A Dose of Black Joy and Caffeine

Tiffany Edwards, EVP at Publicis, joins Neisha Tweed Bell to share her personal journey as a caregiver navigating the complexities of leadership, grief, and healing. Tiffany opens up about finding balance between career and caregiving for multiple family members, redefining strength, and building a life grounded in joy and peace. This episode is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of community.

Kiersten Saunders, co-creator of Rich & Regular, joins host Neisha Tweed Bell for a candid conversation about rewriting societal rules to create a life of agency and fulfillment. From navigating ADHD and corporate exits to rethinking traditions and building generational wealth, Kiersten shares insightful, practical wisdom about breaking free from traditional expectations and finding peace through liberation and joy.

Shanteka Sigers joins Neisha Tweed Bell to unpack the parallels between creative leadership and parenting. From treating motherhood as brand management to redefining feedback as a gift, Shanteka offers candid insights on instilling values, embracing imperfection, and using creativity to connect and inspire. This conversation celebrates storytelling, growth, and the power of parenting with purpose.

Khara Wagner, CEO of Anomaly LA, sits down with Neisha Tweed Bell to discuss building intentional spaces for connection and creativity at home and work. From balancing career progression with motherhood to navigating conversations about race and identity with her children, Khara provides heartfelt and practical insights on leading with purpose and progress, not perfection.

Entrepreneur Ronnie Dickerson Stewart joins host Neisha Tweed Bell for an intimate conversation about motherhood, careers, and redefining success. From treating family life like a business campaign to learning when to "detach with love," Ronnie shares honest insights about protecting your energy, leveraging different forms of currency, and finding peace amid the beautiful chaos of working motherhood.

President of Droga5 NY, Chioma Aduba, joins host Neisha Tweed Bell to explore what it means to redefine leadership through motherhood. From interviewing while visibly pregnant to breaking cultural expectations, Chioma's journey highlights the power of authenticity, gratitude, and creating conditions for others to thrive. This episode is a testament to owning your story and leading with purpose.

Vernā is a DEI pioneer. She is a highly sought-after DEI Keynote Speaker and DEI Consultant. She's well-known for captivating  audiences with her high-energy keynotes, profound insights, and ability to foster authentic connections and meaningful dialogue.  With nearly three decades of experience, her work as an inclusion strategist, cultural innovator, thought leader, and social  commentator has guided myriad organizations across the world in dismantling barriers to inclusion and equity across race, ethnicity,  gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, religion, and other differences. Her expertise and experience - personal and  professional - have been instrumental in guiding workplaces toward embracing and integrating diversity, inclusion, equity, and  belonging in all facets of workplace operations.   Hailing from Baltimore's working class, Vernā's journey saw her rise to prominence as a distinguished alumna of Barnard College,  Columbia University, and Harvard Law School, founder of The Vernā Myers Company, and the inaugural head of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix, where she led a global team in curating and implementing strategies to integrate cultural diversity, inclusion, and equity  into all aspects of the company's operations.  An accomplished author, Vernā's two best-selling books, “Moving Diversity Forward: Going from Well-Meaning to Well-Doing” and  “What If I Say The Wrong Thing? 25 Habits for Culturally Effective People” have garnered widespread acclaim. Her inspiring TED talk,  “How to Overcome Our Biases? Walk Boldly Towards Them,” has amassed over 5 million views and has been translated into 27  languages. Collaborating with Ariana Huffington and Thrive Global, Vernā's micro-course, “Confronting Biases,” has been taken by  nearly a million learners worldwide and is consistently recognized as one of the top ten LinkedIn Learning courses. Vernā is also the  host and producer of the podcast Sundays with Verna, which is available on Apple iTunes and Spotify.  Vernā's trademarked quote: “Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance” ® encapsulates her enduring  commitment to fostering inclusive environments. The statement has been quoted countless times by DEI professionals and everyday  individuals from various industries and all over the world.   Vernā's company, TVMC, provides its own brand of DEI online training courses through www.tvmcu.com. The courses, featuring  Verna herself, include the energy and no shame, blame, or attack approach she brings when delivering her keynotes and workshops.  Among her many accolades, Vernā's impact has been recognized by numerous institutions, including the California Association of  Black Lawyers, the Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles Foundation, CODE Crew recognized her DEI Person of the Year (2021), and Diversity Woman named her one of the Top 100 Black Women Executives. Vernā was elected as a Fellow of the College  of Law Practice Management, serves as a Board Member of UC Hastings College of Law's Work Life Law program, and received the  Diversity Champion award from Pepper Hamilton LLP. She has been honored as one of the “25 Influential Black Women in Business”  by The Network Journal and celebrated as a “Diversity Hero” by The Massachusetts Lawyer's Weekly. Earlier in her career, Vernā  held pivotal roles, such as the first Executive Director of The Boston Law Firm Group and Deputy Chief of Staff for the Attorney  General of Massachusetts. She also practiced corporate and real estate law for six years at Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault LLP and Fitch,  Wiley, Richlin & Tourse LLP.  

Launching his career as assistant to the Jonas Brothers, Benoni Tagoe quickly became a part of the band's day-to-day management team and through that experience developed a keen sense of entrepreneurship. Since then, Tagoe has produced content for both TV and New Media on platforms that have collectively garnered over 20 million views. In a dual role, Tagoe was the Head of Business Development for Issa Rae Productions, which became HOORAE (The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl and HBO's ‘Insecure')and President of Raedio (Issa Rae's music initiative).  Throughout his career Benoni has closed multiple joint venture record deals (Atlantic Records & Def Jam), podcast overall deals (Audible and Stitcher) and acted as a liaison between talent and securing funding for the next step of their careers.  Additionally, Benoni has been profiled as a “Modern Man” in Black Enterprise magazine for his work with his management & consulting company, The Bizz Plan, which has worked with various media brands, including Uninterrupted (LeBron James' sports platform).

Shabazz Larkin is a figurative artist, poet, sculptor, book-maker and an ambassador for mindfulness meditation.  Larkin, from Norfolk Virginia, works from his studio in Nashville, TN, creating figures, portraits, and monuments that celebrate Black culture. His overwhelming use of color and bold typography thinly veils his true intention to explore issues of justice, history, spirituality, and the power of Black joy. Larkin is the founder of The Museum of Presence, an institution without walls, taking the form of a newspaper and podcast led by a cohort of BIPoC artists, curators, and mindfulness professionals, working to spotlight the creative community of Nashville and the greater American South, with mindfulness and creativity at the heart. Shabazz has a long list of private collaborators, from his former 20-year career in the commercial creative industry from organizations like the Obama Foundation, Google, and Sony to moguls like Bill Gates, Maya Angelou, and a long list of other kings, presidents, and global brands. Shabazz has won every award in the business from the One Show Pencil to the Cannes Lion. In 2020 however, Shabazz left the commercial ad industry to follow a passion to make meditation and mindfulness teachings accessible to BIPoC communities. Shabazz now serves as the head of content for a Mindfulness app, called True Voice, designed from the ground up with Black and brown people in mind. (truevoiceapp.com) He is also the author of several books that grapple with food or mindfulness, his latest is “The Thing About Bees: A Love Letter to My Sons” a book about fear, love, and the fragility of our food system. He is the founder of Larkin Art & Company, an art gallery, and proprietor of artifacts, experiences, and books rooted in African American culture and identity. (www.larkinart.co) 

Kiser Barnes is a visionary creative leader and experience maven who operates at the intersection of design, culture, and innovation. As Chief Creative Officer and Partner at Red Antler, he is known for designing fantastic futures for brands by seamlessly connecting emerging ideas with transformative experiences.From disruptive startups to Fortune 100 giants, Kiser has been instrumental in shaping some of the world's most iconic companies across a wide range of industries. He brings a holistic, forward-thinking approach to brand building, with a portfolio that spans brand design, advertising, apps, e-commerce, retail, experiential activations, gaming design, and packaging.Recently, Kiser spearheaded Walmart's groundbreaking entry into the metaverse with Walmart Land and led the acclaimed Delta Wonder Window experience at CES. His innovative work has earned him a Cannes Lions Grand Prix, and he was recognized as a 2023 Web3 Marketing Trailblazer by Ad Age, celebrating his role as a creative pioneer in emerging technology.Before joining Red Antler, Kiser served as Head of Design and Innovation at Digitas/Publicis Groupe, where he guided a diverse array of clients, including LVMH, Google, Delta Air Lines, Crocs, Visa, Four Seasons, Calvin Klein, Lincoln Motor Co., and many more.

Kettelie Dubuisson is an accomplished experiential creative director with a passion for crafting immersive brand experiences. With 13 years of experience in the creative + design industry, she specializes in translating brand narratives into captivating live events, interactive installations, and multi-sensory campaigns.Known for her innovative approach and strategic mindset, Kettelie has successfully executed and led cross-functional teams in delivering impactful designs + experiences for a diverse range of clients spanning industries such as tech, music, media and entertainment.

Robert Williams has 18 years of experience in retail, with a passion for people leadership at the heart of everything he does. Currently, he serves as a District Manager for Starbucks Coffee Company, where he was promoted to District Manager Trainer within his first year. Throughout his career, Robert has co-created the Happy to Help theme for Sam's Club and Walmart and pioneered the HBCU Retail Leadership Challenge for Target. He's also known for opening new stores and launching company pilots for major retailers, including Sam's Club, Target, BJ's Wholesale Club, and Starbucks.One of his proudest accomplishments is helping over 30 friends, family members, and mentees get promoted, using his ability to authentically connect with the leaders he serves and provide tangible value quickly.On a personal note, Robert made the best decision of his life on August 21, 2021, when he got down on one knee and asked Tiesha to marry him. Now, over two years into marriage, they're building a beautiful life together. They love traveling, especially to Grand Paraiso near Cancun, and enjoy working out at Orange Theory. While both are great in the kitchen, Tiesha holds the title of kitchen master.Robert is also passionate about memorializing his ideas through his collection of books under the title Raw Guidance. His first book, TITO: Turning Interviews to Offers, is expected to be wrapped up by the end of the year and serves as a comprehensive guide to acing interviews. His second book, Keeping Her Excited, focuses on nurturing and strengthening relationships through acts of service.A fan of being read to, Robert's top recommendations include The Gap and The Gain, Black Privilege, and The Power of Vulnerability. At the end of the day, Robert's legacy is about helping others succeed, making his nieces and nephews proud to call him “Unc,” and hearing his wife Tiesha say, “I'm so proud of you” with her beautiful smile.

Jeffrey L. Bowman is the CEO and founder of Reframe AI Technologies and Reframe Consulting Services.  He is an inventor, pioneer of a change operating system and inclusive experience design approach that helps leaders accelerate and operationalize inclusive change and growth at scale. Bowman is a two-time award-winning Wiley published author and Campaign US 40 Over 40. A former senior partner and managing director at Ogilvy & Mather in New York City, one of the world's largest advertising and communications agencies. It was there Bowman pioneered the industry's first cultural practice that modernized the marketing and communications industry. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Campaign, The Economist, Fast Company, NBC (Today Show), Fortune to name a few and he speaks frequently at industry and trade events across the United States, Europe, and South America.

"Omar Cherie, I'm a conceptual copywriter based in Brooklyn with a desire to travel the world. I recently got laid off and decided to lean into what I know best: my creativity. So, I started the "Hire Me Experiment," an exercise of extreme transparency. I am attempting to get hired in the AD industry with 0 connections. This is a real-time journey to working with big brands and AD agencies or becoming one of my own."

Alexis Toney brings a decade of experience in marketing, with a diverse background that includes roles at various ad agencies and on brand marketing teams. Her expertise lies in strategy, media, and analytics, with a strong focus on e-commerce and driving brand profitability. In 2020, Alexis launched Background Noise, a BIPOC and female-led marketing and business consulting agency. She later restructured the company with two co-founders, leading to rapid growth and the acquisition of notable clients like Cécred by Beyoncé and Taco Bell.

Jeremy K. Smith is a seasoned marketing strategist and the SVP of New Business at Unsurfaced™, a Chicago-based creative agency. Since beginning his career in 2011, Jeremy has shaped the trajectory of major brands and pioneered innovative projects. His career highlights include collaborating with celebrities like Nicki Minaj, Joe Budden, and Halsey, as well as spearheading digital strategy for Fenty Skin by Rihanna, where he forged groundbreaking partnerships with platforms like Roblox.  Jeremy worked at P&G as Senior Digital Communications Manager. During his tenure, he led the redesign of PG.com. He also played a key role in rebranding P&G's corporate visual identity and developed the digital strategy for the Emmy Award-winning campaign #TheTalk.  At Unsurfaced™, Jeremy works alongside a talented team of creatives who are more than just colleagues—they are his friends and family. Together, they cultivate a safe space where they support each other, sharing skills and talents in humanistic ways that are often uncommon for Black men to encounter in corporate America or total market agencies. This unique environment allows them to produce work that is not only impactful but also deeply personal.  Since Jeremy joined Unsurfaced™, the agency has made significant strides, most notably in its partnership with BEVEL. Unsurfaced™ has reignited BEVEL's brand presence through strategic social media marketing, experiential marketing, and influencer management. These efforts have  focused on elevating Black and Brown creators, who are commonly marginalized due to their socio-economic background, further solidifying BEVEL's leadership in the market.  Recently, Unsurfaced™ gained recognition for its award-winning video "Change 1961" for Eastside Golf, earning a Silver Medal at the 2024 Anthem Awards. Jeremy's dedication to innovative storytelling and his commitment to creating meaningful, culturally relevant work continue to set him apart in the industry. Jeremy's journey is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of "what's next" in marketing. His work reflects an unwavering dedication to breaking boundaries and delivering results that resonate on both a professional and human level.

As the CEO and Co-Founder of The Creative Ladder, I am dedicated to catalyzing an inclusive future for creatives. Our ethos at The Creative Ladder revolves around empowerment and accessibility, with a mission to forge new pathways for underrepresented talents to thrive. With a background in design and creative strategy, my role involves creating impactful connections and nurturing a platform where diversity and belonging are not just encouraged, but celebrated.My passion lies in building community, fostering progression, inspiring action, and supporting self-love through timeless and memorable apparel, design, and experiences.In addition to my role at The Creative Ladder, I am the founder of District of Clothing, an online retail shop and community for change-makers who are driving positive change, and D.d Design, a creative services boutique.

Nancy Douyon is a trailblazing tech executive, global design ethicist, and the visionary founder of Incluversal, a groundbreaking platform designed to accelerate career growth through the power of AI and inclusive design. With over two decades of experience shaping user experiences at tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Uber, Nancy brings a unique blend of AI expertise and human-centered design to career development. Her work has been featured in case studies at Carnegie Mellon and Stanford, cementing her status as a thought leader in the intersection of technology and career advancement. Learn more about Nancy here: https://www.instagram.com/therealnancydouyon/ https://linkin.bio/therealnancydouyon/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa-fWg0AF-p2hLkf-yQsjShStt2ArDxknPSda8fcc5Vl8EI1-9sooywCLs_aem_oNMR1ImtNpRt8No1Hn8E7g

As a life-long student of his craft, Trevor Wentt is a multidisciplinary savant of the visual arts, creative visionary, and endless dreamer of possibilities, composing stories through film, photography and prose. With degrees in Photography, Biblical & Intercultural studies, a Master of Art in Christian Ministries, and over a decade of experience in photography and filmmaking, he is uniquely positioned to embody a people centered approach in telling the stories that must be told in a way that strikes your innermost being. When the cameras are put away, you might find him cruising down the street on his longboard, thrifting in your city, tearing up over his favorite anime, or handing out L's in Super Smash Bros.

Fred Sands IV is a visual artist and art director whose personal work is rooted in nostalgia and culture, he has made it his primary objective to create work that feels both innovative and familiar. With 14 cumulative years of experience working as both a freelance artist and graphic designer within the production/media industry, and clients including Netflix, Puma, Essence Magazine, Spotify, Livenation and more, Fred pushes boundaries through digital and creative storytelling. Sands continually strives to align himself with brands and projects who aim to establish a revolutionary voice through design.

One of the most sought-after minds in strategic communications, Rakia Reynolds, is a thought leader, tastemaker, branding expert, and advisor and amplifier of people, products, and places at the award-winning strategic communications agency, Skai Blue Media. Her guiding principles as an adept storyteller with a bullish approach to equitable communications, her proven ability to navigate the ever-increasing complex cultural and social media landscapes, along with her dedication to building brands in both Web2 and Web3, are only some of the reasons Rakia has successfully created her own distinct brand of authenticity and expertise for over 15 years. Rakia has been named by Inc. Magazine as one of the 27 Business Leaders Aiming to Change the World, was listed as one of the 25 Most Socially Influential Tastemakers on Dell's “Inspire 100” list, and recently was also profiled by Forbes on their “Next 1000” list.  Rakia serves as Founder and Executive Officer of Skai Blue Media (SBM), a non-traditional communications agency that proudly hosts an eclectic group of storytellers, brand experts, and strategists. Rakia continues to be a key influencer in the creative business industry as she works with her team to launch, brand, re-brand, and revitalize lifestyle, technology, non-profit and entrepreneurial clients. This list includes Airbnb, Nasdaq, Comcast/Xfinity, Dell, Serena Williams, Morgan Stanley, Jill Scott, and more. Rakia's portfolio includes #FanofYourBrand(tactical business tools), clothing brand EVRYDAY Jane, and an ethical intelligence platform launching in 2023.  As a thought leader and proven authority in marketing, creative strategy, and business development Rakia regularly contributes her expertise to the pages of Forbes, Inc.com, HuffPost, Fast Company, and more. Onstage, she captivates audiences across many industries as her talks span branding, media, multicultural business, economic development, and the entrepreneurial journey, all of which are more than relevant to the recent challenging and changing times. Rakia is recognized for her innovative approach and commitment to authenticity and has spoken at TEDx, SXSW, Inbound, and others. More than a keynote speaker, Rakia is often called upon to moderate panel discussions due to her in-depth knowledge of an extensive range of topics affecting the business community.

Alex Lewis is a senior social media strategist with ten years of experience driving audience growth and online engagement for brands such as Hollister at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. and Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams. Alex is also a freelance music writer for Columbus Underground and an essayist based in Columbus, Ohio. For his Substack newsletter, Feels Like Home, Alex writes to an audience of over 900 subscribers about things he loves & the people and moments that have shaped him.

Mamou Kilambi-Mbakwe is a seasoned professional with over a decade's experience in the social media landscape. Joining Media.Monks in 2017, her influence has been pivotal in shaping social strategies and campaigns. Previously, between 2017 and 2019, she contributed to Google Fiber and the Google Social Lab, gaining insights before joining the internal marketing team.As the Global Social Lead, Mamou ensures that the M.M social channels strike the perfect balance between being informative and entertaining. She leans into social trends, spotlighting Monk talent whenever possible, and drives engagement with a keen eye for what resonates with their audience. Her efforts in community management, social monitoring, and demand generation showcase her dedication to driving social strategy and performance. Additionally, she plays a critical role in operational improvement, aiding Media.Monks in reaching greater heights.

As a Global Social Media Lead at Amazon, Trevor McNeal is responsible for developing and overseeing the social marketing strategy for podcasts on Amazon Music. He is also the creator and executive producer of Bars and Nuggets, an Amazon podcast series which has attracted guests such as J Balvin, Offset, The Game and other personalities across the entertainment and sports industries.Over the course of his career, McNeal has developed marketing and content strategies for companies such as HBO, the NBA, UNINTERRUPTED, and more.The New York-native is a proud alumnus of Montclair State University and father of two . McNeal is also a founding judge of the Signal Awards and has previously appeared as a guest lecturer to students at NYU and Syracuse.

Octavia Warren, also known as the Millennial CEO, is the founder and CEO of Creative Juice, a multicultural branding and marketing agency, she started back in 2013. Creative Juice has always been at the forefront of multicultural branding and marketing, working with clients like The Home Depot, The City of Atlanta, Emory University, Microsoft, Equifax, Cox, and MARTA to name a few. She realized there was an untapped potential in specifically addressing the needs of Black audiences and entrepreneurs. Chroma Creators™ was born from this insight to bridge the gap between brands and the dynamic, multigenerational Black community. Octavia holds a BFA from SCAD Atlanta, from which she received the 2018 Emerging Alumna award. She is also a 2017 Power 30 Under 30 award recipient, is a member of EO Atlanta and a Goldman Sachs 10KSB alumni. In her spare time, she serves as a mentor for the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women program.

Jeremy is an experienced marketing and creator success professional with a passion for uplifting diverse voices. Currently, Jeremy serves as a Senior Creator Community Manager at CapCut, focusing on the growth and development of the template creator community. With support from the Emma Bowen and T. Howard foundations, he embarked on his career in the entertainment industry at companies like Viacom, Univision, FOX Sports, and HBO, where he honed his skills in digital and experiential marketing. Jeremy's curiosity about the creator economy led him to pivot to a career in creator management within the tech industry, contributing to the success of creators at YouTube, LinkedIn, and now CapCut. Throughout his journey, Jeremy has remained a huge advocate for uplifting diverse voices and creators, exemplified by his support for initiatives like YouTube Black Voices and CultureCon sponsorships during his tenure at HBO and LinkedIn.

Ayeshia Toy is a dynamic HR leader with almost 20 years of experience, driving organizational success through a holistic focus on employee well-being and mental health. Throughout her career, she has collaborated closely with executives across diverse industries including advertising, hospitality, government, and tech, delivering strategic executive coaching, fostering talent engagement, and providing comprehensive human resources support.  Specializing in prioritizing mental health and well-being in the workplace, Ayeshia is dedicated to implementing initiatives that promote a healthy and supportive environment for all employees. Her expertise spans HR operations management, including immigration sponsorship, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as change management and leadership coaching.  Ayeshia's impactful leadership extends beyond the workplace as she actively contributes to community initiatives. She has served on the board of E4 Youth, an organization dedicated to guiding youth towards fulfilling careers in the creative economy through arts, sciences, and technology. Additionally, she has contributed her skills as the Volunteer Program Manager for ADCOLOR Conference and Awards, an organization committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in creative industries.  Ayeshia holds an MBA in HR Management from St. Edwards University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas State University. She is a Certified Professional of Human Resources (PHR) and a proud member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM). With her dynamic leadership and unwavering commitment to employee well-being, Ayeshia continues to drive positive change in both professional and community spheres.

Sherice Torres is the Chief Marketing Officer at ChargePoint, where she oversees all marketing and communication activities. Before joining ChargePoint in August 2023, Sherice served as Chief Marketing Officer at Circle, a global financial technology firm, and as Chief Marketing Officer at Novi, the financial services division of Facebook. She previously served in senior marketing roles at Google, including Google Pay and Google.org, after more than a decade of leadership experience at Nickelodeon. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and earned her MBA at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Sherlen Archibald is a fifteen-year marketing and communications expert, specializing in the intersection of art and storytelling. He is a co-founder of We The Roses, a creative agency for the Arts & Culture sector, whose goal is to equip brands and nonprofits with the tools to exist in a changing landscape. Archibald has worked with clients like Carnegie Hall, Google Arts & Culture, and more, as well as being a founding member of the art collective ARTNOIR and design nonprofit Open House NY.

Justin Gerrard is a seasoned marketing leader with over 15 years of industry experience building growth frameworks, launching and scaling new products, and finding creative solutions for engaging target audiences at companies including Discord, Twitch, and Microsoft. He is currently the Head of Organic Growth at Mistplay, the #1 loyalty rewards app for mobile gamers.Prior to his current role, he was Head of Marketing at Backyard, a video chat startup, which was acquired by Discord. Before this, he built the performance marketing department at Twitch; helped launch the livestreaming business at Meetme, growing revenues by $55M; and cofounded a mobile dating app for Black singles called Bae (team acquisition by ifwe), which registered as a top 50 lifestyle app in over 20 countries. Justin started his career in product management and marketing at Microsoft and American Express.Justin hails from New Jersey, and lives in Oakland, CA with his wife and twin daughters. When he's not working on or advising startups, he enjoys travel, nerding out on consumer tech trends, and praying for the Knicks.

Nicole Simpson exemplifies resilience and leadership, celebrated as a 2023 AdWeek Future is Female winner. Her transition from a 17-year career as a paralegal in diverse law sectors to a DE&I champion has been remarkable. As the Director of DE&I at RAPP, she has been instrumental in driving impactful strategies and fostering an inclusive culture. During her time at Omnicom Health Group, Nicole established the Black Collective and contributed as a key member of the executive leadership team for Black Together, Omnicom's first global Black ERG. These initiatives significantly bolstered the retention and career growth of Black talent. As a single mother of three, she skillfully balances her demanding role at RAPP with her personal responsibilities. Nicole extends her influence through global mentoring, developing a sponsorship program for underrepresented talent, and advocating for psychological safety in the workplace. Her journey, characterized by empowering others towards realizing their potential, epitomizes a blend of personal resilience and professional excellence. In her leisure time, Nicole enjoys being with her children, reading, and running her event design company, Designs by Nic, crafting immersive experiences for clients.

Marques Gartrell is Co-Chief Creative Officer of Wieden + Kennedy New York, where he leads Wieden's largest office alongside creative partner Brandon Henderson and president Jiah Choi.  Prior to his role as CCO, Gartrell was global ECD of McDonald's, where he and his partner Brandon helped reinvigorate cultural relevance for the brand through iconic work like the Famous Orders platform, Menu Hacks, the adult happy meal, and Grimace's Birthday— including a purple milkshake-turned viral TikTok trend. He and his team's work has led to explosive growth and recognition for McDonald's, including being named Effie's Most Effective Brand in 2022, and earning the Most Effective Campaign distinction for Famous Orders in 2023. Throughout his career, Gartrell has led award-winning creative platforms on behalf of a number of other household name brands, including Delta, Vitaminwater, HBO, Duracell, Reebok, Busch, Budweiser, DIRECTV and the NFL. Before coming to Wieden, Marques spent time at Deutsch NY, BBDO, Grey, TBWAChiatDay, Saatchi&Saatchi and Fallon.

Copywriter, Apple Inc. Makeda Loney (she/her) is a Copywriter and Content Creator based in the Bay Area, currently working as a Copywriter for Marcom Creative at Apple Inc. During her career, she has been named to a couple of impressive industry lists, including The Drum's 50 under 30 in the U.S. in 2018, joined the ADCOLOR FUTURES Class of 2019, The Pitch Fanzine's 100 Supermen and Women of 2020 and Business Insider's 50 Stars of Madison Avenue. By night, Makeda becomes Kedapalooza, a variety streamer, pastel lover, and body liberation advocate who prioritizes comfort, safety, and advocacy in her community, Camp Kedapalooza. Since she began streaming on Twitch in October 2020, she has been named a spring 2021 BroadcastHER Grant recipient by the 1,000 Dreams Fund, and a fall 2021 Creator Diversity Fund recipient by StreamElements. She has also served as an ambassador for Hot Topic, the It Gets Better Project, and Paidia Gaming. She's also been featured on BuzzFeed and CNET for her work. Camp Kedapalooza has raised nearly $10,000 for charities including The Trevor Project and Black Girls Code.

Lenworth “Joonbug” McIntosh is a Visual Artist based in Los Angeles, California. His Jamaican roots loom large throughout his work and find reflection across his creative wheelhouse, which includes Illustration, Painting and Film-Photography. An avid collector of images, Lenworth considers the preservation of archives an integral part of his practice. Across mediums, his work is narrative-driven, seeking to capture some emotive moment in the long string of moments that make a life.

Jahbrielle is a St. Louis born, South LA raised writer, photographer and director. She focuses on truthful and compelling storytelling through music, narrative and documentary projects. Her roots run deeply through every part of her artistry, drawing inspiration from family lineage, the African diaspora, music and the magnificence of the natural world. These subjects are often incorporated into her expression. Through the capturing and crafting of images, she reminds every being of their innate worthiness, brilliance and power. Some notable collaborators are HOORAE, Raedio, Zero Fatigue, YouTube Originals, Sienna Naturals, Madewell and Converse. She's a proud graduate of Howard University and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Jahbrielle believes deeply in the power of words and images as tools for self reflection, evolution and a conduit between the past and the present, setting the stage for a brighter future.  

Rodney Williams is the Co-founder of SoLo Funds, the largest community finance platform in the US. Since 2018, SoLo has surpassed 1M loans funded and redefined access to capital and returns for 1.5 million users. As the U.S.'s only Black led Certified B Corp fintech, SoLo continues its leadership, but grounded in the same hope and mission: to build a community that enables financial autonomy for all. Prior to founding SoLo, Rodney founded LISNR and led the company to over $40M in funding, numerous awards and partnership across retail and financial services. Rodney's career started at Procter & Gamble in brand management where he was a critical catalyst in the company's digital strategy and started in eCommerce & social media. Rodney has been recognized with numerous awards, including Ad Age's 40 Under 40 in 2012; Cannes Gold Lion award in 2015; and CNBC Disruptor 50 List in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019 and 2023 to name a few. Rodney is a graduate of West Virginia University and Howard University. Rodney is a member of the 2019 Class of Henry Crown Fellows within the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute.

I began my career in brand management at Procter & Gamble, after graduating from Miami University (Oxford, OH). My brand-building work spans across many brands in beauty, pet, family categories, as well as capability building in corporate marketing roles. A highlight of my time was when I led My Black is Beautiful at P&G, and I launched the“The Talk” campaign that won over 150 industry awards including 5 Cannes Lions and an Emmy in 2018.   I have also deepened my marketing experience within the Tech industry, leading brand marketing campaigns at Google, and consulting with advertisers to define and execute digital and multicultural-led marketing & media strategies.  Additionally, I spent time at Lilly in a consumer marketing role focused on multicultural patient innovation in communications, in which I partnered with key brands in the US Affiliate, and of note with the Cymbalta team to launch the first spanish-language TV copy for Cymbalta in the U.S.   Most recently, I led Brand Partnerships and B2B marketing at Canela Media.  When I'm not working and spending time with my children, I love to cook (soul ood is a favorite), read, and watch sports - especially women's gymnastics and football.  My service commitments include several activities/responsibilities as a life-long member of Quinn Chapel AME Church in Forest Park, OH and as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  I am a Cincinnati, OH native and now also reside in New York City.

Sergio is a seasoned Creative, Marketing, and Technology executive who has helped global brands embrace creativity & digital experiences for over 20 years. Throughout his career, he has transformed Global Marketing & Product organizations through Integrated Campaigns, Digital and E-commerce platforms, Content Studios, AI & Personalization, UX design, streaming video platforms, experiential & global events, and customer loyalty programs for some of the world's most recognizable brands including Adobe, Amazon, Apple, Disney, Facebook, Ford, Volkswagen, and more.A designer by trade, Sergio blends creativity and innovation into customer-centric marketing strategies, campaigns, and experiences that build relationships with audiences while delivering clear revenue impact for global brands. As a technologist and product leader, Sergio champions the power of creativity, data, and technology to inspire global teams in building AI-driven digital experiences, virtual event platforms, and customer content that foster loyalty and engagement through creative storytelling and personalized experiences.Sergio leads a global team of world-class designers, storytellers, UX strategists, marketers, and technologists in "Connecting Brand to Demand" through brand creative, integrated campaigns, web design, video content, and digital product experiences. As a global and international leader, Sergio also ensures marketing strategies are tailored to diverse geographic regions, maintaining brand relevance while celebrating cultural differences that help generate appeal worldwide.In addition to his corporate achievements, Sergio invests in the future of creative and marketing leaders, sharing expertise as a mentor and advisor at ONE School, and serving as a guest lecturer at prestigious institutions such as Stanford, NYU, and UC Berkeley, speaking on topics ranging from Branding, Design Thinking, and Customer Experience Innovation to the Power of Diversity in Marketing and Technology organizations.

Dessie Brown, Jr. has travelled the world as a connector among the most known and well-respectedfigures in the industries of media, sports, politics and business. As the brainchild of LD Unlimited - amarketing, consulting, and event production company he established over 17 years ago, he has loanedhis expertise on projects for clients such as McDonalds, AT&T, State Farm, Cheetos, FX, Wingstop, Nissan, Lyftand more. His integrity, talent and pure knack for predicting trends has led him to work with thelegendary Tom Joyner, Super Bowl Champions Martellus and Michael Bennett and Former UFCChampion Kamaru Usman. Dessie currently serves as the Head of Digital Programming for actressand producer Marsai Martin's production company Genius Entertainment where his repertoireincludes overseeing projects with Verizon, Facebook, YouTube and more. Dessie is also Co-Founderof The Franchise Game, the first and only African-American Franchise Symposium. Dessie was also instrumental in working with One Music Fest and Live Nation Urban to bring TwoGether Land Music Festival to Dallas.

An Atlanta-based, award-winning marketer (2017 Bronze Effie, 2019 Brand Innovators Top 40 under 40 Marketers, 2021 Woman to Watch in Marketing, 2022 Top FinTech Marketer), Tia Cummings-Hopkins has over 17 years of brand marketing experience across companies like Johnson & Johnson, Kellogg's, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Procter & Gamble. From May 2021 to May 2023, she worked at fintech giant Square as the SVP, Global Brand Marketing, leading the team responsible for Brand Insights & Strategy, Integrated Marketing, Experiential Activations, and Brand Partnerships. Since August 2023, Tia has run 925 Consulting, a boutique marketing consultancy offering fractional CMO services to Black-owned businesses across a variety of industries including CPG, travel/hospitality, and financial services. Prior to her career in brand marketing, she had roles in corporate philanthropy, manufacturing operations, and product development.  Tia attended Hampton University as a Presidential Scholar and earned her B.S. in chemical engineering. She also has an MBA from the Krannert School of Management (now Daniels School of Business) at Purdue University where she was a Business Opportunity Program Fellow.  Cummings-Hopkins has always had a passion for community service and giving back to those less fortunate. Her 20 year service record includes volunteering with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, America Needs You, Junior Achievement, the Urban League, and via her beloved sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She currently serves on the board of two non-profits; For the Children (a Christian-based organization that supports children in foster care) and Hue (a community platform focused on supporting and promoting more people of color in corporate America).  In her free time, Tia enjoys anything related to Marvel comics, traveling, reading, and spending time with her husband, family and friends.

Sherman Wright is the co-founder and managing partner of TEN35 (www.ten35.com), a creative company specializing in transforming brands through culture. An entrepreneur whose work and thought leadership has created award-winning campaigns for global brands including Pepsi, Nike, Disney, Microsoft, Polaris, Stellantis, American Express, JP Morgan Chase, Meta and the City of Chicago. Sherman's accomplishments have been recognized by The New York Times, Inc., Advertising Age, Adweek, Black Enterprise, The Chicago Tribune, and Crain's Chicago Business to name a few.

Kalina, Tech Trailblazer and Forbes 30 Under 30 North America Honoree, is a dynamic and visionary leader in the tech industry with over a decade of expertise in strategic event marketing, customer-led growth, and community building. As the founder of UnapologeTECH, she leads a global consulting platform dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses through training, content development, and community engagement, all with the mission of fostering a more equitable and accessible world. In her role as a marketing leader at the unicorn tech company Mixpanel, Kalina drives innovation and growth. She also serves as an advisor to the Venture Capital Firm First Round Capital and is an Evangelist for early-stage startups like Base.ai, a cutting-edge customer-led growth platform. Beyond her professional endeavors, Kalina is a renowned podcaster, author, and speaker, sharing her valuable insights on tech, marketing, and leadership.

Sherman Winfield is an Atlanta-based Executive Creative Director at VML. His current duties include overseeing North America creative efforts for StudioX, the execution arm of OpenX, the bespoke agency network set up by WPP for The Coca-Cola Company. His latest work was an international launch for Minute Maid Zero Sugar, starring award-winning actor Jon Hamm. Some of his past clients from prior agencies include Sam's Club, Georgia Power, Kraft Mac & Cheese, Obama for America, Domino's and New York Lottery.    Prior to VMLY&R, he served as VP/Creative Director at Fitzco for four years. During his tenure, he led creative on the world's largest spice manufacturer McCormick, French's, Stubb's, Coca-Cola, Southern Company, amongst others regional and national brands. His most noted work during his tenure at Fitzco includes Coca-Cola's “1,000 Name Celebration”, the :15 radio assignment-turned-national campaign for Share a Coke, and the full rebrand of French's Mustard that resulted in a new creative platform, record sales, and a series of daring experiential efforts, including the highly successful Mustard Ice Cream.    Sherman's creative work has been recognized and awarded internationally by Cannes, D&AD, One Club, Clios, London International Awards, New York Festivals, ADC, Radio Mercurys, The Webbys, The Shortys and numerous others. He has also been on multiple advertising juries, both locally and internationally, to recognize the industry's best work. Business Insider also named him one of 50 Rising Stars on Madison Ave. in 2021.   He's also passionately committed in helping to build a far-more diverse advertising landscape by actively participating in numerous efforts within the industry. This includes being named lead instructor and tutor at One Club's ONE School, a free 16-week portfolio program aimed to help Black creatives break into advertising. In its first year, the graduate-to-hire rate was 80%. Sherman was also a part of the groundbreaking documentary series, Black Madison Ave., in which New York Festivals pulled together 6 of the 10 Black ECDs (less than 1% of creative leadership across major holding companies) to address the glaring discrepancy, and ways to fix it. Outside of the industry, Sherman adores collecting rare sneakers (upwards of 165 pair & counting), DJIng, spending time with his superhero wife, two amazing sons and his puppy Coltrane.

North St. Louis, MO native Craig James Mitchell has established himself in the intersection of storytelling, culture, and business for nearly 16 years as a Voiceover Artist, MC/Curator, Marketing Executive, and Community Builder. Since 2013, he has enhanced connections between purpose-driven brands and their respective communities under his creative and talent service, Craig Mitchell Effect LLC. His campaign, 'The People's Voice,' showcases his role in his creative network as a "mouthpiece for hustlers" who are shifting the world with their stories and experiences to curate the culture he wants to see with the gift of voice. Craig's voiceover journey began in 2015, when he initially provided scratch reads for pitch work at his former agency, Translation + United Masters LLC. Embracing their ethos of 'pushing culture forward' early in his advertising career, Craig carved a unique niche as a voiceover artist. His approach helps amplify stories and messages by infusing them with his infectious personality, genuine discernment, and innate tone and gravitas. These qualities deeply resonate with listeners, making him a go-to artist for his community of creatives. Under CM Effect, Craig has delivered storytelling magic for an impressive array of clients, including the NBA, NFL, Moët Hennessy, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Footlocker, Statefarm, and Google, to name a few. In 2023, Craig was cast as the inspiring voice of Budweiser's "6 Degrees of Bud" nationwide Commercial Campaign, featuring fellow hometown hero Metro Boomin. Roc Nation subsequently called on Craig to reverently narrate Jay-Z's Tribute exhibit, "The Book Of Hov," celebrating the icon's career for the 50th year of Hip-Hop. He was then chosen to be the voice of Courageous Conversations Global's groundbreaking DWB Automobile concept, designed to protect Black drivers during routine traffic stops, stirring the entire advertising industry. And he's no stranger to immortalizing monumental moments – having narrated Nike's tribute film to the NBA's 75th Anniversary, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Craig's impact extends beyond voiceover work. He is a true Master of Ceremony, fostering a sense of unity in any space through the universal language of music. This passion led him and his friends to co-found Melodies NYC, a community that uses music theory and their gifts to bring feeling and identity to various spaces across the city. His unique style of MCing and live community management has shaped unforgettable experiences like Brooklyn's favorite family reunion: Brown Sugar Bounce, Lavender & Velvet, Fun With Friends, Everyday Ppl, and many others. Outside of the spotlight, Craig is a dedicated advocate for his community. He serves on the board of the Creative Heritage Foundation, a role that allows him to support and elevate black creatives in St. Louis. This commitment is deeply rooted in his upbringing and education at Gateway HS and Alabama A&M University. Craig's ultimate goal is to inspire the next generation of creatives to be their best self, pursue their dreams, and think beyond their imagination.With a career that spans from the boardrooms of major brands to the airwaves of cultural phenomena, Craig Mitchell is a catalyst for disruption and a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. For more information about Craig and his work, visit craigmitchelleffect.com or contact connect@cmeffect.com. 

Liliane Bedford joins Confluential Films from Stacey Sher's Shiny Penny Productions, where she served as Vice President of Development and Production. During her time at Shiny Penny, Liliane she co-produced the upcoming A24 horror pic Heretic and worked to expand a robust development slate in both Film & TV.  Previously, she worked as a creative executive at Issa Rae's Hoorae Media, coming there after working with director Melina Matsoukas on notable projects such as Rae's acclaimed HBO series Insecure. While at Hoorae, Liliane co-produced the second season of A Black Lady Sketch Show. Prior to that, Liliane worked with director Melina Matsoukas on creative projects such as HBO's Insecure and eventually left to join Hoorae Film & TV where she co-produced season 2 of A Black Lady Sketch Show. Liliane is passionate about working with creatives of color to develop and produce meaningful and entertaining content that resonates with diverse audiences.  Liliane is a proud alum of Howard University and a native of Texas where she briefly worked in politics before transitioning to the entertainment industry in 2015 shifting her activism to storytelling.

Jason is a trailblazer who has spent the past 15 years crafting immersive narratives that captivate audiences, fuel brand visibility and empower communities. He thrives in the margins, and always looking for opportunities to challenge marketing norms.  During his tenure at Logitech, Jason founded and led the Global Experiential Team, steering the enterprise business to unprecedented success with a Player-Coach mentality. He crafted and executed a comprehensive multi-channel marketing strategy, resulting in remarkable achievements that set a new industry standard. Jason also pioneered Logitech's global Thought Leadership campaigns, strategically positioning the company as an authoritative voice in the industry. As a staunch advocate for diversity & inclusion, Jason established Logitech's first Black Employee Resource Group and hosted company wide discussions on race and equity.  Prior to Logitech, Jason served as the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategic Partnership Lead at Cisco Systems. There, he partnered with Cisco's Executive Leadership Team to design tailored inclusion strategies, cultivating an empowered organizational culture. Jason oversaw a comprehensive portfolio of programs, driving the growth of the next generation of diverse leaders and solidifying Cisco's position as an industry-leading advocate for inclusivity.  Before his roles at Logitech and Cisco, Jason held the position of NFL Entertainment & Player Marketing Manager at the National Football League. In this capacity, he strategically orchestrated high-impact marketing engagements for NFL partners, Owners, Players, and Fans across marquee events such as the Super Bowl, NFL Draft, NFL Kickoff, and International Series. His accomplishments include spearheading the successful launch of the NFL Legends Community, owning and executing exclusive VIP partner activations, and directing live event production for NFL Network and partner content.  Currently, Jason's entrepreneurial spirit shines through as the founder of Kinetic Culture, where he crafts compelling brand narratives that leave a positive social impact. With a passion for immersive storytelling and a proven track record of success, Jason is a trusted guide in the ever-evolving landscape of experiential marketing and community engagement. 

Executive Director, Muse by Clio | The Clio AwardsCharell Star is Executive Director of Muse by Clio, covering the intersection of advertising and pop culture for the global publication on creativity in advertising and beyond. Prior to joining Muse, she covered style, tech, and culture for Newsweek, MadameNoire, and Business News Daily; she has appeared as a contributor and expert on Fox's “Good Day New York,” NBC's “New York Live,” Cheddar TV and more. Additionally, Charell has held content creation positions at Meta and WPP. Outside of work, Star is a nationally recognized foster care and adoption advocate. A former foster youth herself, she passionately uses her platform to improve the lives of those in care around the country. Charell is a graduate of Boston University and currently resides with her spouse and son in Maplewood, NJ. Follow along with Charell's work at Muse by Clio on Instagram @ClioAwards and LinkedIn @TheClioAwards.

Desmond Marzette is a sports, lifestyle, and entertainment marketing expert with over 20 years of experience working with the biggest names and Brands in the industry: Gatorade, Levi's, Corona, Jordan Brand, Beats, 2K Sports, EA Sports/Fifa (Hispanic Market), Nike, Old Spice, Target, Coke, and many more. He now sits as Executive Creative Director at ChiatDay Los Angeles.  Desmond gains the most satisfaction from creating epic pop culture moments for the world to enjoy and be inspired by, just as much as he does.

As an honoree in Ad Age's prestigious 40 Under 40 list, Ryan is an accomplished marketing leader with a proven track record in Food & Beverage, Wine & Spirits, Music, and Tech industries. His expertise lies in marketing strategy, planning and operations, collaborative agency management, and the successful ideation and production of campaigns big and small; from brief to execution. Notable highlights of his career encompass award-winning campaigns at Hennessy (Cannes Lions) and Spotify. As well as creating and co-hosting the "Marketing Misfits" podcast for 39 episodes celebrating multicultural voices in brand and marketing. Today, Ryan currently consults full time with Google leading a variety of brand and marketing projects. Additionally, Ryan runs his fractional marketing consulting firm called 35th & Mac helping brands & entrepreneurs do their best work. 

With a diverse career spanning tech, beauty, fashion, non-profits, and wellness, Michanda brings a wealth of insight and experience to each endeavor. She worked on the team that launched Meta's first Latinx & Hispanic creator program, a landmark project that underscored her commitment to fostering diverse voices and perspectives within the digital realm. Prior to Meta, Michanda worked for over 15 years in the fashion industry in everything from brand management, marketing, visual merchandising and styling before pivoting into strategy & operations - always keeping diversity, equity & inclusion at the forefront of her work. Michanda's commitment to equity is not just a professional stance but a personal mission to leverage her platforms and abilities for societal betterment. This commitment shines brightly in her current roles as a Creative Operations Consultant and the Co-Lead for the Black@ADCOLOR Community group, she plays a pivotal role in pioneering initiatives that not only welcome diversity but harness it as a fundamental source of innovation, strength and most importantly - community.

Kamal Collins is a Senior Art Director—born & raised Chicago, he was involved in the city's rich creative communities at an early age. As an Art Director, Designer & (sometime) Fine Artist, he seeks to find the connection between humanity and the cultural nuances within politics, art, fashion, diasporic heritage and music in an effort to maintain authenticity in his work. Kamal has spent over a decade bringing these ideas to media agencies where he's helped craft brand campaigns for brands and names like the NBA, Vans, Jay-Z, Donald Glover & Alicia Keys. He currently works for Translation | UnitedMasters and resides in Downtown Los Angeles.