The Full Set w/ April Reign

Challenging the lack of representation of marginalized communities in Hollywood and beyond since 2015 April practiced law for over 15 years, with an emphasis on campaign finance law and reform, but her life took an unexpected turn when her commentary on the lack of people of color represented in the 2015 Oscars nominations compelled her to tweet a now-famous hashtag: #OscarsSoWhite. The hashtag turned into a movement that effected tangible change: The Academy made its most systemic change in its 90+ year history by committing to doubling the number of women and the number of people of color in its voting membership. The hashtag also branded a diversity and inclusion movement that was reaching a tipping point and a social and racial justice revolution was born. As CEO of ReignStorm Ventures, April advocates for the representation of marginalized communities in all areas of the arts, entertainment and tech through speaking engagements, activations, digital and traditional media, corporate consulting and lending her voice to festivals, panels, higher learning institutions and other related efforts. Under April’s direction, Reignstorm Ventures is focused on three major areas: Business Consultancy. Ensuring companies, studios, fashion houses and others are making inclusive, equitable and intentional marketing and hiring decisions. Salons. Concepting, curating and executing unique gatherings sponsored by and tailored for brands to showcase their products and services to a strategically chosen audience. Media Hosting/Interviewing and Panel Mediation. April recently moderated a daily panel at Cannes-Lions’ Inkwell Beach that became the touchpoint for cultural activations and trends during the festival and she continues to be a highly sought-after voice for television, producers, writers, organizations, live panels and many more on subjects related to inclusion, diversity and representation. When April is not advocating for traditionally underrepresented communities, she’s recounting stories of living with a very strong-minded teenage daughter and revealing to her 160k social media followers that she’s a huge pop culture nerd. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-full-set-podcast/support