Diversity in Marketing
As the first event of the new year, we aim to give a voice to people of diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender expression and abilities, as we all come together to discuss the industry and careers within marketing. The event consisted of a panel and Q&A session about diversity in marketing, breakout rooms for networking, and discussion on how to improve diversity and inclusion going forward in the world of marketing and our communities.
During the evening we touched on topics such as: Career journeys within marketing, Obstacles our panel members have faced in the workplace and how they conquered them, and ultimately How diverse students entering the workplace can navigate uncomfortable situations, make their voices heard, and be the most authentic self in their careers.
Our Panellists:
Shantel Clarke, Founder Canadian Black Standard, Reservedx Agency
As the Founder, Head of Talent and Organization for Toronto-based Talent Management Agency, Reservedx, Shantel Clarke wears many hats. From conceptualizing and executing on big-name brand visions to scouting talent and locations for luxury experiential events, Clarke is a marketing magician who breathes life into ideas and turns concepts into reality. Alongside her business partner Hanna Kim, Reservedx has managed to deliver first-rate service for an outstanding list of brand accounts, including CHANEL, Nike, Visa, OVO, Global Citizen, Shopify, and Beats by Dre to name a few. In just six and a half years since its inception in 2014, what started off as a one-woman-show has blossomed into an internationally viable agency providing quality services in event production, partnerships, strategy development, talent management, brand ambassadorship, and more.
Further to Reservedx, Shantel has recently launched a luxury gift box brand Giovaa and is a founding member of a non-profit organization The Canadian Black Standard, an advocacy platform focused on removing systemic barriers faced by Black Canadian Womxn in marketing.
Vienna So, Associate Search Strategist, Critical Mass
Vienna is a graduate from the University of Calgary where she completed a major in Marketing and minor in Communication and Media Studies. She currently works at Critical Mass, a digital experience design agency. She comes with a background rooted in Search Engine Optimization and has worked on clients in industries such as automotive, finance, travel, and more. Outside the (currently home) office she has a passion for interior design, exploring the outdoors, and attempting various DIY projects.
Kevin Espenido, Assistant Marketing Manager, ATB Financial
Kevin is an Assistant Marketing Manager for ATB's Field Marketing team, supporting frontline team members, physical spaces and community activations throughout the province. During his time at ATB, he has grown an affinity for building curated brand experiences and the strategy behind them. His unique position as a LGBTQ+ POC in a large Albertan company is not lost on him, and his efforts reflect a desire to better represent marginalized perspectives in the company's messaging. Outside of the office, Kevin sits on the What I Wish I Knew board of directors and is also a Motivator at YEG Cycle, where he works to create spaces that people feel safe enough to be vulnerable and grow in.
