Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

With a unique style of humour, Kenyan social media star Elsa Majimbo is appealing to a global audience and getting on the radar of several brands. The release of her first book in collaboration with Maison Valentino shows that comedy can be a useful platform for promoting fashion.

In a climate where representation in media is vital for minority viewers, Netflix’s Strong Black Lead is using its celebratory platform to ensure Black people feel seen. By constructing a collective voice, not only is it bringing people together, but it showcases true-to-life content.

There’s not been much to joke about in 2020, with a pandemic, protests against inequality, and a tense political atmosphere leaving many people anxious. But humour is a powerful coping mechanism, one that creates moments of collective calm. So, how can brands get people laughing again?

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say 2020 feels apocalyptic. Playing to the collective mood, Oreo has built a doomsday vault to protect its cookies from the end of the world, and the brand’s mockumentary is providing consumers a dose of light relief in a period of immense uncertainty.