As the creative industry evolves at lightning speed, a dynamic group of Black executives and crestives who are pushing the boundaries of creativity and changing the way we think about innovation, storytelling and leadership. In response to this shift, the Creative Industry 2025 Forecast, produced by Black At (formerly Black At Cannes), highlights 17 U.S.-based executives and creatives who are leading the charge. By paving the way for the next generation, these leaders are driving change across advertising, media, entertainment, and technology.
At the heart of this transformation, Black leaders are not only reshaping creative campaigns but also driving growth and fostering inclusive storytelling across the globe. Through their roles at top agencies and brands, they are pioneering culture-shifting media and setting new standards for the industry. Moreover, their influence extends far beyond individual campaigns, as they help shape the future of creativity on a global scale.
Peter Ukhurebor, CEO of Black At, spoke to Brand&Culture about the challenges Black creatives continue to face, even as the industry makes strides towards inclusion. He emphasized that today, the challenges Black creatives face at every level. “We have to work twice as hard, and we are scrutinized more,” Ukhurebor said. “There has to be accountability, to agree that their work is good.”
Ukhurebor was quick to highlight the immense talent and expertise within the Black creative community. “These sets of people are amazing at what they do,” he said, referencing the 17 executives featured in the Creative Industry 2025 Forecast. For this reason, he believes brands and agencies have a critical opportunity to go beyond only hiring diverse talent. Instead, they must center Black creatives in leadership roles where they can truly drive change and innovation. Ukhurebor hopes the report serves as a reminder to the industry that Black executives and creatives are leaders with extraordinary skills and an undeniable impact on the industry.
The Creative Industry 2025 Forecast highlights four key trends shaping the future of the industry: culturally driven storytelling, redefined leadership, purpose-led creativity, and talent empowerment. In particular, Black executives and creatives are leading the shift toward more authentic and culturally resonant brand narratives, while simultaneously stepping into leadership roles that influence global creative strategies. Their work focuses on meaningful impact, community engagement, and purpose-driven campaigns. Additionally, these leaders are committed to mentoring and empowering the next generation of Black creatives. As a result, the industry is continuing to embrace diverse perspectives at every level.
In the report from Black At, it features profiles across multiple countries. Here are the 17 U.S. executives and creatives included in the Creative Industry 2025 Forecast:
Brand
- Kimberly Paige, chief marketing officer, Black Entertainment Television (BET)/Paramount
- Richard McLeod, chief marketing officer, Merrell
- Malcolm Ellis, head of diverse investments, Diageo
- Reggie Saunders, vice president, entertainment marketing, Nike (Jordan)
- Tyrona (Ty) Heath, director, The B2B Institute, LinkedIn
- Alex Frias, executive vice president, Steve Madden
- Damon Jones, chief communications officer, Procter & Gamble
- David Mesfin, creative director, Innocean
- Larry Gordon, group creative director, Laundry Service
- Abdul Karim Abdullah, CEO, Afrochella Festival
- Tim Austin, creative director, Draftline
- Breanna Arthur King, manager, brand moments, YouTube at Google
Agency
- Kaleeta McDade, global chief experience design officer, VML
- Walter Geer, chief creative officer, innovation North America, VML and co-founder of Blackweek
- Andre Gray, chief creative officer, Havas and co-founder of Blackweek
- Juan Woodberry, North America creative & entertainment lead, Ogilvy
- Melody Henderson, group creative director, VaynerMedia
As the industry evolves, the Creative Industry 2025 Forecast highlights the growing influence of Black people in shaping creativity and innovation. The report underscores their contributions to redefining leadership, driving culturally resonant storytelling, and fostering inclusive talent development, positioning them as key figures in the future of the creative industry.
Ukhurebor says the organization hopes to honor all of the featured people in their forecast at a gala later this year.
