PICTURE: X / @TheNduna
Advertising executive Veli Ngubane has stepped down as co-Chief Creative Officer (co-CCO) of Avatar Agency following backlash over a viral video filmed during the 73rd Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France.
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Veli Ngubane steps down
The video, which has circulated widely on social media, appears to show a seemingly intoxicated Veli making inappropriate remarks while interacting with two women, including rating their appearances “out of 10.”
The clip sparked widespread criticism online, prompting Avatar to announce his resignation.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela first shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that Veli had resigned from his leadership role at the agency. The footage quickly gained traction on social media, with many users criticising Veli’s conduct and calling for accountability.
@cocobasseyno woman should ever be put a situation like this, esp at work 😐♬ original sound – coco bassey 💋
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Avatar distances itself
In a statement shared following the incident, Avatar confirmed Veli’s departure and made it clear that the agency does not condone the behaviour shown in the video.
The agency stated: “We hold our people to the highest standards of professional conduct.”
Avatar said Veli had stepped down from his role, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining professional and ethical standards within the company.
BRANDS:
Veli Ngubane Steps Down
Following an inappropriate incident in France, where he attended the 73 Cannnes Lion International Festival of Creativity, Ngubane has stepped down from his role as co-Chief Creative Office at Avatar ad agency.
A video is doing the rounds… pic.twitter.com/vyrBSs4r1B
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) July 23, 2026
Social media reacts
The incident has sparked widespread discussion online, with many users applauding Avatar for acting swiftly.
Some argued that senior leaders should be held to a higher standard, particularly when representing their organisations at international events.
Others expressed disappointment, saying the controversy overshadowed South Africa’s presence at one of the advertising industry’s biggest global gatherings.
A cautionary moment
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious events celebrating excellence in advertising, marketing and creative communications.
Veli’s resignation has become one of the festival’s most talked-about South African stories, serving as a reminder of the scrutiny public figures and business leaders face both online and offline.
Neither Veli nor Avatar had provided further comment beyond confirming his resignation at the time of publication.
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