The Four Forces of Allyship: What Is It and How Can It Be Actioned?
Somewhere in between progress and pressure, organizations are undergoing a seismic shift towards allyship: in-short, described as the active practice of advancing the culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. For many, slapping logos onto things is easy: it’s what we live and breathe; allyship, however, is far more complex.
The ‘Four Forces of Allyship,’ is a clear and actionable framework developed at the global marketing and innovation consultancy, R/GA. It is designed to help dismantle key barriers that have prevented organizations and its employees from achieving allyship both in and out of the workplace.
In a highly engaging, inspiring and comprehensive discussion, we will go along an exciting journey that explains what the Four Forces of Allyship is and how it is a gateway to innovation, functional and engaging workplace environments, purpose-driven business decisions and stronger work that builds towards a more human future and advances the culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the flaws around allyship and why its antiquated approach has historically failed people and organizations
- Get to know what the Four Forces of Allyship is and how it can be action at both an individual and organizational level.
- Through real case studies, we’ll show you how the Four Forces of Allyship can yield real organizational change across activities that include, employee engagement, hiring practices, policies and innovation across products and services.
Brandon Heard
Brandon Heard is a boundary spanning strategist at the global marketing and innovation consultancy, R/GA. His primary role focuses on brand strategy, portfolio optimization and campaign development for established brands like Samsung, Shopify, American Express, and Ad Council’s, Love Has No Labels.
Often the youngest person in the room, Brandon also works closely with global executives on racial equity and allyship within the organization, including in the development of a proprietary framework called, the Four Forces of Allyship. At R/GA, Brandon also co-chairs the LGBTQ+ Network where he partners with employees and brands to help advance the culture of diversity, equity and inclusion beyond calendar moments.
Outside of work, he leads editorial for ADCOLOR, an non-for-profit organization that champions diversity and inclusion within the creative, tech and entertainment industries. His role helps create a community where diverse professionals can support and celebrate one another.
Brandon also sits on the Next Gen Committee of Facing History and Ourselves, a global educational organization that engages all people to examine racism, bigotry and hate in order to promote the development of a more humane and informed citizenry.
When not trying to save the world, you can find him moving in the mountains on a hike; or you can just follow him on Twitter at @brandonleeheard or on LinkedIn at Brandon Lee Heard.