Black History Month started in the United States in 1926 as Negro History Week, founded by Carter G. Woodson to honor the achievements of Black Americans. Over the years, it has grown into a global observance, with countries like the United Kingdom and Ireland holding their own celebrations at different times of the year. No matter when it’s observed, the purpose is to recognize and uplift the creativity, resilience and influence of Black communities.

Black history transcends borders and continues to shape industries, communities and cultures everywhere. This month, we celebrate the voices and contributions of Black members of our global team, whose perspectives make us stronger, spark innovation and help us better connect with the people we serve.

While Black History Month is a time to reflect and celebrate, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is year-round. Across our business, we witness firsthand how diversity drives our internal success and our ability to connect with and influence the world around us. It’s not just a value; it’s essential to who we are and how we grow.

So, who are we? Meet some of the Black voices on our team as they share how Black history has shaped who they are—and how they’re continuing to make a difference today.

Amira Battle

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time to honor the resilience, brilliance and contributions of Black people throughout history. As a Black woman, it’s deeply personal—it’s about celebrating the achievements of those who came before us and acknowledging the struggles they endured to pave the way.

The title of this piece is “Black History / Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The title “Black History / Our History” is powerful because it reminds us that Black history isn’t just a story for Black people—it’s a critical part of world history.

How has your understanding of Black history evolved over time, and what experiences have contributed to that growth?

Growing up, I learned about Black history in a very limited way—primarily through school lessons on slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. Over time, I’ve realized how much more there is to our story.

What is a tradition or cultural practice within the Black community that you cherish, and how do you incorporate it into your life?

One tradition I really cherish is storytelling—whether it’s through conversations with family, music, or literature. Storytelling has always been a way for us to pass down our history, lessons, and values.

What message or lesson from Black history do you believe is particularly relevant for today's society?

The message I always come back to is that knowledge is power. Black history shows us that seeking information, reading, and going beyond the headlines are forms of liberation.

How do you celebrate or honor Black history in your everyday life, beyond Black History Month?

I honor Black history every day by living with intention and pride in my identity. I support Black-owned businesses, mentor young Black professionals, and make sure I’m always giving back to the community.

Nyle Paul

What does Black History Month mean to you?

To me, Black History Month means Black appreciation. Appreciation of our history and of our people.

The title of this piece is “Black History / Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

This title emphasizes that we are a part of Black history.

How has your understanding of Black history evolved over time, and what experiences have contributed to that growth?

When I was younger, I thought of Black History only as celebrating prominent figures from the past. I didn't realize then that I, too, am part of Black History.

What is a tradition or cultural practice within the Black community that you cherish, and how do you incorporate it into your life?

I really cherish family gatherings that include storytelling, food and music that honors our heritage.

What message or lesson from Black history do you believe is particularly relevant for today's society?

The Civil Rights Movement taught the power of standing together to challenge systemic racism.

How do you celebrate or honor Black history in your everyday life, beyond Black History Month?

I support Black-owned businesses, read books about Black history in my free time, and cook foods that are a part of the Black diaspora. Each day of Black History Month, I research two or three people whom I was unfamiliar with and study their impact on Black History.

Billy Lemorin

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time to honor the resilience, creativity and contributions of Black people throughout history. It's also a moment to celebrate and reflect on the stories and legacies that shape our culture.

The title of this piece is “Black History / Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The title “Black History / Our History” signifies that Black history is not just a separate narrative but an essential part of the collective story. To me, it emphasizes the impact of Black contributions and acknowledges that Black history is integral to understanding the full history of society.

How has your understanding of Black history evolved over time, and what experiences have contributed to that growth?

My understanding of Black history has evolved from first viewing it as just lessons in school to growing up and actually seeing it as a living, ongoing story. Experiences like learning about Haiti's revolutionary history and connecting with my own heritage have deepened my appreciation for the complexity and breadth of Black history.

What is a tradition or cultural practice within the Black community that you cherish, and how do you incorporate it into your life?

A cultural practice I cherish is storytelling. For me, storytelling is one of the best ways to preserve history, pass down traditions and celebrate cultural heritage. I incorporate this into my life through my work as an artist, using my creativity to showcase Black narratives and experiences.

What message or lesson from Black history do you believe is particularly relevant for today's society?

A message from Black history that resonates today is Dr. Martin Luther King's quote, “The time is always right to do right.” It's a reminder that justice and integrity should never be postponed, especially in the face of injustice.

How do you celebrate or honor Black history in your everyday life, beyond Black History Month?

I honor Black history daily by ensuring my work depicts Black themes accurately, supporting Black-owned businesses, and continuing to learn about our history. I also carry it with me through my tattoos—one of '1804' to signify the year Haiti gained its independence and another of Kobe Bryant to honor the late, great legend and his legacy of excellence.

Rebecca Beyene

What does Black History Month mean to you?

For me, Black History Month means the celebration and preservation of our achievements throughout the past, present and future.

The title of this piece is “Black History / Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The title “Black History / Our History” is a statement that highlights the interconnection of Black history within the broader collective history of humanity.

How has your understanding of Black history evolved over time, and what experiences have contributed to that growth?

My understanding of Black history has evolved from viewing it as isolated stories of struggle and achievement to recognizing it as the foundation of global culture, innovation, community and resistance.

What is a tradition or cultural practice within the Black community that you cherish, and how do you incorporate it into your life?

I'm not sure if this is considered a traditional or cultural practice, but I just love that unspoken camaraderie we have with one another.

What message or lesson from Black history do you believe is particularly relevant for today's society?

A message from Black history that I believe is particularly relevant is that joy is a form of resistance.

How do you celebrate or honor Black history in your everyday life, beyond Black History Month?

My pride extends beyond the month of February, and I celebrate my Blackness 365 days a year. I celebrate Black History Month in many ways, including sharing stories or interesting historical facts on social media.

Ifetayo Jabari-Kitwala

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is a time to shine a spotlight on the countless contributions Black people have made to our daily lives—past, present and future. It’s a chance to honor the trailblazers who came before us, celebrate the resilience and brilliance of those shaping the present, and inspire the dreamers building a brighter tomorrow. Black History Month invites us to pause, reflect on the journey we’ve traveled, and embrace a unified hope for a future filled with equity, opportunity and joy. It’s more than a celebration; it’s a heartfelt reminder of the strength, creativity and love that continue to shape our world.

The title of this piece is 'Black History/Our History' - describe the significance of that title.

I am an important part of Black history. I carry the resilience of those who came before me, standing as both a survivor of their struggles and an embodiment of their triumphs. I am evidence of the present, living proof of the progress we’ve made and the work still to be done. And I am a catalyst for the future, using my voice, my actions and my story to inspire and shape what comes next.

How has your understanding of Black history evolved over time, and what experiences have contributed to that growth?

My understanding of Black history has evolved as I’ve come to realize that Blackness, in all its forms, defies limitations. While my identity is deeply rooted in Christ, it is equally rooted in my Blackness. A pivotal part of my growth has been challenging everything I was ever told I was “supposed” to be—what I should do, how I should act, and where I should fit in. Black history, Blackness, Black women, Black men, Black jobs—Black anything and everything—cannot and should not be defined or confined by anyone else’s standards. Once I embraced this truth, my perspective shifted, and my growth became limitless. It’s a constant journey of unlearning, learning and celebrating the freedom to simply be.

What is a tradition or cultural practice within the Black community that you cherish, and how do you incorporate it into your life?

One tradition I deeply cherish within the Black community is Saturday morning cleaning and Sunday dinners. No matter where I am—whether in a new place or on vacation—I try to incorporate these rituals into my life. There’s something so grounding about starting the weekend with a good, deep clean, fueled by old-school Black hits blasting in the background. The broom turning into a mic stand? That’s a vibe all on its own. It sets the tone for a fresh, rejuvenated space. And then there’s Sunday dinner—a hearty, soul-filling meal that wraps up the weekend perfectly. Sharing that kind of love and comfort, even if it’s just with myself, feels like a connection to my roots that’s truly unmatched.

What message or lesson from Black history do you believe is particularly relevant for today's society?

Black history isn’t confined to our textbooks or the well-known “greats” who broke barriers—it’s so much more than that. While celebrating the iconic moments and achievements is important, Black history is also about the subtle, enduring impact of the Black experience on everyday life and decisions. It’s found in the mundane, the creative and the unseen contributions that shape culture and society in powerful ways. History is being made right now, across all industries, if we take a moment to open our eyes to it. It’s not just about shattering glass ceilings—it’s about recognizing the brilliance in each day and how it continues to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

How do you celebrate or honor Black history in your everyday life, beyond Black History Month?

I celebrate and honor Black history in my everyday life by staying connected to my roots and uplifting my community. I read books by Black authors to expand my knowledge and perspective. I explore new ways to care for my health, skin and hair, embracing practices rooted in our heritage. I make a conscious effort to support Black-owned businesses and products, knowing that every purchase is a vote for our collective success. I listen to the stories of my family and others, cherishing the wisdom and resilience that continually shape the woman I am today. And hey, adding a brown or black heart or a Black hand emoji on Slack? A small but heartfelt gesture of pride and solidarity that never hurts.

The HBCU impact: Advancing inclusivity and amplifying voices.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established in the United States primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans who were excluded from predominantly white institutions due to racial segregation and discrimination. During a period marked by systemic racial inequality, these institutions played a pivotal role in empowering Black individuals through education, nurturing leadership qualities, and driving forward the cause of civil rights.

HBCUs transcend the traditional notion of education; they stand as launchpads that propel future generations into greatness. In the sacred confines of these prestigious institutions, the next generation of visionaries, boundary-pushers, and trailblazers are being nurtured. Our Fellowship mission? To cultivate a vibrant talent pipeline that fosters professional growth and ignites an industry-wide transformation. We're partnering with HBCUs to connect their exceptional graduates with our mission of enriching and diversifying our industry's landscape. Together, we're turning the page on history and writing an exciting, inclusive future!

You can read more here to learn more about these institutions and how they continue to make significant impacts in our communities across the nation. If you’d like to learn more about us within the Fellowship, continue reading below!

Behind the voices: Introducing our Fellows and their stories.

Join the S4 Fellowship: Ignite your journey!

Having gained insights into our personal journeys and aspirations, we extend an invitation for you to embark on this extraordinary voyage alongside us. Stay connected and up-to-date by following our company's social media platforms—the central hub for the latest updates, perspectives and captivating narratives.

Applications for the 2024 recruitment cycle have closed, but you can learn more about the S4 Fellowship at our dedicated landing page. Keep an eye on our social channels for updates of when we open applications for the next round of Fellows!

Picture the scene: a creative brief lands on your desk that requires the slow-motion drip of coffee, a chocolate vortex, or the perfect drop of foundation on glowy skin. Cue a producer’s concerned frown, because the type of filmmaking that can capture these specific motions in astounding detail—known as tabletop—requires specialized knowledge. It’s a very particular nook within advertising and marketing, and that’s why there are only so many people who (can) do it. 

Case in point: our Film.Monks team in Amsterdam, which is one of our global film hubs, is one of the few (say, handful) players to offer tabletop services in Europe. On top of that, we have our own robotics in-house, which we need to test ideas and do the actual shoots. This also means we’re in the fortunate position to be able to lower the threshold of entering this field, which is typically hard to get into. That’s why we’ve been welcoming up-and-coming talent into our studio to let them have a taste of tabletop.

Making a tough field to break into more accessible. 

First, let’s back it up a bit and take a look at what tabletop is exactly. This term typically refers to the shooting of objects—think of food and drinks, beauty products or other liquids—in great detail. When you are this close up to a product, storytelling becomes focused around colors, shapes and textures. In practice, it’s all about getting the objects to behave in whatever way you want them to, so that their movements tell the story or create character. Naturally, there are some nice pieces of equipment to help you do the job. 

As a tabletop creative and director—which allows me to be a stunt coordinator, a mess maker, a prop eater or even an explosion specialist every now and then—you have to think deeply about the dynamics and qualities of products, in more detail than you would even think is possible. For example, let’s say we’re creating a commercial for a coffee brand that aims to spotlight the different strengths of its new line of coffee beans. This means we not only have to think about how to communicate the brand voice and product range, but we also need to consider what consumers want to be told, what would catch their attention, and what appeals to their taste. So, what we would do here is bring in color and shape signifiers, like a rounded, soft yellow for the mildest bean and a bold, sharp purple for the strongest flavor, to visualize these slight differences. 

Working creatively within such a narrow scope may be frustration-inducing for some, but highly satisfying for others, and apparently I am the latter type of person. I discovered this when I was given the unique opportunity to explore the world of tabletop—I started as a tabletop director’s Personal Assistant, working as his producer of sorts. After spending many long days assisting on set with no real idea what was happening, writing treatments and even acting in an ad, I finally thought: hang on, I reckon I can do this! Getting such an extensive chance to discover this profession doesn’t come by often, and that’s exactly why we’ve decided that we actively want to make the field more accessible for promising talent.

Carving out a niche for up-and-coming talent and ourselves.  

Let’s zoom in on the how. For a while now, we’ve been involving juniors—including both early career employees and temporary interns—in our tabletop work wherever and whenever we can. Our aim is not only to share knowledge and experience and enable our up-and-coming talent to learn by doing, but also to pass on our passion for the profession in all its messy glory.

From ideation to execution, we make sure to include our rising stars in every step of the tabletop journey, while always taking into consideration where their specific strengths and interests lie. Whereas special effects (SFX) interns might like to know how to get products to move in different ways, junior creatives would need to learn how to flesh out ideas so that the camera team understands what they want. By bringing up-and-coming talent from different disciplines together in one studio team, we allow them to learn a range of new skills within and outside their specific field of interest. For example, how to write and develop short-form storytelling, how to operate cameras, how to train your eyeballs to see in high-speed vision, or how to engineer explosions of chocolate nuts (and many other special effects). And guess what? My fellow experienced Film.Monks and I learn a lot from them, too. 

The secret to discovering talent? Let them show you what they’ve got. 

One of our most successful shared learning experiences so far has been our ongoing Emotional Eats series. This internal initiative, which we started at our tabletop studio in Amsterdam, revolves around producing fun and quirky short-form content that presents the feelings behind your food. Since there is no client pressure, we thought it would be a great way to get our juniors involved.

So, on a bi-weekly basis, we organize a test-and-learn day with the aim to scope out new rigs and develop new technologies. We consider it an opportunity to not only improve our creative development and craft, but also hone the creative conceptualization and directing skills of our entire studio team, including juniors, through regular “experiment and play” time. It’s important to highlight that, while we aim to provide creative and technical guidance, we make sure we give our juniors free reign and full autonomy to do what they want. 

Thus far, the Emotional Eats series has allowed us to educate our up-and-coming talent on the engineering behind this beautiful profession and show them how far you can push emotional storytelling in tabletop through light, movement and sound design. In turn, our juniors have taken this time and used this space to experiment, ask questions and take note, coming up with many groundbreaking ideas along the way. It’s not about simply getting interns to help us out—instead, it’s about building a culture of learning and experimentation, while helping them take the next step in their professional journey.

Ultimately, our main goal is to give those who are still at the dawn of their careers, but show great promise, a chance to explore new avenues in the advertising industry and take a peek into our tabletop processes and projects. More than just a way for us to put the feelers out and see if people would want to join our tabletop team by letting them experience the work, initiatives like our Emotional Eats series are a means to raising our talent internally by allowing them to expand their palate and grow both vertically and horizontally—safe to say, it’s a win-win for everyone involved.

As our company continues to grow, we strive to strengthen our commitment to our diverse global workforce. We are excited to celebrate Women’s History Month and share resources to further our learning and foster connectivity in our community. In light of this, we have asked a number of women from across our organization and around the world to share what Women’s History Month means to them, along with the people and moments that have inspired them throughout their lives and careers. But first, let’s take a moment to recognize how the month came to be.

It all started when 15,000 women marched the streets of lower Manhattan to protest against the working conditions of the garment industry, demanding more economic and political rights. The social protest, which led to a three-month strike, was commemorated one year after the event on February 28, 1909, marking the first Women’s History Day in New York City. Decades later, Women’s History Month began as a week-long celebration in 1981 after Congress passed a resolution that requested the president to designate a week to celebrate the contributions women had made to the United States. In 1987, this week evolved into a full month to recognize the extraordinary achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields. 

Out of all of these incredible achievements—the right to education, the right to work, the right to bodily autonomy—one of the most groundbreaking has been women’s right to vote. On August 26, 1920, the 19th amendment was signed into law, granting women in the United States this crucial right. While this moment is considered a major victory, it’s important to highlight that a number of other laws at the time prohibited many minority groups from voting, including Native American women, Black women, Asian American women, and Latinx women. It wasn't even until 1924 that American-born Native women were granted citizenship and thereby the right to vote. Following the 19th amendment, the work to secure voting rights for each and every woman continued, and required the breaking down of many barriers until all women were finally able to vote in 1965.

Coinciding with Women’s History Month is International Women’s Day on March 8th. Though its roots trace back to as early as 1848 in the United States, this global day of celebration was only officially recognized by the United Nations in 1977—and the world has continued to honor this particular day ever since. This year, we celebrated International Women's Day with a series of local events as well as a global program which put a spotlight on many inspiring women from our organization to, as our Chief Marketing Officer Kate Richling highlights, “further our thinking and support our mission to embrace equity in the workplace.” To stay in tune with the 2023 theme of Women's History Month, which is Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories, “We’ve invited our wider team to submit questions and videos in advance to keep the conversation more dynamic and personal,” says Richling—and well, they came through. Continue reading to learn more about what Women’s History Month means to the diverse women of our global community.

Vanessa Starr, Influencer Manager 

Toronto, Canada

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

1 year.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

Women's History Month is a time to not just celebrate and be excited about all the accomplishments we've made as a community, but also to recognize all the areas that still need improvement and educate ourselves and others on them. To me, it represents a time to create an open discussion about equality!

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

She isn't a historical figure (yet!), but my stepmom has been my source of inspiration and goal setting for my entire life. She was the first of her family to go to college and quickly started working in HR for Liz Claiborne Canada. She's always worked very hard and made her way up the ladder to now being the first-ever female President of a data cable manufacturing company, while also opening up her own HR consulting firm on the side. Her drive to be that boss-lady inspires me to do the same, keep my head held high, be proud, and make sure I never feel knocked down by those who are envious of my success. 

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Kelsey Boyer, the founder of Women's Leadership Accelerator, is my mentor—both in my career and beyond! Nearly 2 years ago, I took her course for women who work in male-dominated environments and want to harness their skills to come out on top. I used to work in manufacturing and was surrounded by men who were very negative and tough to deal with. Her course and her coaching turned my career around and propelled my ability to manage a team and work equally alongside men (and women) of power. I could not recommend her enough! She's also on LinkedIn and shares amazing posts almost every day. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

You deserve a seat at the table. Younger women who are newer to their career tend to overcompensate in many ways merely to justify their “spot at the table”—but that’s not necessary. Show up with your hard work, creative ideas and enthusiasm. Being a powerhouse doesn't mean you need to ooze excess power over others (I've been guilty of this in the past!). Be firm in your thoughts, actions and ideas, though not aggressive, and this will take you very far.  

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to not internalize when figures of authority or power (predominantly men) give dry or condescending responses. I have spent so much energy overcompensating and being extra bubbly when I felt shut down by men giving short, dry responses and having a lack of positive energy. I've been able to save myself from burnout by matching the energy that surrounds me, whereas in the past I’d feel hurt and exhausted as a result of spending my energy and enthusiasm on people who didn't need it or care to reciprocate it. Save your passion and enthusiasm for a team that matches that energy. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Within the next 5 years I hope to see significant advancements in women's health. We still need permission from male partners to be able to make decisions on our reproductive choices. I would also like to see women's health taken more seriously and spoken about more openly on social media. This has significantly improved with platforms like TikTok, where women can (and do) share their experiences in healthcare—thereby helping other women feel comforted knowing they're not alone or even get the confidence needed to either get a second opinion or vouch for themselves to be taken seriously.

Paula Velandia, Head of Data US

Atlanta, Georgia

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

7 Months.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

It is a reminder of how powerful we are—our voice, our work, our achievements, our power to create and innovate! It is also a way to show the world how important equal pay is and that it must be considered in multiple scenarios

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Dolores Huerta.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

The writer Isabel Allende and the visual artist Elisa Insua. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

Be as independent as you can. Also, be curious and question everything.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Empathy, kindness and having fun in everything you do are key to succeeding.  

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

I hope to see a world where abortion is legal, pay is equal, and there is no more gender and race discrimination.

Tamika Johnson, Associate Director of Talent

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

2.5 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

Women have always played an essential role in shaping history. Our accomplishments are often ignored or erased. During WHM, we celebrate the women whose courage and intellect have pushed our society towards a more equal union—women like Constance Baker Motley, Jean Fairfax, Elaine Jones, Mary Hamilton, Katherine Carper Sawyer and Sheila Holt-Orsted. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Harriett Tubman.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Viola Davis.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Black girl, you are beautiful, you are magical, you are worthy, you are strong, you are who you are and no one will ever be like you. Love yourself, use your voice, protect your heart, and always move past the negative because as a Black woman, you are more than what anyone thinks or says.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Love yourself, being a young Black woman is unique and you have a story to tell. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Leadership in every part of the world, women's rights, equality and freedom.

Zamira Khamidova, Director of Data, NAMER

Toronto, Canada

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

Almost 15 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

A time to celebrate the incredible work of amazing women who fight for equity and inclusion.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Viola Davis.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Anna Razumovskaya.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Don't be shy to show off your skills, even if you think you have them less than 100%. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be more bold, you deserve what you are asking for!

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

More women at the leadership or board level. At the moment, there is still disparity there.

Zumzum Khan, Digital Analytics Project Lead

Vancouver, Canada

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

Almost a year and a half.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

To celebrate the contributions women have made in this society to make this a better world to live in.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Marie Curie and Margaret Thatcher.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Rupi Kaur and Fatima Farheen Mirza.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Believe in yourself. Don't compare your struggles with others. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Over the years, I have grown as a person, both in my professional and personal life. Though now I am more carefree in letting go of relationships that bring toxicity in my life, I wish I had this courage when I was younger. This would have saved me from unnecessary stress and anxiety. :) 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Life looks very different for women in some parts of the world. In certain countries, girls do not have the right to education, let alone leave the house. Western society has come a long way and ascertained that women have the right to vote, to education, and to equal opportunities, but in other parts of the world women are still striving for basic rights. I want to see every girl have the right to education and the right to make decisions about her own life.

Marcela Angeles Group Creative Director

Juarez, México

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

5 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

A reminder that there is still a lot to do for women's rights.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Malala Yousafzai.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

The photojournalist Ami Vitale. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

You deserve to be where you are. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

I hope to see a close in the gender gap in advertising.

Susana Dueñas, Associate Creative Director

Juarez, México

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

5 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

To raise awareness around the inequality that still persists between women and men.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Frida Kahlo.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Jessica Walsh.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Never settle, always speak your mind.

What advice would you give your younger self?

You are right to feel uncomfortable with certain actions—find out why.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

One day, I hope to be part of a team with 50% women and 50% men.

Amaya Martínez, Account Lead 

Mexico City, Mexico 

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

2.6 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

It symbolizes the fight and resilience women have had throughout the years. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Ruth Bader Ginsburg. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

Speak up, keep your head up high, study and be well-prepared for what may come. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

You're doing great. Stop putting so much pressure on yourself, keep up the hard work and results will come your way. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Enough self-confidence to truly believe they can do it all, because we can.

Kris Biti, Head of Growth Operations, APAC

Singapore

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

5.5 Years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

A celebration of how far we've come and how much we still need to do. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Corazon Aquino, the 11th president of the Philippines. She was the first female president of the Philippines. As president, Aquino oversaw the drafting of the 1987 Constitution, which limited the powers of the presidency and re-established the bicameral Congress, successfully removing the previous dictatorial government structure.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Marina Abramović, the OG performance artist. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

Speak up for yourself as well as for fellow women when they aren't in the room.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don't take “no” for an answer.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Greater representation in the boardroom!

Vera Cvetkovic, VP Enterprise Consulting

Toronto, Canada

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

3+ years.  

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

Celebrating past and present accomplishments of women, while planning for the future. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Indira Gandhi.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Marina Abramović.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Believe in yourself. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don't worry, everything is going to be alright.  

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

More leadership roles.

Nada Nassar, Associate Creative Director

Dubai

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

One and a half years. 

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

Honoring women's contribution throughout history and contemporary society.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Maya Angelou and Nawal El Saadawi. 

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Yayoi Kusama and Sarah Bahbah.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Don't be afraid to use your voice and take up space. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Believe in yourself and your talent. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Significant progress in gender equality and women's empowerment.

Munas, van Boonstra, Managing Director, Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

1 year.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

For a very long time, women have fought for rights, equality, justice and fairness. This month is a massive reminder of how much women have progressed and a celebration of all the women who have historically fought for us to be where we are today—women that set precedents and changed the world.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Margaret Thatcher.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Oprah Winfrey.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Every single person can contribute towards changing the world, no matter how small the contribution.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Have no fear, speak up and speak out. Every little bit of positive change is a step forward.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

That 50% of senior leaders are women.

Emma Cunningham, Senior Copywriter

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

9 months.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

I believe it's not only a time to celebrate the underrepresented gender, but also a month dedicated to reflecting on the often-overlooked contributions of women in our country's history.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

As a writer, I'm very inspired by the words of Maya Angelou.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

One of my great friends currently makes the most stunning ceramics using elements from the earth out of her home in Topanga! I love using her mugs and bowls for breakfast to start my day. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

If there’s even one bone in your body that wants to travel or a desire that needs to be explored, do it. Solo travel as a female has allowed me to learn so much about myself and the world. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

You cannot be everywhere and have everything. Learn to make the right choices and commit to the things and the people that matter most.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

That rights to bodily autonomy be restored and protected forever.

Rebecca Harbick, Copywriter

Singapore

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

4 years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

It means educating myself more on the fight for gender equality in all parts of the world. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Rosalind Franklin. She was central to the study and discovery of the DNA molecule, yet her efforts were largely overshadowed by the men who worked with her. She never got due credit for her work during her lifetime—in my studies as a biology undergraduate, she was the first spark that prompted me to think more about the treatment of women in history.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Chanda Prescod-Weinstein, who is a non-binary author and cosmologist.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Find your voice early and take up space, because no one will hand it to you. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

You have something to contribute. You don't have to just float through life thinking you have nothing important to give to the world.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

There's so much that's wrong with the world and a lot of it starts at the very top. I want to see more women world leaders so we can make top-down change.

Asma Hashmi, Junior Salesforce Developer

Pakistan

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

1 year.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

To me, it does not mean raising a banner and going out on the roads for women's marches. Rather, this month is about celebrating the great women whose lives have become a sign of inspiration—not only for women but also for men.

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

The Pakistani novelist and playwright Bano Qudsia.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Muniba Mazari, who is not only the National Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women Pakistan, but also a motivational speaker, artist, and TV host.

What advice would you share with younger women?

First, be a trendsetter, not a trend follower. Second, accept yourself the way you are. Third, get to know yourself first, and then the world will get to know you. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Learn to let things go, make yourself a priority, and never give up as this is not an option. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Follow your dreams, this is the number one goal every woman should set.

Ali Beisbier, Motion Designer

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

I’ve been with Cashmere for almost 20 months!

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

It’s a time when women finally get the recognition they deserve. It hurts because it feels like people are obligated to do so during this month, but then tend to forget about it the rest of the year…But any recognition for women is good, so I’ll take it!

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Maya Angelou.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Maylee Mouse.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Learned submissiveness is something you can unlearn. Don’t be afraid to speak louder than the men. Don’t be anxious to speak your mind and stick to your opinions. Your voice matters!

What advice would you give your younger self?

Take a dang compliment! ? You are talented and you matter.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Roe v. Wade part 2—I just want other people’s hands OFF our bodies.

Susan Parker, Executive Creative Director

San Francisco, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

4+ years.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

A reminder that the status quo is not a mandate. It takes a lot of energy to make change, but it can be done—and it has been done!

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Julia Child. She had a love of learning and shared that with others. She was strong-willed, and followed her passion.

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

Iris Apfel. She has a style all her own and doesn't bow to other people's ideas of career, fashion and age.

What advice would you share with younger women?

Ask for what you're worth, not what you think you'll get.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Use more sunscreen and worry less. It'll all be fine.

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Run the world. More Jacinda Arderns, please.

Alla Arutcheva, Senior Copywriter 

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

9 months.

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

Paying homage to the women who paved the way for us. 

Who is a historical figure in women's history that inspires you?

Anne Lister (also known as Gentleman Jack). 

Who is a woman creator/artist that you are currently loving?

King Princess. 

What advice would you share with younger women?

Seek mentors and mentees. There is so much to learn from each other's experiences. AND be sure to make room for everyone at the table. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

You'll find your tribe when you're true to yourself. 

What do you hope to see women accomplish in the next 5 years?

Close the wage gap and see more female creative leadership in advertising.

Practical and realistic advice that centered on the responsibility of executives now to create professional settings and a culture that helps women thrive. Support like providing fertility benefits that enable women to prioritize their careers early and feel more comfortable putting off family planning decisions until later in life. Advice and recommendations that actually empower women to climb the ladder, change their minds and rethink what “having it all” really means. 

That being said, it takes everyone’s support to make meaningful changes like these. As my colleague (and an all around amazing person), Jess Davey put it:

I just passed my fifth year at Media.Monks, and watching the company grow from 800 to 9,000+ in that time has included a number of personal career milestones for me as a woman. I’ve had the opportunity to see more women appointed to our executive team, work firsthand with emerging leaders inspired to drive initiatives that empower other women, and watched our People team evolve and implement surveys and DE&I efforts to better track and understand our progress. I’ve also built my own team, full of women who continue to push us (and me) in new (better) directions. A few of these women on my team are behind this year’s International Women’s Day, during which we’ll host a day of content, connected under the theme “Engage with Equity,” as I recently shared with The Drum.

Around the world, we’ll be taking the day to celebrate and uphold the contributions of some of the women from across S4 Capital. Our global programming includes a panel discussion with members from our Executive Leadership Team and our Global General Counsel, presented by Jess Clifton, who also supports our women year-round through her initiative “Women Connect.” We've invited everyone from the Women Connect community to submit questions and videos in advance to keep the conversation dynamic and personal—and to foster those one-to-one connections and conversations that I think set us apart. 

Our event will be streamed around the world on our internal video platform, the Shift, and our local offices are putting on viewing parties and other activities to uniquely reflect the women in their communities. But as we spend the day focused on women, the hope is everyone will show up. Jordan Cuddy captured this sentiment, as she so often does, in a post on LinkedIn: “Ideally more men would show up to support the women sharing their experiences. Get comfy with being a little uncomfy. And think about how they can be more aware, more supportive. True allyship is demonstrated by taking action to support minorities, even when that action might affect one’s status, wallet, time or access. Show up for the women this month.”

As part of our IWD programming, we’ll feature speakers from across many different teams, disciplines and countries around the world for “Take 10,” a set of mini-presentations, including: Jordan Cuddy on “How to F*cking Sell,” Aisha Bean on “Leaving a Leadership Legacy,” Nimo Awill and Tash Rosehill on “The Workplace as a Safe Space,” Luciana Haguiara on “10 Tips to Be a Great Creative Leader” and Jess Davey on “Being a Woman is a Superpower.”

One of the best parts of my job is acting as an editor for all the stories our team produces every day just like these. We get to amplify the most exciting bits and on days like today, and then take a moment to reflect on all we’ve achieved—as a team, and collectively as a company. My colleague Charlotte Mceleny reinforced  the importance of these efforts at New Digital Age:

So for today, here’s to the women at Media.Monks making headlines, setting new paths… and owning it… right now. With that I’ll leave you with one more (...much more punchy) line from Jess: “If women could fix this sh*t on their own, we would have already. It has to be a partnership in continuing to drive transformation and change.”

While we know February as Black History Month in the United States and Canada (the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Ireland have similar observations in October), its precursor was Negro History Week in the US, initiated on February 7, 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent Black Americans of the time. The second week of February was chosen because it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both of which were already celebrated by Black communities across the country. Today, we devote the entire month to commemorate, celebrate and honor the African diaspora and Black history—our history. Read more about the origins of Black History Month at the ASALH.

Black History Month is a time to look back on a history that affects—and was affected by—all of us. A time to remember and honor the people who have gone before us, to recognize the progress that’s been made in the ongoing struggle for racial justice—and to educate ourselves on all that is left to do.

At Media.Monks we operate under people-centric values that empower our employees to build, innovate and work together as one team—where everyone belongs and everyone has a voice.  For us, treating people as they want to be treated, encouraging others to raise their voices and working together to complement our differences fosters an environment where everyone feels heard. To that end, we support our employees in creating community groups (CGs) that recognize and celebrate our unique identities and affinities and create space for employees to celebrate and share common life experiences. Our CGs have an unparalleled impact and make up the fabric of our company's culture. Melanin.Monks is one of our groups, providing a space for exploring and understanding the Black diaspora while offering support and mentorship to our Black workforce.

In recognition of Black History Month, members of our DE&I Team, in conjunction with Melanin.Monks, have come together to reflect on the continuing history of Black excellence.

Quiana Haynes, Associate Account Manager

Tampa, Florida

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 1 year and 8 days

What Black History Month means to me:

Black History Month means the absolute world to me. It is the month I was born in (2/2) and it's the month I celebrate and educate myself on our history. Graduating from one of the best HBCUs, Florida A&M University, I was able to surround myself with individuals who looked like me who wanted to succeed and continue to learn more about our history.

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The significance of this title is that it captures everyone's definition and traditions of Black history and the legacy we continue to build.

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

It differs because it is factual and cultural.

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

In 5th grade when I sat in my classroom full of other kids who didn't look like me watch the Obama's Inauguration. This moment gave me hope that I, too, can achieve anything I put my mind to no matter what.

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

Jim Crow, because I would not be where I am today without them. The Jim Crow laws were state and local laws enforcing racial segregation in the Southern United States. The post-World War II era saw an increase in civil rights activities in the African American community, with a focus on ensuring that Black citizens were able to vote. This ushered in the civil rights movement, resulting in the removal of Jim Crow laws.

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

Food is my love language. Food has also created many monumental moments in Black history, from braiding rice into our hair for food during slavery to grounding corn to make grits. I will forever be grateful for Black food inventions and recipes that I could never live without.

A. Jay Johnson -  Senior Strategist

Brooklyn, New York

I’ve been with Media.Monks since: 

I joined Cashmere Agency in February 2022.

What Black History Month means to you?

I try to celebrate Black history and futures on a continuous basis. But Black History Month is a beautiful way to compel non-Black folks to think about all the brilliant things we have done for the world, particularly as social media and the education system frequently fail us. 

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title:

“Black History/Our History” is important because it shows the love, excitement and pride we have for our history. We have to claim it. 

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

Black history is not just a part of America's history, it is America's history. The country was built off the backs of my ancestors, by my ancestors, or stolen. 

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

The Black Panther Party has had a massive influence on me, personally and professionally. As a community organizer and activist, I’m always trying to promote and educate about the benefits of mutual aid and collective care movements. The Black Panther Party exemplifies both the strength of our community and how effective these programs can be. They laid the blueprint through projects like the Free Food Program, Free Breakfast Program, Health Clinic, Seniors Against a Fearful Environment (SAFE)—assisting elderly folks to their destination safely - and many others.

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

Connected to my last answer, I'd say that the most profound moment from Black History in the US is the creation of the Black Panther Party and its subsequent movement. Their incredible vision, resilience and resolve enabled their core mission to spread across every corner of the country—and all before the advent of the internet and social media.

Describe (if you have one) a moment in your family's story that can serve as an inspirational Black history moment. 

When my grandfather retired from the US Army in 1970 and went to work for NASA for the next twenty years. This was inspirational as he was one of a select few Black men to work at NASA over that time. 

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

I strive to celebrate Blackness every day of the year, and Black History month will be no different. I will continue to take every opportunity to educate myself and others on our history, be intentional about how I represent myself and my community, and support those who are on their way to creating a brighter future

Johanna Lubin, Creative Producer

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

Almost 3 years

What Black History Month means to you?

It's an opportunity to reflect and celebrate past accomplishments along with a reminder we have a lot more to do! 

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

It brings us all together. No matter who you are, we can all shape Black history! 

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

When Ketanji Brown Jackson was nominated to the Supreme Court last year! By being the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court, she is showing every Black woman that with resilience, anything is possible! 

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

As an immigrant coming from France, Martin Luther King's “I Have a Dream” speech will always be one of the most profound moments that resonate with me—it was such a defining moment of the civil rights movement!

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

It's an all-year-long celebration for me by supporting Black-owned businesses; supporting incredible Black Women like Ketanji Brown Jackson, Stacey Abrams, Kamala Harris, Bozoma Saint John, etc.; and making sure to work with as many Black and crew members of color as possible.

Aaron Parrish-Dean, Fellow

Atlanta, Georgia

I’ve been with Media.Monks since: 

April 2022

What Black History Month means to you?

The blueprint to world evolution: technological advancement, upgrade in consciousness, character development.

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

In order for us to not only reach our destination but decide exactly where we want to go, we must understand where we’ve come from and how that affects where we are now. Our history is the “why” to many questions—both answered and neglected. Ultimately, the significance is everything because there would be no explanation for our being—let alone anything to explain. Imagine how detrimental that would be to society (on a global scale).

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

Firstly, I believe that Black history directly impacts American history and not the other way around, which intimidates the American education system from adequately teaching its students not only the horrors of Black oppression and genocide, but the magnitude of Black contributions that went on to disrupt the world as they knew it, multiple times. Lastly, Black history doesn’t begin or end with America; it’s so much bigger than this country.

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

February 14, 1867. The founding of Augusta Institute (which would later be renamed to Morehouse College) is everything to me and my life, and I owe it such.

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

The Horse in Motion (1878). The first ever motion picture starred a Black man named G. Domm. The majority of people aren’t even aware of this fact. However, Jordan Peele popularized this moment in his film Nope (2022). I think this is the most profound moment in US Black history because it displays the blatant love/hate relationship America has with us since the invention of the motion picture. We’re thrown in front of cameras and adored, but despised in everyday life.

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

I don’t. I celebrate Black history every day by trying to become the best version of myself, indulging in Black ideologies and educating myself on those who’ve left their mark before me. Intentionally deriving my inspiration from these people is how I plan to incorporate their efforts with each and every way I create an impact and leave my legacy. That’s how I celebrate Black history.

Angelica George, Social Strategist 

Atlanta, Georgia

I’ve been with Media.Monks for: 

I’ve been at Media.Monks as a full-time employee since October of 2022. I initially started at Media.Monks as an intern in July and was later hired for a full-time role.  

What Black History Month means to you?

Black History Month means so much to me as an opportunity to learn and inform. This month's importance is beyond measurable to me. To know the sacrifice and dedication it took for this month to exist and the resilience of the community is incomparable. I always do my best to highlight individuals as well as be an active participant in helping others be open to learning. 

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The significance of that title stands on the truth! The truth is that though the month may be labeled as Black history, it truly is the history that shapes every part of the world’s history and should be acknowledged as that. No one can get rid of Black history because it’s woven into every single piece of history. 

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

Black history is American history and beyond. I can’t say it differs other than it being glossed over in the school system. In any significant moment that’s considered “American history,” Black people and Black history are part of that moment as well. The Black history stories aren’t always told, but they show up in every moment of history. 

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

It’s so many moments that have shaped and influenced my entire being. I attended a historically Black university, Clark Atlanta University. Having the opportunity to attend an HBCU is an undeniable and unexplainable experience. Those years at that beautiful institution taught me so much beyond books and assignments. 

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

The most profound moment from Black history in the US is tough to choose. For me personally, I’ll say the election of President Barack Obama. This moment holds significance as a whole because it was something that was rooted in positivity, a glimmer of hope. It was at a time when I was old enough to truly understand race relations in this world, and it made the impossible feel real. 

Describe (if you have one) a moment in your family's story that can serve as an inspirational Black history moment. 

My family is inspirational because of their resilience. My mother was born in the 50s and she lived through the civil rights movement. She has had experiences that most won’t understand. Despite being present in those times, she still persevered. My grandmother was a beautician and was able to own her own shop. My family's rich legacy is a testament to resilience. 

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

I honestly do my best to celebrate Black history every day. Whether it’s me personally learning new information about our history, sharing new information that others may not be privy to, but also enjoying the fact we deserve celebration. Black History Month gives us that designated time when essentially everyone has to pay attention, so I do my best to show up on social, attend events, and highlight contributions.

Devon Anderson, Senior Art Director

Dallas, Texas

I’ve been with Media.Monks since: 

I joined Cashmere Agency in August 2022.

What Black History Month means to you?

It's a celebration of everything that makes us great, not only celebrating the past but the amazing things happening in Black culture today and all the ways we're building towards the future. It's about honoring the Black artists, scholars, activists, world-changers and making sure their visions continue to move not only Black people forward, but the entire world.

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title:

The words "our history" make me think about the weight of everything we've had to endure and all of the incredible things we've built, even while carrying that burden. Black people are truly roses from concrete, succeeding and thriving in a world designed for us to fail.

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

It doesn't at all—you can't tell American history without the Black people who came here and physically built America as we know it today. Every chapter of American history was moved forward by Black people, from the slaves who came here by ship, to the academics and scholars that moved science and laws forward, to the tastemakers and culture creators that define our modern society today.

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

I was very new to the industry when the George Floyd protests of 2020 hit, and in a lot of ways it completely broke me. To feel the ever-present fear of knowing that could happen to me or any of my loved ones, to the wild range of responses from my non-Black coworkers and peers. It really made me sit back and evaluate what it means to be a professional and a human being, and put into perspective everything that we do in this industry. I think in a lot of ways, it directly led me to prioritize purpose and culture-driven work, and to never neglect the human being that is behind every professional.

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

When we think of profound moments from Black history, the most iconic moment is the famous "I Have a Dream" speech, but I think an even more profound moment was the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. It's not the most positive and rosy answer, but I think it says a lot more about where we've been and where we are as a country.

The world looks to him now as a shining beacon of hope, a symbol of the ideal "post-racial society,” and even so, despite every effort to be peaceful, despite doing everything "the right way,” he still was gunned down. It serves as a microcosm of the catch-22 that Black people in America face. No matter whether you're peaceful or violent, kneeling on the ground or with a fist in the air, the oppressed cannot grant themselves freedom if the world is not ready for them to be free.

We as Black people can march and sing and protest all we want, but it takes all of us, the entire country, to believe that Black people and all people of color deserve liberation. We must be truly united in the vision of a world in which every person can live equally, equitably and freely, and until we do, we still have a long way to go towards achieving the utopia that Dr. King dreamed about.

Describe (if you have one) a moment in your family's story that can serve as an inspirational Black history moment. 

Just this past weekend, my great-grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday. Being able to hear her talk about the things she's seen and lived through in her time, and seeing every generation of family come together and celebrate our oldest living relative, was a wonderful thing to be a part of.

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

Year-round!

Jovonna Palmer, HR Business Partner

Nashville, Tennessee

I’ve been with Media.Monks since: 

6 months

What Black History Month means to you?

Black History Month is an opportunity to highlight and honor the accomplishments of Black Americans throughout our history.

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The significance is to honor the contributions and legacy of Black/African Americans across our history and society.

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

Black history is rich in the fact that contributions have been made in the arts, science, technology, etc. However, the difference is that this information is not shared as much as traditional American history is shared. Black history should be celebrated more than just one month out of the year.

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

The year Barack Obama was elected president shaped my life in a way that change and progress were made. We as a country are still a work in progress, but I remain hopeful. 

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

The most profound moment from Black history in the US is the year Barack Obama was elected president. This event shaped my thinking in that we were making strides in becoming a better country. Seeing and loving people for their work and character vs. the color of their skin was great progress.

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

I celebrate Black History Month by attending and supporting various Black-owned businesses and the arts.

Kaaya Allotey, Senior Strategist

Los Angeles, California

I’ve been with Media.Monks since: 

I’ve been at Cashmere for over 2 years! Since December 2020.

What Black History Month means to you?

When I think of Black History I always go back to the Ghanaian principle of Sankofa, which means “go back to the past and bring forward that which is useful.” In essence, it speaks to the importance of learning from your roots, history and culture as a guide for steps building the future. This is especially important for us as Black Americans as so much of our history has been (and unfortunately continues to be) buried, erased, and misrepresented. 

The title of this piece is “Black History/Our History.” Describe the significance of that title.

The title Black History/Our History signals the power that we as Black Americans have during this month to take full ownership over our representation and reclaim our narrative. As previously mentioned, so much of our history has been (and continues to be) misrepresented, skewed, and erased by others. Black History/Our History our time to challenge these misrepresentations and remind others (and ourselves) of our influence and resilience.

How does Black history differ from traditional American history?

First thing first, Black history is American history. Let's make sure that’s super, super clear. Black Americans have literally built the economic infrastructure and culture of this country from the ground up so it is extremely frustrating that we have to constantly issue the reminder that our history is central to American history. In terms of the Black American experience, there’s no denying that we’ve had (and continue) to endure much more than our fair share of hate and systemic oppression here in the United States. Nevertheless, what is beautiful and Undeniably Dope™ about the Black American experience is that we still manage to be the blueprint for art, expression, style and culture even in the midst of it all. I love that about us.

What moment in Black history has influenced your career or life, or resonates with you?

I’ve been so inspired by the ascension of West African culture/appreciation into Black American culture that has happened over the last several years. As the daughter of a Black American Baltimorean and a Ghanaian-American immigrant, I struggled to find my place in between two very distinct cultures. It is the best thing ever to see those two worlds that I previously thought of as super separate, collide in ways that I would have never imagined. From the massive success of Afrochella (now known as Afro Future Fest) to Virgil Abloh bringing traditional Kente cloth to Louis Vuitton runways, it’s clear that the future of Black representation has ample diasporic synergy.

What do you think is the most profound moment from Black history in the US? Why did you choose this event?

The racial reckoning that followed the murder of George Floyd is something that will forever mark a seismic shift in the zeitgeist that Black American experience is validated. Previous to this time in culture, race was such a sensitive, opt-in-as-you-choose type of discussion. So many different ideas, histories, controversies that blatantly had racial undertones were largely unacknowledged or just broadly referred to as racist–or at least questionably so. There was very little nuance in these conversations that were happening at an interracial level and/or on large-scale platforms. Now, it is so much more commonplace for topics like bias, privilege, anti-Blackness etc. to be a part of the conversation. We have a long way to go, but I can appreciate the progress.

Describe (if you have one) a moment in your family's story that can serve as an inspirational Black history moment. 

My grandfather, John Sidney Sheppard, was a walking piece of Black history that inspired me and hundreds of people in his 96 years of life. During the heart of segregation, not only did he attend high school (which was a feat in itself at the time) but went on to earn his bachelor’s from Bowie State University and his master’s from NYU. He was the most loyal alumnus I ever met of his high school and especially his undergraduate college, BSU, where he served as chairman of both the BSU Foundation and Board of Visitors, was a life member and two-time president of the BSU National Alumni Association, and was a member of the Sports Hall of Fame, along with several other in his lifetime. Ultimately, he was awarded the status of Historian Emeritus along with being recognized as the oldest, longest active alumni at BSU and had the honor of getting his high school gymnasium named after him for his decades of service. Amazingly, his community involvement hardly stopped with his schools as he was a president, chairman of the board, amongst many other capacities for the James Mosher Little League Association, and a founding member and former president of Zeus Inc., a Baltimore-based men’s social and civic club.  His love for his HBCU, along with his relentless commitment to community service, truly set the precedent for my education and commitment to community advancement in my work and social efforts.

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

As a cultural strategist, I use Black History Month as a platform to celebrate the legacy and lasting influence that Black Americans have made and continue to make in culture at large. Today more than ever we see that Black culture is popular culture, and Black history is a great time to celebrate and amplify that truth.

Who We Welcome

Our program has its roots in recruiting exceptional graduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). While we maintain a strong commitment to HBCU graduates, we are thrilled to expand our reach to include graduates from other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). We are committed to providing opportunities for early-career professionals looking to grow their expertise and develop the skills needed to thrive in advertising and marketing.

The Fellowship Experience

The S4 Fellowship Program is an immersive journey that accelerates professional growth through hands-on experience and mentorship. Fellows rotate across various teams, gaining exposure to different areas of marketing, creative, and technology services. They collaborate on major projects, work closely with industry professionals, and receive structured training to build a strong foundation for their careers. This approach ensures that each Fellow gains a comprehensive understanding of the business and its evolving landscape.

What it Means to Be a Fellow

Being a Fellow is similar to an apprenticeship—an opportunity for recent graduates and early-career professionals to gain full-time, entry-level experience while engaging in a structured development program. Fellows take on meaningful work across critical projects, client initiatives, campaigns, and productions, ensuring that their experience is dynamic, comprehensive, and impactful. While every Fellow’s journey is unique, the program is designed to provide a deep understanding of the evolving industry landscape.

Our Mission

The S4 Fellowship Program is committed to developing highly skilled, ambitious professionals who are ready to take on leadership roles in the industry. With a strong focus on innovation, problem-solving, and career development, the program offers extensive training, hands-on learning, and mentorship to set Fellows up for long-term success. Whether they continue their careers within our company or explore new opportunities, Fellows leave the program with the expertise and confidence to make a lasting impact in the field.

Exploring the Digital Advertising and Marketing Landscape

Throughout the program, Fellows will gain hands-on experience in key areas of digital advertising and marketing, developing a strong understanding of industry trends and brand strategies. The program is structured around four six-month rotations, allowing Fellows to work across various departments within marketing and technology services. These rotations are designed to align with business needs while providing exposure to different aspects of the industry.

Comprehensive Industry Experience

Monks offers a full range of marketing and technology services across eight core capabilities. The Fellowship program is designed to provide early-career professionals with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities needed to build a strong foundation in the industry. By working alongside experienced professionals, Fellows will gain valuable insights and practical skills that prepare them for long-term success in the field.

A Culture of Growth and Development

As Monks continues to evolve, so do our Fellows. The S4 Fellowship Program creates an environment where participants can grow, learn, and contribute meaningfully to the company’s success. Every rotation is thoughtfully structured to provide real-world experience and professional development opportunities. Fellows will collaborate with industry experts, take on impactful projects, and develop the skills needed to navigate the ever-changing advertising and marketing landscape.

Building the Future of Advertising

The goal of the program is to equip Fellows with the experience and knowledge to become future leaders in advertising and marketing. By working on innovative projects and engaging in continuous learning, Fellows will leave the program prepared to make meaningful contributions to the industry. Whether continuing their careers at Monks or pursuing new opportunities, they will be well-equipped to drive success and innovation in the field.

Stay Connected and Informed

To stay informed and never miss a beat, be sure to follow our company’s social media pages, where we’ll be sharing the latest updates and important information. If you have any questions or are interested in receiving updates about the S4 Fellowship Program in the future, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Fellowship@mediamonks.com!

Note: Duration of the fellowship may be subject to change at Monks' sole discretion, and is not a guaranteed term of employment.

Originally, Hispanic Heritage Week was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson—established by legislation sponsored by Representative Edward R. Roybal—to recognize the influence of Hispanic Americans on the history and culture of the United States. Twenty years later, Representative Esteban Edward Torres sponsored legislation to expand that week into a month, a law that President Ronald Reagan signed in 1988.

Hispanic identity is a broad spectrum, and the timing of Hispanic Heritage Month coincides with a series of significant events, milestones and achievements across the community. September 15 is the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores, when Roman Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued a call-to-arms that triggered the Mexican War of Independence. This war ended with the independence of not only modern-day Mexico, but also Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16; Chile celebrates theirs September 18. Finally, Indigenous People’s Day, which honors the Indigenous populations of the Americas, falls under Hispanic Heritage Month in October.

While Hispanic Heritage Month offers a moment to reflect and celebrate the diversity of our community, we’ve built our culture around people-centric values designed to promote a sense of belonging and empower our people each day. Part of fostering an environment of inclusion means encouraging people to raise their voices. To that end, we support the creation of community groups like the Cultura.Monks, some of whom you’ll meet below. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, they have come together to reflect on and celebrate the history of their communities.

Where are you located? 

Charlotte, North Carolina

How long have you been with Media.Monks?

Four months - I'm a newbie!

Tell us more about your role.

Embedded at Google, I support marketing efforts for Grow with Google through media planning and strategy. I work collaboratively to create advanced and holistic media plans to drive great brand/product awareness, content discoverability, viewership and ultimately conversion, resulting in a delightful user experience.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of extreme pride in my roots. This month represents and celebrates the resilience of all the people who sacrificed so much to leave their homes and chase a dream or a better life in this country. It means a celebration of merged races & cultures, resulting in so many beautiful people. It's a celebration of our roots, our homelands, our delicious food, our contagious music and everything else in between. The fact that Hispanic Heritage Month even exists is an honor. I am honored that my home country celebrates the contributions and impact of my fellow Latinos. 

What is a moment in history that has influenced your life or career, or that resonates with you?

As a Latina and first-generation American, the Obama election in 2008 will resonate with me forever. I was still a teenager at the time. Regardless of any political beliefs, seeing him win gave me hope. It inspired me to push boundaries and go further than the norm. He didn't only impact my life, but also inspired me in the professional realm. There have been MANY times throughout my career where I've been the only minority in the room.  It encouraged me to embrace all our cultural differences, because that's when we as a nation have the most positive impact. His impact on me was that through good, honest, hard work, you can essentially defeat all odds. It encouraged me that America was embracing change—in a good way. I wrote him a letter a couple of years ago detailing how he impacted me and my community—and I actually got a response back. His impact will resonate forever with me. 

Is there a Latinx or Latine leader, past or present, who inspires you?

Minerva Mirabal's life work was very inspiring to me. She was a political activist and one of the pioneers in the resistance movement against a corrupt dictator in the Dominican Republic in the 1950s. The UN observes International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on the 25th of November. The date marks the brutal assassination in 1960 of Minerva Mirabal, alongside her two sisters. There've been lots of great books and movies written about her—check out Julia Alvarez's (shout-out to her as well) "In the Time of the Butterflies." She's inspired me because of her courage and her tenacity: she dared to be brave in a man's world and actually made a difference. She was a mother and a family woman but still fought for her future and her country's. I think her story is super inspirational.

Where are you located?

Born, raised and currently reside in the San Fernando Valley, a suburb of Los Angeles.

How long have you been with Media.Monks (If you came from a merged company feel free to include your time there as well)?

I just completed my first incredible year at the company!

Tell us more about your role.

My official title is Retoucher/Designer. Every day is a new challenge (which I love), and the position gives me the opportunity to learn new methods and keep advancing my skills. 

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

As a first-generation Mexican American, It gives me the opportunity to reconnect with my upbringing and be able to share in my culture and history with my kids.

What is a moment in history that has influenced your life or career, or that resonates with you?

I would have to say it would be discovering punk rock music. It not only taught me to question everything and be open-minded, but also the idea that I can do things myself. There are no set of rules in life that you have to follow, and discovering what you can accomplish on your own or with a group of like-minded individuals really inspires me to try new things.

Is there a Latinx or Latine leader, past or present, who inspires you?

I have no single person that I can list, but my main inspirations are of course, my family and all the hard work they put in for my brothers and me to have a better life. I'm also inspired by those around me who are accomplishing big things and knocking out some goals. I'm a huge believer in supporting each other and being there for those that believe in you!

Where are you located?

Santa Clara, CA (Bay Area)

How long have you been with Media.Monks (If you came from a merged company feel free to include your time there as well)? 

I’ve been at Media.Monks (formerly Firewood Marketing) for eight and a half years and counting!

Tell us more about your role.

After spending over seven years supporting embedded digital media programs for Google, I transitioned to the “Buy Team” to co-lead the Google media team on the agency side (non-embedded team). I help support a group of talented media planners, media buyers, operation leads, and analysts to identify, develop, and execute the right media program across a myriad of Google product teams.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Personally, Hispanic Heritage Month means awareness to our roots—an opportunity to reflect and commemorate milestones and accomplishments of Hispanic Americans over the course of our history. Also, it’s very important to assess where we stand today and ask ourselves, “Who are our biggest influencers through politics, education, leadership?” And how can we continue our journey to mark an impact for Hispanic Americans and all minorities?

What is a moment in history that has influenced your life or career, or that resonates with you?

For anyone, I feel the impact of being a parent deeply shapes your life. For all that have worked with me, you know about Katheryn!  But career-wise, learning of my passion towards marketing was the pivotal point in my career. I started my tech career in sales, but shortly after I changed my focus towards marketing for its flexibility to not only “sell” but influence brands, decisions, and our everyday lives. 

Is there a Latinx or Latine leader, past or present, who inspires you?

Sylvia Mendez and her family, for helping set the stage for Brown vs. Board of Education in 1954. Civil rights activists Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta for their contributions to the farmworkers’ movement, immigration reform and various other legislative action campaigns. In sports, Jim Plunkett, the first Latino to win the Heisman Trophy in 1970, and Tom Flores, the first Latino starting quarterback in professional football, who later became the first Latino head coach in professional football. I admire them all for their great courage and tenacity to change minds and perspectives, and for setting course for future generations.

Where are you located? 

San Francisco

How long have you been with Media.Monks (If you came from a merged company feel free to include your time there as well)? 

Over two and a half years now, originally from Firewood.

Tell us more about your role. 

I'm the Associate Director for P&E Developer on the Google Media Team. I work across 15 or so product areas, aligning digital media strategy and process to ensure campaign success! I am also on the board for the Pride.Monks community group.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? 

While I'm not a fan of Hispanic as a name for the community, I appreciate this moment as a way to honor and celebrate the contributions of my community in the context of American and world history. On a more personal note, it's really important to showcase the diversity within the community. Like Pride.Monks, Cultura.Monks is full of people from different countries, backgrounds and traditions. It's really great to see that spectrum represented, especially during this month.

What is a moment in history that has influenced your life or career, or that resonates with you?

Rita Moreno EGOT-ing is one thing that comes to mind for me. It's a great celebration of what Latinx excellence looks like in pop culture, and I don't think we give her enough flowers. On the flipside of that, Selena getting memorialized in her own film was a significant moment for the culture! Even people who aren't Latinx know who she is because of that movie. I think that release marked a moment for me when I really felt my culture was being represented in an authentic way.

Is there a Latinx or Latine leader, past or present, who inspires you? 

Aside from the above icons, I think Frida Kahlo is a great example of Latinx excellence. I do photography on the side, and I'm inspired by Frida's magic realism point of view that comes from a uniquely Mexican POV. Frida is also a gender fluid queer icon, so I really appreciate the intersectionality of their impact.

In addition to making digital spaces like the metaverse accessible to audiences far and wide, it’s crucial that brands offer consumers a wide variety of representational features to facilitate self-expression and secure a sense of belonging. Online you can be whoever you want—the beauty of the internet is that it has long enabled people to self-present on their own terms, but it is up to the creators behind the scenes to provide consumers with the tools to do so. 

Why are representation and self-expression in the metaverse important?

To younger generations, real-life and digital identities are equally important. The first generation that grew up with digital avatars has now come of age, and digital experiences are pivotal to shaping their identity, our virtualization report highlights. In fact, 60% of Gen Z and 62% of Gen Y “believe that how you present yourself online is more important than how you present yourself IRL.”   

Digital platforms are important spaces for identity construction, and virtual-first brands can satisfy an audience’s desire to build identity by providing accessible, personalized experiences that enable self-expression. Movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #SayHerName, which have a standing both online and offline, are driven by identity and fuel the growth of social groups connected by shared beliefs, interests or experiences. Virtual-first brands that actively engage with such new, hybrid identities are able to foster a sense of belonging for diverse audiences.  

Beyond the element of fun, the metaverse can serve as a tool for empathy. Brands play an important part in determining the metaverse’s impact on consumers. The Ancient Greek philosopher Plato once said, “you learn more about a person in an hour of play than in a lifetime of conversation.” While we’re well into the 21st century, this statement is as valid today as it was back then. 

“The metaverse gives us a shared sense of space that you don't get through 2D experiences,” says Catherine D. Henry, SVP Growth, Metaverse & Innovation Strategy. “This medium enables intellectual and emotional connections that transcend our physical bodies, allowing us to experience (once again) the purity of relationships formed as children—when people connect over interests and shared play, rather than commonalities and socially imposed signifiers. This is truly liberating, and the reason why fantastical avatars and gender fluidity in the metaverse are so important.”

Through play, people can engage with others in a fun and meaningful way and learn to get along with their peers, as seeing others from a different point of view allows people to practice empathy, our Social Innovation Lab argues. Research shows that the embodied experience of inhabiting an avatar that is physically different from oneself can lead to behavioral changes that align with that avatar and influence someone’s self-perception, suggesting one can start to see overlap between the avatar and the self. “This is important because empathy and tolerance can be fostered in virtual environments, and help bridge the social divide created by Web2,” says Henry. “The missed opportunity for brands is not so much to have games, but now it’s more about amplifying authentic, often underrepresented voices and creating space for people to learn.” So, rather than an escape from real-world problems, virtual-first brands view digital as a tool to help solve them.

Besides all the perks, digital spaces also come with problems—that’s no secret. One thing to watch out for is (unconscious) biases of creators that limit representation and self-expression, such as customization options based on stereotypes and cultural appropriation, or exclusion of customization features that people want to use, like Black hairstyles. Even more worrisome is the issue that user behavior can go against expectations. Think of how some social media platforms are used as a tool to manipulate through fake news, or how online groups are weaponized to harbor hate groups—when they could serve as a refuge for those looking for belonging. However, the metaverse is a new digital chapter and thus presents new opportunities to do better. 

So, how do we achieve representation and self-expression in the metaverse? 

Diversify avatar use and customization. Given that in the US 48% of Gen Z consider themselves non-white and one-third of Gen Z identify outside the gender binary, providing a wide variety of representational features to facilitate self-expression and belonging is essential. This means offering a range of skin tones, choice of prosthetics, hairstyles, body shapes, voices, and so on. Another important step brands can take is to keep default avatars free or cheap, and only charge (more) money for additional differentiators, like a cool jacket. That said, features for self-presentation can go beyond physical characteristics to represent a more emotive sense of self-identity as well. Adidas, for instance, partnered with Ready Player Me to create unique avatars that are based on a person’s personality rather than their physical likeness, ensuring an authentic reflection of who they are. Above all, don’t force people to show up as themselves, but allow them to choose whatever they want their avatar to (re)present in the metaverse. 

As a brand, give user-makers the tools and get out of the way. It’s crucial not to constrain user-makers, since they’re the ones forging the future of how we use the metaverse—keeping in mind that we encourage brands to be transparent about how they monitor their users’ contributions to ensure the metaverse remains a safe space for everyone. That aside, brands can invest in education and work with influencers to market the tools they offer to DIY. Duolingo is a great example of a brand that has built assets for its users to create their own games, but then got out of the way. This circles back to the point of accessibility; we need to make sure as many creators from different walks of life as possible are included in the building process to counter biases.

Allow ways to gather and group for belonging. Digital environments offer a safe space for exploring identities—and to ensure safety, brands need to establish ethics and guidelines from the get-go. Online you can be whoever you want, so people tend to feel more confident to speak up. Fortunately, many people are able to bring something from that experience back to their real lives. For instance, people from the LBGTQ+ community were able to form community support systems within social VR—and for some, this offered the only form of support as they weren’t able to access any offline. This combination of a supportive community and the embodied avatar experience empowers many in the real world and helps them understand their identities better.  

In all, the whole engine behind the metaverse world must be diversified. From executives and employees who work at the companies making the metaverse, to decision-makers at brands creating experiences in the metaverse, owners of digital environments, and influencers and user-makers—the metaverse is for everyone, so everyone should be able to contribute a building block. The issue is, many people don’t know how.

In the same vein, looking at the expected influence and impact of the metaverse, brands can integrate metaverse strategies into their ESG commitments—the possibilities to diversify are endless. 

How does this all come back to the real world?

Digital behavior inspires real-world change, that’s a fact. Conversations that take place in the metaverse expand out into other spaces, such as meet-ups, talk shows and other real-life events. In a digital environment like the metaverse, we’re able to meet people from around the world that we would’ve otherwise never met and actually get to know them on a deeper level. Some may just see avatars, but we see people who are willing to be their authentic selves in connecting with others. 

“People are more willing to be open, vulnerable and their real selves when, ironically, they're not actually in person and when they’re behind an avatar, so people have more ‘real’ experiences connecting with somebody that in real life they wouldn’t have ended up talking to,” says Susan Parker, Executive Creative Director. “And then they might take it outside the metaverse.”