Since the appointment of vlogger Thulasizwe “LaSizwe” Dambuza as Fanta teen marketing director, the young star has embarked on various projects with the soft drinks brand and one of them, Fanta Squad, was launched at Hyde Park Corner’s Nu Metro this week.
Fanta Squad is an online reality show in which four squad members are tasked with various challenges that assist them in overcoming their fears. The all teen squad includes three other movers and shakers, namely skit comedian Siyabulela “TaFire” Deli, youth programme presenter Katlego “Kat” Ncala and online adventure vlogger Matthew Menton.
The colour co-ordination for the venue was orange, making it easy for guests to know that this was the place where it was happening.
With our feet up in the cinema, popcorn and soda in hand, the four featured personalities took us through their experiences while we previewed the first of the 13-week-long online series that is now available on YouTube.
After that we were escorted to the orange room for refreshments and mingling. I caught up with LaSizwe (19) to gauge how this new project makes him feel, and all he could say was that he was excited and nervous.
“A lot of work has been put into this and I am just excited to see it roll out,” said the director.
Transforming a cinema space into a hangout spot proved easy as we were later moved to another room that resembled a vibrant teen’s party, matching the brand’s newest image and target audience.
With good music, orange beanbags and couches and food galore, guests mingled with the stars and chilled. Outside, another chill spot was created for a more intimate interaction and a photo area for selfie lovers. Some of the celebs who came out in support of the young star were Ntando Duma, rapper Priddy Ugly, actor Oros Mampofu and actress Nunu Khumalo.
The do was hosted by TV anchor Smash Afrika. It is obvious that the teens, dubbed as ama’ 2000, were ready to take over the industry. The question now is whether the industry is ready for them.
@AmandaMaliba