WHY THE DEMAND FOR INCLUSIVE AND EMPOWERING BRANDS ARE INCREASING

Many years ago, these words found a permanent place in my heart. Two short lines that provided perspective, comfort, and meaning to moments that often times left me reaching for language to describe feelings I couldn’t put into words. As the founder of an advertising agency, I think very deeply on what Brands mean, stand for, and ultimately symbolize. Nayyirah’s words served as a guiding north star of something deeper below the surface that hints at the mystery of our relationships and how ultimately it is our connection with each other that we end up valuing most in life, so let us drive positivity with each other.

Quality Contributions & Global Reach

Our relationship with other people’s lives means everything, and to paraphrase Robin Sharma, “the quality of our lives comes down to the quality of our contributions,” that we have with each other. I believe in people, and despite our challenges, our world is becoming a more open and accepting place, because we are getting up each day and are deciding to be better. The advent of mobile devices, now gives us the power to see, highlight, and share these decisions on a global level. A power that was once reserved for the biggest media companies, can now be wielded by anyone. I now ask myself, how will we use this power and how can I help brands contribute substance and quality into people’s lives?

Consumer Demand

More brands are appearing everyday that are inclusive, and that showcase and celebrate people from the entire global community in a positive and sophisticated manner. They aren’t successful because this approach is the right thing to do. They are successful because there is a great demand for brands that are diverse, inclusive, empowering, and positive. From a dollar perspective, the proof is right in front of your eyes. When I saw the global success of Wonder Woman, or that Black Panther hauled in $404M in its opening weekend, I wasn’t the least bit surprised. As Reese Witherspoon said, “they are not a public service project. They are a big time, bottom line enhancing, money making commodity.” Don’t underestimate the intrinsic and economic power that comes along with celebrating groups of people that have been overlooked in a positive way.

An Invitation

As we make decisions about our brands, let’s consider not where we are in society, but rather where we want to go.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Oscar is the Founder and General Manager of ZERO1, a minority-owned Professional Services Firm specializing in business management, consulting, recruiting, design, and advertising. Their work spans across a range of industries, such as real estate, sports, automotive, media & entertainment, CPG, and more. He’s a Board Member of HUNTERS HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT GROUP, an advisor to GLG & GUIDEPOINT, and a 13 year RED BULL Veteran. Oscar regularly writes and speaks on business strategy, advertising & marketing, professional & personal development, and more. Follow across social via www.oscarchow.com