What a week! I’ve been trying my best to be as present as possible, but I couldn’t be more excited to finally share @creativeladderorg with the world. One week ago today, during #CannesLions2022, my cofounder, @vancityreynolds , announced the formation of Creative Ladder. Founded by Ryan, @davidgriner and myself to connect, inspire and elevate a new inclusive generation of creatives, Creative Ladder intends to make creative careers more accessible and inclusive. We’ll be focusing primarily in advertising, design, marketing, and commercial production, and we’ll do this via high school and collegiate outreach, to let them know these careers exist, and through our Leadership Academy which will provide leadership skills and training for young associates. But, I have to admit that my favorite part is connecting our immensely talented folks with mentors and helping them develop a network of creatives who look like them. I want to be clear and note that in our communities, there isn’t a talent deficit, there’s an opportunity deficit. Creative Ladder will help us cast a broader net and connect amazing young creatives to opportunities otherwise less accessible and known. We’re super excited to work alongside, and amplify, other orgs with similar missions and goals. I’m so excited to launch this Fall. To my visionary co-founders, David and Ryan, thank you for the innovation, your open hearts, and your willinginess to share and spend your privilege. To our amazing board and team, thank you for your dedication and your passion. And, to my fellow creatives, we see you—we want to connect and work to make real impact in our industry with you. At Creative Ladder, we lift as we climb. Come lift and climb with us! 🪜