Havoc Selected for 2023 GSD&M Diverse Partner Summit in Austin

When Max Rutherford, vice-president of vendor partner diversity at GSD&M, made the decisive call inviting Havoc to join the panel for their 2023 Diverse Partner Summit, there was an immediate and resounding agreement. 

This year's summit centred around the theme 'The Power of Mentorship,' a topic Havoc was intimately familiar with. As a Latina-owned commercial production company, Havoc has consistently acknowledged the inherent disparities in access to opportunities and has actively worked towards rectifying this imbalance. Through initiatives such as shadow programs, an inclusive infrastructure, leadership accountability, and intentional hiring, coupled with unwavering dedication, Havoc has demonstrated that transformative change is possible in an industry predominantly shaped by male and white influences.

Havoc's impressive roster of directors, producers, and editors reflects a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, perspectives, and ideas, yielding a remarkable outcome in the video production realm - authentic representation. Companies like GSD&M, which prioritise equal opportunities within their ranks, have propelled the momentum of diversity, equity, and inclusion over the past decade. Havoc's proactive involvement in these conversations underscores a clear message: either align with the progressive wave of change or make way for those who do.

“At GSD&M’s 2023 Diverse Partner Summit, Havoc’s unshakable voice, presence, and participation on the ‘Better Together: The Power of Mentorship’ panel raised the bar on placing priority, emphasising the importance, and necessity of mentoring underrepresented talent,” shares Max Rutherford, VP of vendor partner diversity/SBLO at GSD&M

In the realm of production, GSD&M and Havoc Content serve as pivotal change-makers by recognising the power to shape narratives. Both organisations have significantly contributed to understanding the responsibility in telling diverse stories authentically, ensuring representation aligns with those of our diverse society. Their commitment extends beyond industry norms, realising that inclusive storytelling breaks stereotypes, fosters empathy and cultivates a sense of belonging. Together, they actively support filmmakers and creatives prioritising diversity and inclusion, giving voice to underrepresented communities and leading the way in making progress toward a more inclusive media landscape. 

“Havoc has been working with GSD&M in production for multiple years, in addition to working with their leadership and diversity team to make actionable changes in our industry,” comments Harro. “This summit was a culmination of those efforts. We will always be pushing towards a positive and hopeful path to a more diverse environment in our industry through our day-to-day efforts in production and operations. We are thankful the Diversity Summit highlights this, but also know it’s just the beginning. Heading into 2024, we are focused on next steps for a more equitable future for all.”

Havoc Content helped highlight the significance of mentoring and shadowing programs for underrepresented talent, advocating for their integration into the inclusivity strategy of all organisations. Other panellists that joined the conversation included Kara Elyse Henderson, owner of Mindful Media and Jodi Bucciarelli, VP/account director of GSD&M. 

"As a member of the BIPOC community, I was honoured to speak for Havoc Content at The Diverse Partner Summit,” shares James. “It was a great chance to discuss the challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in production. Seeing companies genuinely committed to making a difference was crucial. The summit allowed me to not just talk about it but also demonstrate the importance of putting in the work. Being part of a community that shows up for each other and takes responsibility for progress is vital and I'm glad to have been part of that effort."

"Surrounding myself with diverse, talented crew is something that has always just made sense for me - Diversity in our industry simply leads to more creative, resonant, and impactful stories,” expresses Levine. “Being a part of the GSD&M panel and hearing from those on the agency side about their diversity efforts was inspiring and refreshing. I’m honoured to have been asked and look forward to keeping these conversations going!”

"Participating in a panel composed not only of creators and senior leaders of colour, but also allies who deeply understand the value and necessity of diverse perspectives throughout our work was incredibly impactful and rewarding,” says Kara Elyse Henderson, owner of Mindful Media. “Our discussions about intentionally creating space for talent and voices representative of consumers and our global society, resulted in actionable steps that can be applied across industries."

“It was refreshing to have an honest conversation with the panellists about how we can take steps to equalise the bidding process,” adds Lisa Masseur, EP/founder of Tessa Films who moderated a panel on 'Equalizing the Bid Process' at the 2023 Diverse Partner Summit. “Hearing from all sides, I hope this conversation leads to diverse production companies and directors winning more work in the future.”