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.

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.

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?

Netflix’s Arabic release of the Italian filmPerfect Strangersis tackling the representation of LGBTQ+ communities in the MENA region. While openly gay characters are spurring socio-cultural conversation in the region, Netflix faces a lawsuit amid a battle for ‘morality’ and inclusion.

Voguing is subtly but powerfully taking off across cities throughout China. As LGBT activism is challenged and shut down, the voguing scene – queer-friendly but stopping short of being explicitly political – is acting as a safe space for queer self-expression.

As the LGBTQ+ community demands more nuanced forms of on-screen representation, the media landscape is evolving to allow for diverse content that better represents modern audiences. Through its relatable and lighthearted format,Heartstopperis reframing the queer teen experience for many Gen Zers.