What happens when you combine the genius of Ryan Reynolds, David Griner (Adweek's International Editor and Host of the Adweek Podcast), and Dionna Dorsey Calloway (Founder of District of Clothing)?

Together, they co-founded an incredible nonprofit called The Creative Ladder, focused on making creative industries more reflective of the communities they serve, while connecting, inspiring and elevating a new generation of creative leaders.

Today, I am honored to speak with Dionna about the launch of The Creative Ladder, its mission, and more importantly, how we can ALL play a part in changing the future of the creative industry together.

Episode Partner: This episode is presented by Feathr. Feathr is trusted by nonprofits of all shapes and wing-spans — from the Humane Society and Meals on Wheels to IJM and the American Epilepsy Society, plus over a thousand more! Don’t rely on magic to hit your goals next year. Use Feathr to elevate your digital marketing campaigns and grow impact in 2023.

Join me and Noah Barnett on January 26th for a free webinar, all about creating effective re-engagement campaigns. Click here to register.

In This Episode:

• How a chance invitation to Adweek’s Brandweek led Dionna to connect with Ryan Reynolds and David Griner
• Dionna shares a behind the scenes look at what it was like to launch The Creative Ladder at the Cannes Film Festival
• The power of intimate events and why The Creative Ladder focused on these tracks at their bootcamp: Advancement, Authenticity, and Focus
• How we can help recruit the next generation of creative talent from underrepresented communities
• Why having a strong sense of self leads to maximum creative output
• The importance of making connections (including how I landed a senior position at a top PR agency through a LinkedIn message!)

Resources & Links

Check out The Creative Ladder and follow them on Instagram at @creativeladderorg, along with their sister organization, Group Effort Initiative. And see what co-founder Ryan Reynolds wants you to know about his nonprofit in this short video.

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This show is presented by LinkedIn for Nonprofits. We’re so grateful for their partnership. Explore their incredible suite of resources and discounts for nonprofit teams here, including up to 50% off LinkedIn hiring tools.

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