Today, audiences are shaping the cultural agenda. Empowered to speak up for the causes they believe in, people are actively calling out brands they see as inauthentic. What are the main drivers of this behavioural shift? And how can brands win the trust of these outspoken advocates?

As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

Against a backdrop of uncertainty, people are searching for new sources of control and stability. Where science and ancient wisdom have been conventionally pitted against one another, many are moving towards an integrated approach to authority that draws from the best of both worlds.

In 2020, the boundaries between IRL and virtual life became blurrier as people adapted their social lives to digital channels. In Myanmar, digital communication has transcended social media, with young protesters using memes and internet humour to communicate their cause to a global audience.

Centered around the experiences and opinions of Black users, Black Twitter is a subculture on the platform where Black voices are unfiltered. This collective explores Black identity and demonstrates the positive impact of community in times of crisis and racial injustice.

The death of George Floyd and ensuing protests saw companies worldwide attempt to address systemic racism in their messaging – though many faced a tide of consumer cynicism. Semiotics expert Chris Arning explains how brands can meaningfully show their commitment to anti-racist action.

Tech companies were quick to react to BLM in 2020 with statements of solidarity and UX fixes. But a study shows that the majority of these statements continue to place responsibility for racial injustice on Black people – explaining why Black Americans continue to be skeptical of brand action.