Say More Than Their Name

Storytelling With Accountability & Power

Brandy Walker, Brand Worthy Solutions
Chicago, Illinois

In an era where DEI is under fire and brand trust is fragile, this workshop equips mission-driven organizations with tools to tell stories that are culturally relevant, community-rooted, and resistant to performative harm. Participants will explore narrative power mapping to align their messaging with their values—without exploiting the communities they aim to serve.

As major brands publicly walk back their DEI commitments while continuing to profit off marginalized communities, mission-driven organizations are left at a crossroads: How can we stay culturally relevant and stand for justice without appearing performative or exploitative? This session introduces Narrative Power Mapping—a strategic and reflective tool that helps organizations assess, repair, and reimagine how they show up in the world. Through guided activities, case study analysis, and storywork, participants will learn how to tell brand stories that are rooted in cultural context, accountable to community, and resistant to commodification.

Presenter Bio

Brandy Walker is a seasoned branding expert with a proven track record of helping individuals and nonprofits move from transactional to transformational impact through a strategic lens. With experience both in programs and fundraising she specializes in empowering organizations to unlock their potential and cultivate impactful brand identities.

Brandy excels at fostering authentic connections and breaking down barriers, enabling brands to resonate deeply with their communities. Through her engaging work, affiliations and her podcast, “Brandy Was Here,” she inspires audiences to embrace their unique stories and craft brand images that truly stick.

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