Tom Novak is a senior behavioral analyst at Canvas8. After completing his second master's degree in cultural sociology at LSE, he was drawn to cultural insight. Tom has conducted qualitative and ethnographic research from the plazas of Santiago to Coventry's suburbs. In his spare time, he can be seen rowing down the Thames or world-building around feminist science fiction.


In a polarised society, the meaning of gender is in flux. People want to be liberated from outdated norms – but many hold on to the gender binary as a source of stability in an uncertain world. How can brands navigate the changing gender landscape without leaning on stereotypes?

Byegender

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.

Collective Equity

Gen Z (born 1997-2010)

Gen Y (born 1982-1996)

United Kingdom

Media and Entertainment

Relationships and dating

TV, film, and social media video

 is the UK's first ever all-female and gay dating show, set to air on the BBC in Summer 2023. While the portrayal of lesbian and queer women in reality TV has been lacking, brands and content platforms now have the opportunity to centre more authentic and diverse narratives.