech competition!
Kicking things off was a poem in Dr Seuss-inspired rhyme that was playful and energetic with a catchy rhythm. It was recited by yours truly, writer Tumelo Buthelezi (you know, to show everyone how it’s done). Favourite quote: “Twenty whole years, what a wonderful treat. From a horn came a sound so groovy and grand, a musical flow the best in the land. So a hip hip hooray and a rat-a-tat-tat, happy 20th birthday, how about that.”
Another team took us to the future – to the year 3025, broadcasting from Atlantis. Their celebratory and uplifting message was delivered by content studio head Edwina van der Burg. Favourite quote: “Even 1 000m below sea level, we’re celebrating a milestone that transcends time and tides. Flow has helped brands find their voice, tell their story and connect with people in meaningful ways.”
We were then “submerged” (again) in creativity when the next team took us to the depths of the sea with a poem crafted from the inside of a submarine. The captain of this odyssey, Flow project manager Riefkah Adams, delivered the message: “Flow Communications is about to celebrate another trip around the sun. And from where I’m floating, the view just keeps getting better. Each year, I watch as this incredible crew dives headfirst into big ideas, meaningful work and partnerships that go the distance.”
And then there was this delightful message, as if penned on fine paper with a quill dipped in premium ink, recited by writer Thelma Ngoma-Mavhunga: “The world’s leading agency touching the sky. Your heart beats for Earth, for a hunger-free land. A vision so grand, held firm in your hand. Quantum whispers now dance a swift, silent hum. No bounds to your dreams, for the future has come.”
There was another message from the future, this time a status update posted by senior writer/editor Willem Steenkamp: “It’s 11 June 2035 and I can hardly wait to take up my post as a social media specialist at Flow as soon as I’m out of my growth pod.”
The last team to deliver a message imagined an older and wiser Flow persona writing to the Flow of today, a reverse time capsule of sorts. The message was delivered by head of PR Caroline Smith: “I remember the day you were born, just an idea really, a spark, a belief that independent, values-driven, quality-first communications could build something lasting. You had no office, no staff, just the determination to do great work. Look at you now. You’re a fully fledged agency, trusted across the continent.”
Great stuff! Here’s to another 20 years (and more).