Rebecca K. Roussell, M.S.’s Post

Heading to the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and looking for some interesting people to connect with? Or not going and looking for some interesting content to follow…? Here are my top tips of people to follow and/or connect with: ⭐️ Chloe Davies is the CEO of It Takes A Village Collective and co-founder of Join Our Table - A space to celebrate Black British women. She’s that rare thing: both a #DEI champion and expert. She’s steering a whole raft of incredible events that are definitely worth catching. ⭐️ Myles Manyonda is the hugely talented strategy director at Lucky Generals and is up for ‘Strategist of the Year’ sponsored by Simply Thought 💭 at The Pros Awards 2024 supported by Google UK. He’s heading to Cannes as part of Cephas Williams’ incredible The Black Network movement and is another one worth connecting with. (Personally, I can’t wait to read his takes). ⭐️ Word on the Curb’ CEO and COO (and dynamic duo co-founders) Ndubuisi Uchea and Hayel Wartemberg are heading back to Cannes for a second year. The inclusive marketing experts will be speaking at some events and are definitely worth catching live. Not going to be at Cannes? They always provide great LinkedIn content so follow them already! 😊 (FYI: they’re also up for a bunch of awards at The Pros Awards 2024! 🥳). ⭐️ ETA: I just spotted Google’s B2B comms mgr Jo Ogunleye is over at Cannes too! 🥰🤩😍 Don’t know Jo? 🤯Where’ve you been? 🤔 Aren’t connected to Jo? 🤯 What’s wrong with you? 🤔 Correct that now. 🙃 Anyone I’ve missed? Drop them in the comments. (Psst! How do you pronounce ‘Cannes’…? Asking for a friend. 🙃) #CannesLionsInternationalFestivalOfCreativity #CannesLions #Cannes #RepresentationMatters

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity countdown is ON, and I am so excited to attend for the first time! I am attending: ✔ Self-funded (no sponsors or cohorts) ✔ I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T (no company or agency affiliations) in my Webby voice. (IYKYK) This industry experience started with a split decision and a lot of planning! Last year while sitting in on a virtual "Cannes Recap" at my former agency, I was desperately uninspired by the report back. Last year there was so much culture to be experienced and shared back to aspiring advertising talent young and old (which would have proven inspirational and educational for the entire agency), including the induction of Spike Lee as the first ever Creator Maker of the Year. Yet, not a sentence about culture, DEI, or diverse initiatives. As the national #ERG lead for Onyx, I was embarrassed and as a Black employee, I was disappointed. Fueled by my desire to know more and experience Cannes for myself, and with the help of some close colleagues hyping me up in the Teams chat, I decided before the 60-minute event concluded that I would get to Cannes in 2024 to curate the experience I desired....and I am 2 days out! For those not going and feeling FOMO, I will be sharing my hot takes from culture-shifters in the industry but use this post as motivation and as a CTA to start planning your Cannes 2025 RIGHT NOW! Support is always great so be ready to apply for initiatives like The Black Network and Cannes Can: Diversity Collective next year. However, my PSA for life (career opps included): don't wait for anyone to pick you, send you, or get you where you need and deserve to go! Who else is going? Let's meet IRL. (The first timers What's App is LIT!) #diversityinadvertising #powermoves #inclusiveadvertising #DEIisNotDead #BlackCreatives #representationmatters #seeitbelieveit #timingandpositioning

Creating events that celebrate diversity can pose challenges that could result in accidental insensitivity. 😣 From engaging with members of the culture from inception to execution and customizing the event to generate a welcoming atmosphere, check out my blog post for tips on how to build cultural events that honor our differences and foster real connections!

In launching "Community to Commerce: Building Wealth Through Travel," I'm excited to bring a significant conversation to the forefront, especially as we celebrate Black Heritage Month. This series isn't just another set of online meetings; it's a purpose-driven initiative aimed at empowering Black travelers and #entrepreneurs with actionable insights, strategies, and stories of success from within our community and beyond. The travel industry is witnessing an unprecedented shift, with a growing emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. It's an important moment for Black travel professionals to lead and innovate. To navigate this landscape, we've curated a panel of seasoned experts who are reshaping the industry through their unique lenses and strategies. Our speakers include: ➡ Kelton McMillon, who will explore leveraging credit for cost-effective travel solutions; ➡ Natalie Peralta, discussing the ins and outs of international real estate investment; ➡ Anisett Jacques-Willis, revealing the intricacies of product development in the travel space; ➡ Derrick Akinyanju, focusing on the power of narrative in brand building; and ➡ Johnnell Bragg, offering insights into the latest digital marketing strategies to enhance audience engagement. This session isn't just about sharing knowledge; it's about creating a community where Black travelpreneurs can find support, inspiration, and actionable strategies. ➡ Join us for this free virtual conversation, by registering at the link: https://lnkd.in/gu8g2K4A #blackheritagemonth #blackhistorymonth #blacktravelgo #blacktravel #blackintech

The Benefits and Advantages of Partnering and Sponsoring Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic Events and ActivitiesIn today's globalized world, businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of connecting with diverse audiences. One effective way to achieve this is by partnering and sponsoring events and activities that cater to Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

Events have been a part of human #culture since the beginning of time. They have played a crucial role in shaping and influencing various aspects of society, including #traditions, #beliefs, and #values. While events are often seen as a temporary gathering, they have a lasting impact on culture beyond their historical significance. One way events #influence culture is through the creation and preservation of traditions. Many events, such as #festivals and ceremonies, are rooted in cultural traditions and are passed down from generation to generation. These events not only celebrate the past but also reinforce cultural values and beliefs, ultimately shaping the way people live and interact with each other. Moreover, events have the power to bring people from different backgrounds and cultures together, promoting diversity and understanding. Through shared experiences and interactions, events can break down barriers and foster a sense of unity, ultimately shaping a more inclusive and accepting culture. In the world of event planning, understanding the impact of events is crucial. #Eventplanners must consider creating #positive #change. Cvent #eventmanagement #events #eventprofs Serenity Events & Consulting

🌍✊🏾Celebrating Black History Month and Sustainable Travel! ✊🏾🌍 February marks the celebration of Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It's a moment to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. One important aspect of Black history is the legacy of "The Green Book." During segregation in the United States, this guidebook was a vital resource for Black travelers, providing information on safe places to stay, dine, and visit. It was a beacon of hope and safety in a time of systemic racism and discrimination. Today, we recognize the significance of The Green Book in the context of the travel and tourism industry. Though Jim Crow laws are gone, systemic racism persists in travel. Microaggressions, limited representation, and unequal access to safe spaces remain. As a sustainable and responsible travel educator, we advocate for social justice and anti-oppression in every facet of travel. A modern-day counterpart to The Green Book is the ABC Travel Greenbook app, created by Martinique Lewis and the Black Travel Alliance. This innovative tool helps Black travelers find safe and welcoming destinations, accommodations, and businesses worldwide, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in travel. This Black History Month, let's celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of Black travelers past and present, and continue our commitment to sustainable and responsible travel through a lens of social justice and anti-oppression. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for all travelers. #BeARiseTraveler #RiseTravelInstitute #DiversityEquityInclusion #BlackHistoryMonth #Antioppression #ResponsibleTravel #ImpactTravel #SustainableTravel #EthicalTravel

What can we celebrate? Well today I celebrate the fact that not only have I worked very hard for the last 20 years of my career. But this hard work pays off in so many ways. - family activity - a comfortable home - food on the table - the ability to sponsor when asked to do so - the opportunity that I’m able to give to others - the support I’m able to give others - the experience to question other people’s truth - and determination to get it done However all the above I’m still an apprentice. Some of my suppliers love the fact that I aim to control situations, others definitely despise this. Some of my clients love the fact I talk with conviction and passion. Some hate it but still appreciate that it’s out of the vision of getting things right. Can you be all things to all people all the time? NO YOU CANNOT. Look at our Olympian’s they are niche (however we only see some of what they can do) but they are masters of their sport. The worst performance can still be a mighty heroic effort. The point I am badly making here is that we need to celebrate all that is good in the world. And there’s lots of it. The sheer scale of what it takes to pull off the Olympic Games, the detail that goes into lighting a space, the effort that goes into training for that qualification, the money that has to be made to build a business, the negotiating of legal teams to get an outcome, the risks taken by emergency profession to save a life, and the confidence it takes to sing infront of thousands of people. So the celebration is this. Everyone you meet is because of the effort of hundreds of thousands of people that went before us. So make those meetings meaningful and positive and ensure on a meaningful outcome. This chance that you meet people is millions to one so do not waste your greeting.

This is an interesting perspective about the lack of Latino representation at the Oscars.

Happy Juneteenth, everyone! ✊🏾❤️🖤💚 Representation within the Retail Real Estate field matters. Today, as we observe Juneteenth, let's reflect on the significance of this day in our history. Racism and oppression may not be easy topics to discuss, but acknowledging our past is crucial to forging a brighter future for all of us. To all my peers in the industry, here are some tips on being active allies to BI-POC communities: 📍 Support local black/minority owned business! Some of my personal favorites in the DMV/Baltimore region include businesses like Papi Cuisine, The Breakfast Club, Milk & Honey, and Potomac Cookie Co. 🍽️ FYI - Black Restaurant Week in DC begins July 14th-28th! 😉 🏛️ Learn about African American history at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, DC. ⭐ Advocate for diversity by considering predominantly black markets for retail offerings and site selection. Don't let biases hinder deals; these communities are eager for more diverse food and retail options. I know personally, because I’ve worked and lived in these markets. I hear the requests firsthand and on a regular basis. 🌍 Broaden your horizons by exploring places with larger black populations. Immerse yourself in different cultures to gain a deeper understanding. I recently visited Cartagena, Colombia 🇨🇴 in March. I was absolutely enamored by all of the spectacular architecture, vibrant art, and beautiful people that I saw. We often forget that there are black communities that exist outside of the United States, and share a similar history as AAs. I visited the Village of Palenque ✊🏾 and learned the history of one of the first revolutionary towns in the Americas, where many Afro-Colombian slaves escaped to Freedom. It was certainly an experience I’ll never forget. Last but certainly not least — 🫶🏾 Show empathy and demonstrate active allyship. Let's continue working towards a more inclusive and equal future. Acknowledge the progress we’ve made, but remember, there's still much more work to be done. Let's celebrate diversity, learn from our past, and strive for a better tomorrow together. #Juneteenth #RepresentationMatters #DiversityandInclusion #RetailRealEstate #CommercialRealEstate #BlackLivesMatter