Brixton Finishing School targets diverse talent with bold recruitment ads
The all-inclusive programme for digital talent, Brixton Finishing School, has launched its first campaign since it opened its doors back in 2018, with the pro bono support of Brave and Clear Channel.
The recruitment campaign is the first of its kind from the school / Brixton Finishing School
The Brixton Finishing School is the brainchild of Ally Owen, launched last year as a response to the dire need for more diverse talent in the advertising industry.
Although BAME representation is increasing in the UK sector, there is still a long way to go. Only 13.8% of UK ad agency employees identify as BAME, while only 5.6% of C-suite executives are from ethnic minority backgrounds.
To raise awareness of its 12-week digital 'accelerator' scheme for young, under-represented groups, the school has unveiled a series of eye-catching ads that celebrate the importance of inexperienced and creative young people.
Demonstrating the flair the school has quickly become renowned for, the ads artistically highlight how no prior education or experience is needed to enrol on the course.
The series of clean designs seek to strikingly capture their intended audience and were created pro bono by Brave, with substantial media space donated by Clear Channel across London.
Discussing its first campaign, Brixton Finishing School founder Owen said: “We want people with a hunger to succeed, potential to do great things and enthusiasm for creativity.
"The industry is crying out for different voices to create fresh perspectives, new ideas and ultimately better advertising that represents everyone, not just the few. I absolutely love this campaign and am grateful for everyone’s generosity, thought and time to launch this year’s Brixton Finishing School.”
Adding to this, Dipesh Mistry and Drew Haselhurst of Brave's senior creative team said: “Brixton Finishing School shouldn’t have to exist. Anyone should have access to the creative industries if they want it.
"But unfortunately all the stats point towards social mobility getting worse for the first time in decades. Thankfully there are people like Ally Owen around who have the vision and guts to do something about it. So it’s been amazing to get involved with such an important cause and do our small bit to help."
