Hear Here, Edition One: Why personal brand matters in creative leadership

On Tuesday 13th May, we launched Hear Here: a conversation and a collective for female creative leaders who are ready to break the mould, and lead the next chapter of the creative industry.

We hit capacity for our very first event, welcoming 50 brilliant women. The space felt fun, energetic, and full of people showing up as their real selves, ready to push forward together.

And that’s exactly what Hear Here is about. A space where female, non-binary, agender, and gender non-conforming creative leaders can come together to speak openly, think differently, and shape the future of our industry together.

Why now?

Because in nearly a decade, not much has changed.

Since 2015, the percentage of female designers in the industry has increased by just 1%. And despite women making up 63% of design graduates, only 18% of senior and director roles are held by women.

Not only is it frustrating, but it’s also a huge missed opportunity for the industry.

Without intentional spaces, mentorship, and leadership programs, the gender gap in creative leadership won’t fix itself. In fact, it’s likely to keep widening.

Edition one: the power of personal brand

Our first event was all about personal brand and why it matters in creative leadership.

We know that 71% of people trust individuals more than institutions. That means who delivers the message is just as important as the message itself.

In an industry where ideas, influence and visibility are everything, your personal brand can be your most powerful asset… but it’s often undervalued, particularly by women. 

Building a personal brand can feel awkward, intimidating, or something other people do. It’s easy to play small or wait for permission. This panel reminded us: don’t.

We heard from some seriously inspiring women who’ve built brands that reflect who they are and where they’re going. They talked about the good, the tough, and the transformative parts of owning your voice in a competitive industry, and how doing that has opened doors.

One stat we shared on the night really stood out: 82% of women who reach C-level roles say that external communities were key to their success. 

Why it matters

Because creative leadership needs diverse voices.

Because only 24% of top creative awards in Europe have gone to women over the last five years.

Because we can’t wait another ten years to see a 1% shift.

We believe now is the time to amplify these voices, not just to be heard, but to be felt.

To lead with impact, shake things up, and shape a creative industry that reflects all of us, not just some of us.

That means showing up, backing ourselves, and making space for others to do the same.

What’s next?

This was just the beginning. Hear Here will continue as an event series, each one focused on a different aspect of creative leadership. 

We’re so grateful to everyone who came to Edition One and helped shape what Hear Here is becoming – stay tuned for more!