His initiative, celebrating its 10th anniversary, aims to address and rectify the gender disparities in creative directorial and leadership roles across the advertising and creative sectors. This year’s selection includes 19 talented individuals from 14 diverse markets, marking a significant stride towards inclusivity and representation.
For the first time, the programme will feature participants from Kazakhstan, Kenya, and Thailand, illustrating the initiative’s expanding global reach and impact. These individuals will engage in an exclusive four-day agenda during the festival, scheduled for June 17-21, 2024. The curriculum is meticulously designed to foster growth and development, featuring mentorship opportunities, private masterclasses with industry pioneers, and tailored experiences that align with each participant’s career aspirations.
The 2024 cohort is a testament to the programme’s commitment to nurturing a global community of creative leaders. These participants, hailing from a wide array of backgrounds and specialties, underscore the richness and diversity of talent within the creative industry. Among them are Arwa Al Jundi from the United Arab Emirates, Carina Toma from Romania, and Diana Moldagulova from Kazakhstan, alongside others from Colombia, The Netherlands, Kenya, Australia, India, Spain, South Africa, the USA, Thailand, and Singapore. This diverse assembly of creatives signifies the programme’s dedication to elevating voices from across the globe.
Daniela Varela, selected as this year’s Alumni Tutor from last year’s cohort, along with programme Ambassador Madonna Badger, will play pivotal roles in enhancing the 2024 participants’ festival experience. Varela expressed her enthusiasm and the sense of responsibility that comes with guiding this year’s cohort, highlighting the programme’s decade-long legacy of inspiring change and fostering a supportive community within the industry.
Madonna Badger, the See It Be It Chairperson and Ambassador, lauded the 2024 cohort for their collective courage, optimism, and purpose. She emphasized the participants’ role in shaping the future of the creative industry and breaking traditional barriers to success. Frank Starling, Chief DEI Officer at LIONS, also remarked on the significance of See It Be It in promoting gender equity and empowering participants to challenge the status quo, further enriching the creative sector.
As the See It Be It programme enters its tenth year, its mission to achieve equal gender representation in creative leadership remains as vital as ever. The 2024 cohort’s selection not only celebrates the progress made but also underscores the ongoing journey towards inclusivity and equity in the creative industry. The Cannes Lions Festival awaits the arrival of these exceptional individuals, ready to embrace their contributions and witness their impact on the global stage.
