Fifteen years of creativity, challenges, fun, hard work and community. From the literal spark of an idea (we used to call our wee websites Sparks) to the admired and proven agency we are today. Kinda feel like some of us have grown up together, and Firebrand is truly fuelled by a shared vision to not only meet requirements but to set the tone for how good business can be done - we don't all need a super yacht or even a range rover.
In 2009, Firebrand was born from a belief that marketing is not about selling products and services but about creating meaningful connections. It’s about understanding and resonating with people - creating lasting relationships. That philosophy has been our guiding star, keeping us innovating, adapting, and always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
To our clients, thank you for trusting us with your brands, your visions, and your challenges. Your faith in us has allowed us to succeed and has pushed us to be better. Together, we’ve launched campaigns that spark conversations, we’ve named products and services that are now household staples, built platforms that build businesses and we’ve strategised in ways that have reshaped industries and created community change.
About the community. Our roots run deep within Ōtepoti Dunedin, and it’s through initiatives like Youth Employment Success, the Dunedin Store and Dunedin Stories that we give back and help foster the next generation of talent and business owners. Firebrand was never going to be just a normal business; we are a part of our community that thrives on mutual support and shared success.
As I stand at this 15-year mark, I reflect on what I personally have achieved and become - embraced my weirdness, sat at tables I feared and spoke up and stood out to inspire and raise up others. I acknowledge our family sacrifice and support - Tayla and Mason, John, Jan and Kerry, Mum and Dad - thank you, and I promise I will continue to work on being better, at balance. I also dream about what’s next with Firebrand's co-owners Paul, Georgina, Alex and Taua. The landscape of this crazy industry is ever-changing, and as disruptors and innovators, we must continue to embrace that change. We will continue to learn, to evolve, and to lead, ensuring that Firebrand remains synonymous with creativity and quality not forgetting a bit of fun.
Let's celebrate not just the successes of the past but the possibilities of the future. Here’s to another 15 years of making marks, inspiring change, and doing good—most days.
Here’s to continuing the journey together, with passion and purpose!
– Bex Twemlow, Founding Director.