Black Out 2023, a transformative campaign launched by the Black British Network in partnership with , CEO of LIONS, aims to revolutionize the representation of Black talent at Cannes Lions. This collaborative effort is set to challenge the industry's norms and create a platform for authentic diversity and inclusion.
The campaign calls upon organizations in the marketing and creative industries to ensure the presence of Black talent at Cannes Lions, the largest industry gathering worldwide. With a goal of enabling up to 50 individuals from the Black community to participate in this year's festival, the campaign focuses on securing investments from major organizations. Cannes Lions will provide Festival Passes, while the Black British Network will lead an investment campaign to cover travel, accommodation, and associated expenses. Any additional funds raised will support the ongoing equity and inclusion efforts of the Black British Network.
Black Out 2023 is committed to improving accessibility and inclusivity from the ground up. It welcomes Black talent at all career stages, ranging from industry veterans to those seeking entry points. Interested individuals can submit their applications through the Black British Network website, and a dedicated Crowdfunder has been launched to support the cause. By providing proximity, support, and connections, the campaign empowers Black individuals to develop personally and professionally within the industry. It also fosters meaningful relationships and collaboration within a like-minded community.
This initiative builds upon the success of Cephas Williams' previous campaign, "Cephas at Cannes," launched in 2022 to amplify Black representation at the Festival. Williams invested £20,000 of his own funds to bring Black talent, inspiring the industry to join his commitment to inclusion. The subsequent campaign not only tripled Williams' initial investment but also secured fully funded access to Cannes Lions for six individuals.
The visionary partnership between Cannes Lions and the Black British Network acknowledges Williams' remarkable ability to identify opportunities that uplift and nurture Black individuals. Despite industry leaders acknowledging the need for greater diversity, Black talent continues to face underrepresentation and undervaluation at all levels.
Black Out 2023 presents industry leaders and organizations with a tangible opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to action. By investing in this campaign, they can actively contribute to increasing access and fostering an environment that truly supports and values Black talent. For those interested in contributing, please contact [email protected].
Together, Black Out 2023 and Cannes Lions are shaping a future where Black talent flourishes, and the industry embraces true inclusivity and equity. This initiative marks a significant milestone for the Black British Network as it strives to make Black talent authentically visible and engaged in the industry, moving beyond mere representation to create a thriving and dynamic creative landscape.
Black Out 2023 is committed to improving accessibility and inclusivity from the ground up. It welcomes Black talent at all career stages, ranging from industry veterans to those seeking entry points. Interested individuals can submit their applications through the Black British Network website, and a dedicated Crowdfunder has been launched to support the cause. By providing proximity, support, and connections, the campaign empowers Black individuals to develop personally and professionally within the industry. It also fosters meaningful relationships and collaboration within a like-minded community.
This initiative builds upon the success of Cephas Williams' previous campaign, "Cephas at Cannes," launched in 2022 to amplify Black representation at the Festival. Williams invested £20,000 of his own funds to bring Black talent, inspiring the industry to join his commitment to inclusion. The subsequent campaign not only tripled Williams' initial investment but also secured fully funded access to Cannes Lions for six individuals.
The visionary partnership between Cannes Lions and the Black British Network acknowledges Williams' remarkable ability to identify opportunities that uplift and nurture Black individuals. Despite industry leaders acknowledging the need for greater diversity, Black talent continues to face underrepresentation and undervaluation at all levels.
Black Out 2023 presents industry leaders and organizations with a tangible opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to action. By investing in this campaign, they can actively contribute to increasing access and fostering an environment that truly supports and values Black talent. For those interested in contributing, please contact [email protected].
Together, Black Out 2023 and Cannes Lions are shaping a future where Black talent flourishes, and the industry embraces true inclusivity and equity. This initiative marks a significant milestone for the Black British Network as it strives to make Black talent authentically visible and engaged in the industry, moving beyond mere representation to create a thriving and dynamic creative landscape.