Overview
The AAF Columbus hosted a pivotal panel discussion entitled “The Color of Marketing” aimed at addressing diversity disparities within the marketing and media sectors. This event brought together industry leaders and academics to explore challenges and solutions related to inclusivity in the workplace.
Objectives
- To raise awareness of diversity disparities in the marketing and media industries.
- To foster an open dialogue about practical solutions for increasing diversity and inclusion.
- To challenge attendants to create action plans for increasing diverse perspectives among their teams and creative work.
Event Details
- Date: May 9, 2024
- Location: Dawson Theater, Columbus, OH
Panelists:
- Molly Moses, Sr. Talent Marketing Manager, JobsOhio
- Valerie Thompson, President, AAF Toledo
- Dr. Osei Appiah, Communications Professor, The Ohio State University
- Harvey Austin, SVP of Content Production, BoldSky Creative Studio
- Moderator: Drew Collins, Owner and Creative Director, bond creative + branding
Panel Discussion Highlights
Diversity Disparities:
Panelists shared insights on the current state of diversity in marketing and media, highlighting statistics and personal experiences that underscore the disparities present in the industry.
Solutions and Strategies:
The conversation centered around actionable strategies for organizations to implement, such as:
- Developing mentorship programs for underrepresented groups.
- Reevaluating hiring practices to ensure inclusivity.
- Increasing community engagement through outreach and partnerships with diverse organizations.
Interactive Q&A:
Following the discussion, the audience participated in a lively Q&A session, providing an opportunity for attendees to share their perspectives and pose questions to the panelists.
This interaction allowed for the exchange of ideas on practical approaches to promote diversity within teams and communities.
Outcomes
Engagement and Awareness: The event successfully raised awareness about the critical need for diversity in the marketing and media sectors. The diverse audience contributed various viewpoints, enriching the conversation.
Actionable Insights: Attendees left with practical strategies they could implement within their organizations, fostering a commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion.
Community Building: The panel reinforced AAF Columbus’s role as a leader in advocating for diversity, helping to build a community focused on collaboration and support for underrepresented voices in the industry.
Feedback
Attendees found the panel informative and inspiring. Many expressed a desire for ongoing discussions and workshops focused on implementing the strategies discussed.
Conclusion
The AAF Columbus panel on diversity disparities represented a significant step towards addressing inclusivity in the marketing and media industry. By facilitating dialogue among industry leaders and community members, AAF Columbus is actively contributing to a more equitable future for the field. This case study serves as a model for similar initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and promoting actionable change within professional settings.