Interpublic and Momentum Host Black Impact Day

Interpublic’s Black Employee Network (BEN) hosted its inaugural Black Impact Day. The event was conceptualised by Black@Momentum, led by Patrick Bennett, and brought to life in partnership with Interpublic’s Diversity and Social Impact team. This day-long event highlighted the breadth of Interpublic’s Black talent, celebrated achievements, built community through networking opportunities, and provided insights into Black talent growth within the organisation through data. Emceed by Carina White, account director at R&CPMK, the event’s theme was “Nurturing Brilliance: Cultivate, Grow & Celebrate.”  

Imani Ellis, founder and CEO of CultureCon and The Creative Collective, gave keynote remarks during which she said, “Big things start small. When I began my career at NBCUniversal, I was an intern and eventually worked my way up to vice president. Along the way, I realised that what may seem obvious to you might not be apparent to the people around you, especially those in positions of power. Embrace your unique point of view - it’s your strength and something that can really make a difference in those pivotal moments.” 

Navigating the industry and career progression has always been a nuanced process for members of the Black community. The first panel discussion of the day sought to demystify career mobility and shed light on how one can develop a mindset of “relentless forward momentum.” Panelists included Future Forward co-founders David Pilgrim and Jaquay Saintil, and Kyle Davy, associate creative director, Momentum, and Partner, Future Forward. 

Another panel highlighted how Interpublic continues to break boundaries in Black firsts, including the first Black female chief creative officer at a holding company, and the first Black chief executive officer of an advertising agency. This panel included Alejandro Clabiorne, chief operating officer at Mediahub, Shannon Washington, chief creative officer at Gotham, Patrick Bennett, global chief creative officer at Jack Morton, and was moderated by Marc Wilson, EVP, executive director of strategic inclusion at FCB Chicago. 

A final panel dove into how brands have boosted their success by embracing and celebrating the influential power of Black culture in pop culture. The conversation featured Jennifer Frommer, SVP, partnerships and creative content, Columbia Records and Sony Music, and Shavonne Dargan, SVP, strategy and marketing, CURATED by LiveNation. It was moderated by Kyle Davy. 

The day concluded with a happy hour with music by DJ Amonn AKA Amonn Mitchell, Senior Associate at Golin.