It Takes A Village Collective Announces its Inaugural ‘In My Element’ Gala Dinner in partnership with Cannes Lions Festival 2025
It Takes A Village Collective (ITAV), in partnership with the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, is proud to announce the inaugural In My Element Gala Dinner, taking place on Monday 16th June 2025 at Croisette Beach, Cannes.
This landmark event will celebrate the talent, leadership, and impact of Black women across advertising, media, marketing, and communications; industries where Black female representation remains critically low and systemic barriers persist.
“When Black women are truly in their element, the entire industry thrives,” says Chloë Davies, Founder and CEO of It Takes A Village Collective. “This gala is a bold declaration: we are the source, the strength, and the standard. Together, we are reshaping the future of Adland.”
Simon Cook, CEO Cannes Lions – “We welcome the opportunity to build on our long-term partnerships in support of inclusivity, and to help create environments, at the festival and beyond, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
“Creativity has the power to shift culture, and the ‘In My Element’ Gala Dinner is a beautiful expression of that.” says Marc Webbon, CEO Wonderhatch. “Wonderhatch are honoured to be ITAV’s creative partner in bringing this event to life, with our very own Nimo Awil leading the creative vision. We couldn’t think of a more meaningful and active way to kick off Cannes Lions this year.”
A First of its Kind Celebration
The ‘In My Element’ Gala Dinner will bring together over 200 distinguished guests trailblazers, creatives, and changemakers for a vibrant evening of connection and inspiration. The event features a seated 3-course dinner, live performances, an uplifting keynote speaker and a theme inspired by nature’s elements, precious stones, and metals.
This event follows ITAV’s award winning work with brands such as Channel 4, Virgin Atlantic and Amazon, where their pioneering campaigns achieved record breaking engagement, industry acclaim and implemented inclusive policies.
Driving Change, Not Just Conversation
Black Female professionals still face significant inequities, including a reported £20,000 pay gap and high attrition due to exclusion. ITAV is committed to changing this, with an audacious pledge: by 2028, 1 in 5 professionals in the industry will be a Black Woman.
As part of this commitment, businesses booking tables are encouraged to ensure at least 4 of their 10 seats are for Black Women. A pay-it-forward option is also available, allowing guests to gift a seat to a Black woman attending the festival. Over 40% of invitees will be Black women, embedding access and inclusion from the outset.
This is not just about attendance; it’s about active, visible support for the change our industry urgently needs. Representation at the table matters, and together, we can set a powerful new standard.
Sponsors and partners of the Gala Dinner will be at the forefront of this transformative movement, showcasing leadership in authentic inclusion and innovation.
Tickets will become available from 7th May –
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Monday, 16th June 2025
Time: 7:30 PM – Late
Venue: Croisette Beach, Cannes
Theme: Elements & Elementals (Precious Stones and Metallics)
