I have always had a passion for mentorship and supporting young people. Fostering the next generation of diverse leaders in the advertising industry has to be intentional. It won’t just happen. I love that the AEF is focused on this mission and specifically making an impact with HBCU’s. Having navigated the corporate and tech spaces for over 25 years, I have witnessed firsthand the critical importance of mentorship and educational support in shaping successful careers. The AEF allows me an opportunity to scale my efforts.
I know our industry isn’t just about the consumption of products and services; it’s about building connections, inspiring change, and making a meaningful impact on the world. We are changemakers. The decisions we make have the power to shape culture, technological advancements, champion social responsibility, promote diversity and address critical issues to improve people’s lives. Ten years ago we would not have been able to anticipate just how much retail technology would change how people shop for their daily essentials. Our industry is constantly changing and innovative marketers understand that brands need to move with the pace of consumers. I am constantly excited about what will come next.
Do what you love. Some people argue that loving your job isn’t necessary as long as you excel at it, but I believe passion, joy and enthusiasm are foundational to success. Loving the work and having a passion for it is essential.
We’ve been discussing diversity in the marketing and advertising industry for far too long, and yet, the needle has barely moved. Black and Hispanic talent, in particular, remain drastically underrepresented. Supporting diversity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic advantage that helps us navigate our rapidly changing world. I love the idea of inspiring others through leadership examples–when you see it, you believe it! Young people need to see the possibilities by witnessing diverse leaders in action. When we prioritize building a diverse, talented team, we open doors for fresh perspectives and new ideas, driving our businesses forward and creating a more equitable and profitable industry.
I enjoy navigating big strategic problems and setting a clear, attainable vision for large, diverse, and multifaceted teams. I thrive on charting a path with defined goals and expectations that everyone can get behind. Seeing the team come together to achieve those goals and then celebrating our successes as a team is incredibly rewarding. It’s about leading the team, empowering them, and witnessing the incredible things we can accomplish together.
The ability to communicate clearly and seek clarity when unsure is critical. It’s okay to say you don’t know something, but it can’t stop there. Through active listening and communication, you can learn almost anything. A challenging internship with professionals who genuinely care about teaching can help students improve these skills. This hands-on experience not only improves their ability to articulate ideas and ask questions but also provides invaluable insights into the professional world, and will help them get comfortable, build confidence and understand what success looks like.
I would tell students to never stop learning and exploring. You can’t say you have a career interest in something, but only do the minimum required reading assigned by your professors. Ask yourself what information will help you grow in the field, without being prompted by a mentor or professor? Find material to consume that will make you sharper, more knowledgeable and ask yourself hard questions. Be an introspective learner. Be curious. By actively pursuing knowledge and developing your own opinions, you’ll not only find your voice but also lay the foundation for becoming a thought leader in your field.
