"It's about embracing the things that make you unique, even if it makes others uncomfortable."
Musician, actor, and activist Janelle Monáe joined Cheddar on Monday to talk about an ad campaign she's working on with Belvedere Vodka that emphasizes inclusion and diversity.
"We have a shared vision about making this world much better. Inclusion is at the top of my list. Inclusion for women, minorities, and my brothers and sisters in the LGBTQIA+ communities," said Monáe.
The venture, which began last year, is called "A Beautiful Future," and involves a coordinated limited edition bottle, a social media campaign, and a video series led by female directors.
The bottle is available beginning this month.
"It's the whole idea that inclusiveness is really the mainstream now," said Rodney Williams, the president and CEO of the vodka brand.
The campaign began at a 2018 brunch co-hosted by Monáe and Belvedere. The event was in support of Monáe's Fem the Future movement, which aims to encourage those who identify as women working in the media, cinema, and arts fields.
"It's really to highlight women's voices, and to say — hey — we're noticing that there is a gender gap. And there's not a lot of women who are behind the cameras. I'm in front of them, where are the producers? Where are the engineers? Where are we?" said Monáe.
"We're here. And we can compete at a high level, but we have to be given those opportunities."
Georgie Dickins, founder of Women in Leadership Global and author of ‘Leading with Impact,’ shares thoughts on women in business and how to cultivate a supportive community.
Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY and Jordan Shapiro, senior managing director at Bachrach Group, break down February’s jobs report and what it means for workers.
Linda Moore, president and CEO of Technet, explains why the U.S. should be a leader in A.I., plus why deepfakes and misinformation could be a concern during the election season.
Steve Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International, shares how the organization’s programs have helped over 2 million people develop their tech skills.
Box office analyst Shawn Robbins breaks down how the theater business is faring as two of 2023’s biggest movies are on their way to the Academy Awards.
Burns McKinney, portfolio manager at NFJ Investment Group, discusses how the Fed is balancing recession risks and interest rate cuts, plus whether the tech rally will broaden.
Nick Wolny, CNet editor, tells consumers about BNPL being added to credit reports – and why they may want to be more cautious about using it as an option.
Co-founders of 1953 Tequila, Shivam Mallick Shah and Lindsey Davis Stover, share how they broke into the traditionally male-dominated world of tequila production.
