Tampa agency PPK is relaunching its Unite & Be Proud website, a digital hub dedicated to highlighting the rich LGBTQ+ history of Florida and the Tampa Bay area, during LGBT History Month in October.
The original initiative began as a merchandise line in 2021 to support local LGBTQ+ organisations during Pride month and use the agency’s creative resources and skills to take meaningful action independent from client work. In 2022, it expanded to a website born out of efforts to counteract restrictive legislation passed in Florida banning educational materials.
Now, PPK is repositioning the site to centre around Florida themes and identity, drawing greater attention to the LGBTQ+ community’s struggles and triumphs in the region with more focused content and graphics. Through thoughtful exploration, education and reflection, the site aims to empower visitors to think critically about the community’s collective future.
The “Unite & Be Proud” name is a spin on the agency’s motto, “Unite & Take Over” — chosen by PPK as a representation of the power of unity to inspire limitless creativity and open up opportunities for groundbreaking work. Through this initiative, the agency has been able to support organisations including Tampa Pride, St. Pete Pride and the Rose Dynasty Foundation, most recently creating an integrated awareness campaign about LGBTQ+ youth homelessness in June 2024 during Pride Month.
PPK’s commitment to Pride and allyship to underrepresented communities is year-round, and the agency is proud to empower its talented group of creatives to pursue projects they are passionate about. This ongoing initiative highlights how a supportive, flexible and creative environment can lead to innovative solutions and impactful campaigns that push the industry forward.
The relaunch reflects PPK’s deep-rooted dedication to fostering an environment that’s for everyone and represented by everyone, inside and outside of the agency’s walls. By embracing diverse viewpoints and unique talents, PPK mobilises its mission to develop innovative approaches, bring life to new ideas and create an impact throughout the community.
The revamped Unite & Be Proud website launched on October 1, viewable here.
“Great work comes from giving people the freedom to follow their passions, and Unite & Be Proud embodies that spirit. By fostering a culture where creative autonomy thrives, we open the door to meaningful progress,” said Kayla Goucher, marketing coordinator at PPK. “With the challenges the LGBTQ+ community continues to face, especially in a crucial election year, we believe it's essential to provide educational tools and real stories to inspire positive change both in our industry and beyond.”