Social media has become a ubiquitous part of modern life, with billions engaging with content daily. Given the significant impact of online content, discussions about positivity, inclusivity, and the roles brands play are vital.
At the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, TIME CEO Jessica Sibley led a roundtable discussion with industry leaders on navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Pinterest CEO Bill Ready, whose company sponsored the event, initiated the discussion by highlighting the challenges faced by young people and the importance of fostering a healthy online environment. He mentioned a decision to restrict access to potentially harmful content for users under 16, stating his belief that young people should be protected from online interactions with strangers.
Ready noted that younger users have recognized Pinterest’s commitment to providing a less toxic online space.
Other business leaders echoed these concerns. Jim Steyer, CEO of Common Sense Media, emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, noting that they affect young people globally.
PacSun CEO Brieane Olson stressed the importance of understanding Gen Z’s needs, noting the degree to which that generation is misunderstood through a “digital lens.” TIME’s Chief Impact and Marketing Officer Sadé Mohammed added that young people often feel excluded in real life, prompting a discussion on facilitating in-person community engagement.
Several executives also emphasized the unique needs of specific younger audiences.
Laurie Lam, Chief Brand Officer at e.l.f. Beauty, urged companies to prioritize making young women feel valued and heard. She emphasized her company’s commitment to uplifting others.
Ndidi Oteh, the incoming CEO of Accenture Song, raised the issue of brand accountability, questioning how influencers can be held responsible for promoting a more positive world.
Roundtable participants also shared personal experiences. Sports broadcaster Erin Andrews, co-founder of WEAR, spoke about her experiences in the public eye, including her battle with cervical cancer. She expressed her continued motivation to encourage female fans to attend games, relating that she’s moved when fathers express that they want their daughters to follow in her footsteps.
Other attendees included Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea Women FC; Lisa McKnight, Chief Brand Officer and Executive Vice President at Mattel; Jimmy Smith, CEO & Chief Creative Officer at Amusement Park Entertainment; Casper Lee, Chief Vision Officer at Creator Ventures; Alexis Ohanian, founder of Seven Seven Six and Athlos; Rachel Delphin, Chief Marketing Officer of Twitch; Carla Hassan, Chief Marketing Officer at JP Morgan Chase; Andréa Mallard, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Pinterest; and Renata Ferraiolo, CEO of SC Johnson Lifestyle Brands and Blakely Thornton, a culture critic and podcast host.
TIME100 Talks: The Power of Positivity — Building Meaningful Brand Connections was presented by Pinterest.
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