Afdhel Aziz (He/Him)

In the month of March, I moderated an AI panel on "AI-Proofing Your Career" for Chief, a senior women executives' networking group, with Karina DuQuesne Yvonne Li Maribeth Martorana, CFA in which we discussed the importance of women in AI careers, tips on educating yourself and staying at pace with developments in AI, and how to get started integrating AI into your daily workflow and enable your workforce with AI. Check out the summary of our panel discussion.

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🩰 Celebrating Women Founders in Ballet 🩰 In honor of the women shaping the dance industry, Dance Data Project® presented a comprehensive listing of women-founded ballet and classically based professional companies in the United States. Tracking these women-founded ballet companies is essential for recognizing the role women play in shaping the American ballet sector. From innovation to regional influence, these companies embody talent, resilience, and endurance. This has the power to inspire aspiring dancers, choreographers, and industry leaders, challenging norms and pushing boundaries. For example, did you know that the first American ballet company, the Chicago Opera Ballet, was established in 1910? Dorothy Alexander made history in 1929 as the first woman to found a ballet company, laying the groundwork for future women pioneers in the field. Despite facing significant obstacles, many of these women established their companies before laws were enacted to protect women's rights. From the Equal Pay Act to the Equal Opportunity in Education Act, these women defied barriers to creating successful ballet companies. Here, 179 ballet companies founded or co-founded by women between 1929 and 2024, were compiled. The data distinguishes between currently active (i.e. Ajkun Ballet Theatre - Founded by Chiara Ajkun in 2000 Alabama Ballet - Founded by Dame Sonia Arova (Thor Sutowski) in 1981 Albany Berkshire Ballet - Founded by Madeline Cantarella in 1969 American Ballet Theatre and defunct/inactive companies, shedding light on the enduring impact of women in ballet. Methods & Limitations: DDP sourced founder names, gender, and years active primarily from company websites, social media, news articles, and archival resources. Despite their best efforts, they acknowledge the possibility that not all women-founded ballet companies are included, and invite contributions and feedback to enhance their understanding of women's contributions to the dance industry. #Arts #Culture #Dance #Ballet #Women #Data #Innovation #Empowerment #Representation #Leadership

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Summer of impact. “All of the things we’ve been talking about: Build wealth. Create jobs. Create health. Transform these communities forever.” At Jobs for the Future’s summit in Washington, DC, this week, BlocPower’s Donnel Baird said he could almost taste the opportunity to leverage the historic federal investment in greening low-income communities. But, as ImpactAlpha’s Roodgally Senatus reports, Baird dreads that it could all slip away. He committed himself to moving as much capital into communities as possible before the November election in the US. “It’s hard for me to focus on anything else.” Not gonna lie: We welcomed the renewed energy unleashed by the suddenly reset US election campaign. Amy Cortese, Dennis Price and I laid out the opportunity to reclaim the narrative, not only for tech and venture capital, but for positive social impact itself. Amy followed up with a sampling of pollution-reduction projects across 30 states, from climate-smart agriculture in Nebraska, to wildfire mitigation in Montana, to the electrification of heavy duty trucking in New Jersey. The challenges for Agents of Impact remain the same, regardless of the polls: Deliver tangible and measurable positive impact for people and communities, and soon. What’s at stake is perhaps even more stark in countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America. In Kenya, young demonstrators have for six weeks protested against a new tax proposal, stagnating wages and widespread corruption. At the Africa Impact Summit in Nairobi, ImpactAlpha contributor Lucy Ngige explored what Africa’s youth are protesting for, and found that impact themes such as quality job creation, women’s economic empowerment, inclusive financial services and access to affordable clean energy could form the core of a positive agenda. In Peru, the path to inclusive prosperity runs through biodiversity and social innovation, Aldo Soto of Amazonia Impact Ventures and Marisela Vega Zuleta of Aliados de Impacto-NAB Perú wrote in a report from the country’s first impact investing summit in Lima. For a glimpse of what’s possible in even the toughest circumstances, check out the third post in Roody’s Real Revitalization series from West Baltimore, where at least 15,000 buildings sit vacant. Nadine Ngouabe Dlodlo is redeveloping a 30,000-square-foot mixed-use space to anchor a full block revival of a once bustling commercial strip, one of several projects of her organization, Women's Home Preservation. “We are running out of time because of the speculative interests that are coming on the back of our hard work, and those speculative interests are counterproductive to what we want as a future,” Dlodlo said. “Anti-displacement is building a community that is healthy and sustainable.” Enjoy the summertime, and the fruits of your impact. https://lnkd.in/g5aRe6s4

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The #Formula: Unlocking the Hidden Treasure Chest of Corporate Advertising Budgets 💰🌱 In the labyrinth of systemic change, nonprofits often find themselves at a familiar crossroads: the grant application. It's a well-trodden path that can lead to dead ends and frustration. What if a hidden treasure chest is waiting to be discovered, a new pathway leading to sustainable funding and deeper impact? 🤔 The world of advertising is undergoing a seismic shift. Traditional channels are losing their grip as consumers demand authenticity and purpose. This presents a unique opportunity for nonprofits to enter the spotlight and forge powerful partnerships with businesses. 🤝 From #Ads to #Action Imagine a world where companies redirect a portion of their massive advertising budgets toward social and environmental impact initiatives. It's not just about philanthropy; it's about creating shared value that benefits both the company and the community. 📈 Impact Partnerships: Nonprofits and businesses can co-create campaigns that tell powerful stories, resonate with consumers, and drive meaningful change. 🥦 Cause-Related Marketing: Brands can tie their products or services to a cause, donating a portion of profits to support related initiatives and fostering deeper connections with conscious consumers. 🛠 Employee Engagement: Companies can empower employees to volunteer their time and skills, creating a sense of purpose and strengthening community ties. Measuring the #ROI of #Purpose The benefits of purpose-driven marketing extend far beyond the bottom line: 🤝 Brand Reputation & Loyalty: Consumers are more likely to support brands that align with their values. 🥇 Attracting & Retaining Top Talent: Purpose-driven companies are magnets for passionate individuals. 🕊 Stronger Community Relationships: Investing in local communities fosters goodwill and trust. 💡 Innovation & Growth: Addressing social and environmental challenges can spark new ideas and business models. 🧭 #Recalibrating Our #Compass 🧭 This shift towards purpose-driven marketing requires a willingness to break free from the "formula trap" and embrace a more holistic and forward-thinking approach. It's about recognizing the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on the world. By broadening their perspective, companies can identify opportunities to create shared value, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. It's about recognizing that true success encompasses more than just profit; it's about making a positive difference. 🌱 #CalltoAction Join us at The Global Chamber® Virtual League of Global Non-Profits event on September 13th, where we'll explore how nonprofits can tap into unconventional funding streams and forge purpose-driven partnerships with businesses. Register now and be part of the solution! https://lnkd.in/gdqkZbPJ

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Love this guide ( let's stop using the word toolkit! and they don't) about how to talk with people and engage climate action from Renee Lertzman, PhD and the Project InsideOut https://lnkd.in/eeQA7N_2. Inviting, practical, accessible in language and visuals, and immediately resonates with both experience and research. There step guide is - * Attune ( know yourself and know your audience), * Reveal, ( share experience, first person stories, make it personal and relevant) *Convene, (bring people together, be a guide and facilitate rather than lecture) *Equip ( give your community the skills, tools and resources to move and act) and *Sustain (ensure it's not short-term and takes a long-term view and builds in longevity and growth and is not hinging on one person/champion in a hero mode). https://lnkd.in/eMwPx-Ju Check it out and let me know how this responds or connects with your #climate work? #climateCommunications #ClimateAction and go to their website for more https://lnkd.in/eeQA7N_2

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Honored and excited to moderate a session on "The Danger of Disinformation" featuring dentsu's Deva Bronson and Index Exchange's Azma Gohar at TAG's 2024 State of the Fight. Disinformation is a growing menace, with advertising increasingly being used to monetize and spread falsehoods. Deceptive ads - often masked as legitimate content - and ad inventory on disinformation sites, exploit digital platforms to amplify misleading narratives, eroding trust in media and institutions. As disinformation infiltrates our daily lives, it not only misguides consumers but also threatens the very fabric of informed decision-making. The danger lies in its subtlety—disguised as truth, it distorts reality. Join us as we discuss why it's crucial to recognize and combat this manipulation before it further undermines the integrity of public discourse and democracy itself. TAG Community: Get your tickets here 👉 https://lnkd.in/eeB9Hdqs (Password can be found in TAG Community Member's inboxes! If you can't find it, email us at [email protected]) #SotF24 #adfraud #threatintelligence #disinformation #brandsafety #transparency

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🎉 TGIF! Co-founder Zuleyma Bebell reflects on ImpactAlpha’s 10-year anniversary. Raise a glass. In April of 2014, I was about to give birth to two babies. My first child, Sebastian, was due any minute. And David Bank and I were about to push ImpactAlpha.com live. Having your first-born is hard. So is launching a company. The two experiences have something else in common: If my husband and I had waited for the perfect time, we wouldn’t have the family we have now; if ImpactAlpha had waited for funding, we wouldn’t have the company we have today. In this week’s podcast, David shares some moments from our first decade. After thousands of stories, my son and ImpactAlpha are both turning 10. Another lesson from both parenting and building a business: just keep going. All of our kids have grown up with ImpactAlpha, and given us an appreciation of what has come to be called “child lens investing.” In The Brief this week, Essma Bengabsia of the Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights impact investments to fix a broken child care system by helping providers build facilities and parents find day care. Kids also need renewable energy, affordable housing and racial equity, as W.K. Kellogg Foundation's  Cynthia Muller points out in her reflections on lessons learned from the foundation’s $310 million in mission-driven investments. Builders Vision's Bruce McNamer sees family offices as crucial in funding the climate transition. We’re looking forward to seeing all of these contributors and partners at the Mission Investors Exchange conference. Amy Cortese had reports on Solar For All and the steep learning curve for community lenders that are leveraging the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. James McIntyre has a compelling proposal to green down payment assistance to create better homes and better mortgages. Louie Woodall dissected the debate over carbon credits that has roiled the Science Based Targets Initiative. Dennis Price keyed in on the “alpha in impact” opportunity in helping reintegrate citizens returning from prison, now visible in FreeCap Financial, Inc’s new “decarceration index.” And we’re watching the impact of AI and the investment in Anthropic by Omidyar Network, Ford Foundation and Nathan Cummings Foundation, which guest authors Lyel Resner and Dr. Wilneida Negrónsee as a signal of impact investor interest in responsible tech innovation. From baby steps, we’ve learned to walk, with the help of Agents of Impact who have filled ImpactAlpha with their innovation, energy and commitment. We’ve grown up, as have many of you, alongside the idea that it’s possible to optimize finance for better outcomes for our kids and for all of us. We’re grateful to be able to play a role in that growth alongside this idea that it’s possible to optimize finance for better outcomes for our kids and for all of us. We’re humbled by the trust you’ve placed in us. https://lnkd.in/gHNM7Bss

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Great article as they look systematically at how diversity can be of huge benefit- win-win- for companies.

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🎨💡 Redefining Audience Engagement: A Call for Authentic Connections "Organizations should frankly assess whether they seek to expand audiences or whether they seek to expand audiences strictly for their artistic priorities, because these can be in tension." — Francie Ostrower, PhD The insights from The Wallace Foundation's report, "In Search of a Magic Bullet: Results from the Building Audiences for Sustainability Initiative," resonate in today's cultural landscape. Access the report here: https://lnkd.in/eP_PpXH9 Reflecting on Sunil Iyengar's words and the report's findings, I can't help but contemplate challenges that face our society, particularly from the perspective of a Zillennial: - Housing Costs: Skyrocketing rent and homeownership barriers. - Student Loans: Pressures to pursue higher education amid financial strain. - Experience Issues: Entry-level job scarcity, low pay, and lack of mentorship. - Systems Issues: Discrimination based on race, sexuality, gender, class, etc. - Lack of Time: The increasing gig economy, leaves little room for leisure. - The Future: Navigating global challenges, which erode trust and stability. In acknowledging these realities, it becomes evident that the arts cannot exist in isolation from the world's complexities. When attempts to engage audiences fall short, we must consider whether our art forms truly resonate or if systemic barriers hinder participation. Yes, escapism has its place, but relevance and accessibility are equally crucial. How can we expect younger audiences to engage, donate, or become members when they're grappling with such pressing issues? As a passionate advocate for the arts, I'm compelled to ask: How can we cultivate genuine connections and combat systemic obstacles to participation? The Platinum Rule—treating others as they want to be treated—should guide our approach. It's time for arts organizations to take bold action. What if we addressed systemic issues through our performances? What if we facilitated connections between audience members and relevant community resources? What if we solicited input from our communities to shape our artistic offerings? Ultimately, our goals should extend beyond ticket sales. We need authentic connections with all members of our community, regardless of whether they purchase a ticket. #Arts #Culture #Research #Data #WallaceFoundation #AudienceEngagement #CommunityEngagement #Intersectionality #Zillennials #SystemicChange

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To get a first hand account of how the role of the CMO continues to shape-shift, I sat down with Chief Growth and Disruption Officer at Xerox, Deena LaMarque Piquion and Global President of EssenceMediacom, Kristin Gower to hear their thoughts on the subject. Our conversation ranged from changing titles to AI and everything in between. Three insights that might ring true for you: 1. CMO as Growth Orchestrator –  We saw this last year with EssenceMediacom's research too: With an expanded remit, CMOs are now responsible for multifaceted, data-driven strategies and the ability to scale initiatives quickly and globally. 2. Tracking Brand Health and Customer Insights to Drive Growth – Using brand studies and NPS surveys to understand strengths and focus areas, particularly targeting emerging decision-makers, to identify growth opportunities and refine engagement tactics. 3. Redefining the B2B Marketing Playbook with Emotion – Adopting a more human and playful approach, using platforms like TikTok to engage younger buyers, and aligning with digital transformation trends for more relatable and impactful messaging. Full scoop here: https://lnkd.in/eZjhffm9

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🌟 Ready to uncover the hero within you? Join us for "Mix It Up", an event in partnership with Sunday Afternoon Project, SXSW and Austin Film Society where we dive deeper than job titles and discover the real you. Everyone has a story that goes beyond their resume - a narrative that shapes who they are and what drives them. At "Mix It Up", we're not just exchanging business cards; we're exchanging life stories, meaningful connections, and moments of "wow, I never thought about it that way!" When you come with intention, magic happens. This is your chance to share your journey, the origin of your #superpower, and yes, even the plot twists that made you who you are today. We believe that by sharing your authentic story, you create a safe space for others to do the same, leading to connections that are anything but superficial. Whether you think your story is ordinary or extraordinary, we're here to help you discover the hidden gems in your narrative. Trust us, your story is more fascinating than you might think! ✨ Event Details: 📅 Date: August 22 📍 Location: AFS Cinema, Austin, TX 🕔 Time: 5 - 7 PM CT 📝 Registration: https://lnkd.in/gKx2ueEt Let's make this an evening of storytelling, connection, and growth. We can't wait to help you uncover the deeper story you didn't even know you had. So, are you ready to be the hero of your own tale? 🚀 Hans Schrei Hugh Forrest Sabrina Smith Greg Rosenbaum Cassandra Kuhn Adam Wode Jann Baskett Dr. Jason Ottley Autumn Amescua Kevan Irsch Audrey Ullman Julia Shatilo #SundayAfternoonProject #NetworkingWithIntention #DiscoverYourStory #SXSW #AustinCreatives #MixItUp

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As a convener of Grand Challenges, I'm thrilled to see the introduction of the bipartisan Future of AI Innovation Act. This crucial legislation aligns perfectly with our ethos of bringing together diverse expertise to overcome significant barriers. By establishing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) AI Safety Institute and promoting grand challenge prizes, it catalyzes collaboration across government, academia, and industry. These initiatives not only aim to position the U.S. as a leader in AI but also ensure innovation continues in a manner that upholds our democratic values. A promising step forward in harnessing AI's potential responsibly and effectively. #grandchallenge https://lnkd.in/eF3D2qSt

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We are on an individual and collective transformation at PolicyLink. A revolution of the soul…

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In our latest episode of #imPRessions, David H. Dancer talks with co-hosts Jennifer Lewis and Kalli Vetrano about how to rebrand flawlessly. Having led iconic rebrands across industries, David shares the do's and don'ts of revamping a brand. From communicating changes to customers instead of surprising them to phasing in modifications, Dancer's advice is truly 💯. In this episode, David breaks down famous fails like Twitter/X and wins like Dunkin shedding "Donuts." Are you feeling inspired to modernize your business? Tune into this episode before starting your revamp. #Rebranding #BusinessBranding #MarketingStrategy #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #LinkedInMarketing #podcast The Pollack Group

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‘Culture has become so flattened that when I see or experience something genuinely weird or new, or like someone’s brain vomited out in their art, I am delighted.’ It was this from Sharmadean Reid MBE's newsletter, that struck a chord and made me think about the increasing conversations I'm seeing around cultural stagnation. I explore this further in my article for Brands&Culture. How do we break free from the endless scroll of sameness and spotlight the true disruptors shaping culture? How can brands play a meaningful role in supporting those driving progress, rather than just following trends?

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Need to scale content production? 📈 As a content studio, we're nimble and innovative in content development. At Maverick, we're always thinking about doing this at scale. Think about: What tools do we need? What processes should we have? What talent can help us achieve this?

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Learn how PolicyLink arrived at a consciousness of all. All is the operative word in our equity definition — Just and fair inclusion into a society where all can participate, prosper and reach their full potential.

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**Diverse Segments Represent Business Growth: Are CMOs Investing Accordingly?** I recently read an insightful article by my colleague Isaac Mizrahi, CEO of Alma on Forbes that delves into a critical question for today's marketers: Are CMOs investing appropriately in diverse segments? As we approach the second half of the year, companies are reassessing their business projections amid an uncertain macroeconomic scenario. With inflation and high interest rates impacting consumers, brands are seeking growth opportunities beyond price increases. Diverse segments present a promising avenue for growth. According to the latest U.S. Census report, Hispanic, African American, and Asian American consumers now represent 100% of the country's population growth and a significant share of business growth across various categories. Isaac's analysis of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that between 2017 and 2022, total annual aggregate spending per household increased by 25%. Notably, the combined diverse segment experienced a 42% increase in expenditure, outpacing the non-Hispanic white segment, which grew by only 19%. Household purchasing power also surged, with the Hispanic segment growing by 46% to $1.3 trillion, the African American segment by 35% to $1.0 trillion, and the Asian American segment by 47% to $0.7 trillion. These segments now represent 30% of America's household purchasing power, up from 26% in 2017. Despite these numbers, many CMOs still view diverse segments as an extension of the general market, relying on single, broad-reaching ideas. However, connecting with diverse consumers requires a balanced mix of inclusive and culturally specific approaches, leveraging influencers, social media, and digital channels to amplify culturally relevant messages. Ignoring the significance of diverse segments, especially among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, could be a costly mistake. These consumers demand recognition of their whole identity, including ethnic pride and belonging, influencing American culture in music, fashion, food, sports, language, and entertainment. Marketers must invest strategically in diverse consumer segments to achieve substantial growth and become market leaders. It's time to put marketing investments where the growth is. Which side will you pick? #Marketing #Diversity #BusinessGrowth #ConsumerTrends #CMOs #EthnicMarketing #hispanicmarketing

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What does innovation mean to you? Catch my colleagues Abram Sirignano and Tony Fross [he/him plus], on the Innovation Storyteller podcast discussing a crucial aspect of innovation – vulnerability. Hear from Tony and Abram how Prophet views organizations as living systems with DNA, bodies, minds, and souls. “Build a new understanding of how the world might work differently - can we get to an application or outcome that might be useful to our clients.” While traditional business processes often rely on absolutes, innovation requires a leap of faith into unchartered territories. Listen to the full episode.

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