VML and Bold Culture Inspire Executives of Colour with Candid New Series

According to the 4A’s 2023 Diversity in Agencies Survey Report, Black representation among agency leaders fell from 5% in 2021 to 0.75% in 2022. In an industry where diversity and inclusion are critical yet underrepresented, Bold Culture, an inclusion consulting firm founded in 2016, is excited to introduce the latest initiative in partnership with VML, "Colleague to Colleague,” to inspire and activate current and future executives of colour. This initial season features Black senior executives from VML, a leading creative agency, engaging in candid conversations about their careers; current achievements; challenges within the industry; and the future of advertising, creativity, and talent — from strategy and experiential to culture and belonging.

The "Colleague to Colleague" series is an extension of Bold Culture’s ongoing Bold Perspectives series, which first launched in 2018 with the mission of sharing the full experiences of diverse executives in the media, marketing, advertising, and tech industries.

"This is not just a series, but a movement to amplify the perspectives of Black leaders within the industry. By showcasing their journeys and insights, we aim to inspire change and foster a more inclusive and equitable advertising landscape,” Darren Martin Jr., Bold Culture’s founder and CEO,” said.

"Our participation in the 'Colleague to Colleague' series underscores our commitment to diversity and inclusion. By highlighting the experiences and contributions of our Black senior executives, we hope to pave the way for future leaders and create a space where all voices are heard and valued,” said Tasha Gilroy, VML’s global chief belonging officer, who played a pivotal role in bringing Bold Culture and VML together.

This new five-part series will be released every Thursday starting in September.

Series Information

Launch Date: September 12

Release Schedule: Every Thursday (except 09/27), noon unless otherwise noted

Sign Up for Live Streaming and/or Watch the Show on Demand at: colleaguetocolleague.com or boldctoc.com

Platforms Streaming: LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, X

The inaugural episode will feature VML strategy team members Brian Owens and Amber Chenevert. These discussions aim to offer valuable insights and perspectives crucial in today's media landscape.

Episode Lineup

09/12 Episode 1: Dr. Amber Chenevert & Brian Owens

●      Amber Chenevert, PhD: managing director, strategy & insights, VML​ 

●      Brian Owens: managing director, global growth, VML

09/19 Episode 2: Sherman Winfield, Kaleeta McDade & Shaun Campbell

●      Sherman Winfield: executive creative director, VML

●      Kaleeta McDade: global chief experience design officer, VML​ 

●      Shaun Campbell: group executive producer, VML​

09/27 (FRIDAY) Episode 3: Tasha Gilroy & Ezinne Okoro

●      Tasha Gilroy: global chief belonging officer, VML

●      Ezinne Okoro: global chief client & culture strategy officer, VML

10/03 Episode 4: Roy Milton & Adam Woullard | *ON A FRIDAY

●      Roy Milton: creative director, VML

●      Adam Woullard: executive director, public relations, VML 

10/10 Episode 5: Walt Geer & Darren Martin Jr. 

●      Walt Geer: chief creative officer, innovation, North America 

●      Darren Martin Jr: founder & CEO, Bold Culture