In this session, we will host a conversation with platforms, communities, and brands that have become driving forces of change through innovation in Gaming, AI, and the intersection of the two. We will touch on the importance of representation within emerging virtual arenas to ensure diverse audiences are not only reached, but thoughtfully represented.

Over the past few decades, we have seen very little movement in TV and Hollywood to embrace storytelling that depicts the Black experience in a modern context, free from tropes and stereotypes. While there have been breakthroughs and an increased frequency of Black content, are we truly making progress relative to our profound impact on pop and world culture? This panel, moderated by Chief Brand Officer of MACRO, Stacey Walker King, will feature filmmakers Coodie and Chike as they discuss the future of Black storytelling, what defines a Black story, and the steps needed to move beyond the stereotypes that continue to shape Black entertainment.

We all are aware of the incredible legacy of music icon Bob Marley. One of the world’s most well-known musicians, humanitarians, and activists, Bob Marley wasn’t just an artist, he was a unifier of people. In this fireside chat, moderated by Chris Foster, CEO of Omnicom PR Group,  Bob Marley’s son, Rohan Marley, will discuss the unifying power of Black Culture, Black Music, and Black People. It will touch on what inspired the Marley family to commit so much of their expression to the upliftment of humanity through music, and the ongoing development of the Marley brand.

Technology, social media, and the democratization of self-distribution platforms have enabled artists and musicians to be more self-sustained than ever before. What does this mean for the future of artistry, particularity Black music and its influence on other genres and society overall?

The discussion centers on the role of Black leaders in the boardrooms of agency holding companies and their influence on long-term corporate strategies. Black representation is no longer a nice-to-have; it is essential for corporate performance, good governance, and sustainability. We are honored to bring together leading Black Board Directors to discuss how they are driving change in the corporate boardroom.

Let’s be honest—everyone wants to win awards and be recognized for their work. However, the awards culture in advertising carries more weight than simply acknowledging creative excellence. Brands often determine an agency’s value based on its awards history, and top talent is drawn to agencies with prestigious wins, leading to more opportunities for award-worthy projects. But how does this dynamic affect diverse-owned agencies and executives striving to compete on a level playing field, hoping to secure accolades like a Cannes Lion or an Effie? Is the awards industry inherently biased, and does it unintentionally perpetuate inequity? In this panel, Simon Cook, CEO of Cannes Lions, will explore the biases within the awards system and the efforts being made to create more equitable recognition across the industry.

Multicultural marketing. Purpose marketing. Cultural marketing. Inclusive marketing. Social impact marketing. Conscious Marketing. Responsible marketing.

Multicultural audiences. New majority audiences. Minoritized audiences. Marginalized audiences. Underestimated audiences. Historically-excluded audiences.

When the stakes have never been higher for the pursuit of equity in marketing and advertising, what’s in a name is everything.

• Ever wondered why “multicultural” seems to have multiple, interchangeable meanings?
• Ever pondered whether its use perpetuates bias or is helpful in breaking down walls that silo opportunity?

In this interactive debate-style session, we’ll involve the bright minds in our audience to arrive at an actionable framework that can be used beyond this session to maximize the utility of word choice in this critical context. Join to be sure your voice is heard as we answer the question, what should we call it, and more importantly, why?

As some brands shy away from DEI policies – others are leaning further in. Haleon’s Katie Williams – U.S. Chief Marketing Officer – will share how building brands infused with Purpose demands DEI. In this fireside chat, Katie will explore what this means for Haleon’s health and wellness brands, and the role that brands at large can play in identifying and bridging gaps in health outcomes.

Join us for a groundbreaking discussion where we delve into the dynamic, rich, and multifaceted world of Afro-Latino identity within sports and marketing. This conversation aims to illuminate the unique experiences of Afro-Latino athletes, dissect their portrayal in media, and explore innovative marketing strategies that address and challenge cultural stereotypes.

America is diversifying at a rapid pace, and as a result, it’s becoming increasingly harder for brands to communicate authentically to everyone. How can culture, and brand’s command of culture, help build equity with all consumers in a way that is authentic and impactful? In this fireside chat, Alia Kemet, CMO of Shipt, and Dabo Ché, CEO/CCO of CHÉ Creative, will discuss the principles of what it takes to build a culture-first brand, why it’s important, how to activate a brand in culture, and most importantly, how to measure its impact!