There is no doubt that brands must embrace social media…but the fast-changing landscape means that many companies remain confused about exactly why they are on social sites.

Part of the problem for brands is that paid-for advertising – their traditional comfort zone when it comes to marketing – is not necessarily the best way to communicate in a social space. Instead, it is about being able to create content which users will discuss, share and recommend.

When Sir Martin Sorrell, boss of advertising giant WPP, spoke at Enders Analysis’ recent conference, he made the point that Facebook and Twitter are about “building brands through editorial” as opposed to being chiefly or solely about advertising.

However, as Simon Mansell, chief executive of social agency TBG Digital says: “One of the challenges is creating good content. Most brands are not used to being journalists or publishers. Brands are not publishers.”

Read full story here: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/markets/article-24037541-social-media-is-still-minefield-for-brands.do

Raj Kapoor in ‘My Name is Joker’ (Photo: BFI Southbank)

Eight 35mm films, including some black-and-white classics are being screened at the British Film Institute (BFI) at the Southbank as a tribute to one of Bollywood’s greatest actor-directors – Raj Kapoor.

These include classics such as Bobby, Boot Polish, My Name is Joker, Shree 420 and The Vagabond.

For those of you who have missed out on any of these evergreen films, spend an evening at the BFI, enjoying some of the finest that The Golden Age of Indian Cinema has to offer.

21-29 February 2012 at BFI Southbank. More information here: http://www.bfi.org.uk/whatson/bfi_southbank/film_programme/february_seasons/raj_kapoor

We were pleasantly surprised to receive these goodies in the post today. Thank you B4U for showing us your love!

We look forward to exchanging ideas on multiculturalism and diversity and sharing how our agency works with lots of enthusiastic grad students who are around!

“They (agencies) realise their creative departments have more to offer clients than the execution of a standard brief. From writing books and plays, to creating theatrical experiences, to putting an entire event package…agencies are building brands through new forms of content and different entertainment channels.

“What few agencies have so far cracked is how to create entertainment content they own themselves. Agencies like Mother are learning the tricks of a whole new trade.”

Judith Craig & Afrikah-Amaya, Haiti, 2011 © Dennis Morris. Courtesy The Photographers’ Gallery, London

Do you know of anyone who was born in one of the following countries, but now lives in London, and would like to be a sitter for ‘The World in London’, a photo project for 2012?

Africa: Central African Republic, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau
Caribbean: Virgin Islands (US)
Europe: Andorra, San Marino
Oceania: American Samoa, FS Micronesia, Guam, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau
Middle East: Kuwait

Contact The Photographers’ Gallery through this link: http://www.photonet.org.uk/index.php?pid=575

(Photo credit: timeout.com)

Make sure you usher in the Year of the Dragon with a colourful and vibrant day at Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue.

On 29 January 2012, from 10am-6pm. For more information, click here: http://www.timeout.com/london/around-town/event/228628/chinese-new-year-2012

This exhibition explores the culture of Bali and in particular, the way moral values and a respect for the environment are passed from one generation to the next through the stories and dance of Balinese Hinduism. 

Last few weeks left to explore Balinese culture and dance featuring captivating film and photography from the 1930s, beautiful costumes and spectacular artifacts.

Until 08 January 2012, 10.30am – 5.30pm at Horniman Museum. More information here: http://www.horniman.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/exhibition/bali-dancing-for-the-gods/exhibition-chapter/bali-dancing-for-the-gods

“A multicultural society is possibly our safest bet against the ills of dictatorial regimes and wars perpetrated by ethnicity and religion. And a truly multicultural society should evolve its communication at all levels including advertising to break away monotheism of all kinds – commercial, social or political. The ability to do so is a gift to the society.”

(Photo credit: Alamy, The Guardian)

The Phoenix inter-community initiative, a group of bloggers, activists and community representatives, have come together to try to demonstrate support and respect for Christmas among different faiths.

Read full story here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/dec/24/christianity-religion