This conversation explores the uncomfortable space between progressive messaging and commercial interest—shedding light on why well-meaning marketing campaigns often backfire, and how a deeper understanding of cultural intelligence might be the missing link between purpose and authenticity.

🧭 From Insight to Impact

Kian’s background in both philosophy and marketing gives him a unique lens through which to interrogate the role of business in society. For him, the key shift is moving from insight to impact—and recognising that brand storytelling isn’t neutral.

“Marketing shapes culture and society. The stories brands tell influence behaviour, values, and even identity.”

Many brands claim to be purpose-led, but the gap between intent and execution often leads to reputational risk—or worse, social harm. “We’re seeing more brands get called out for performative campaigns. They say the right things, but their internal practices don’t match,” Kian notes.

That mismatch, he argues, stems from a failure to truly understand the cultures they seek to represent or support.

🌍 Cultural Intelligence: More Than Market Research

Kian believes that the future of ethical marketing lies in cultural intelligence—a practice that combines anthropology, philosophy, behavioural psychology and systems thinking.

“You can’t simply take a cultural insight, twist it into a campaign, and expect it to resonate. Culture isn’t a toolkit. It’s a relationship.”

His work with The People focuses on bridging the gap between brands and communities through long-term engagement—not just trend reports. That means working with cultural researchers, grassroots voices, and youth councils to co-create campaigns that reflect lived experience—not just aspirational messaging.

Some of the common mistakes brands make when attempting this include:

• ❌ Relying on tokenistic representation

• ❌ Using data to justify what they’ve already decided

• ❌ Prioritising short-term virality over long-term impact

“Just because something gets a lot of likes doesn’t mean it’s right,” Kian points out. “Metrics can often distract from meaning.”

💬 The Power of Listening (Not Just Talking)

One of the more surprising takeaways from Kian’s work is that the most powerful form of communication is listening.

“Brands think of storytelling as broadcasting. But real connection comes when you create space for dialogue. That means being willing to be wrong, to change course, and to elevate voices other than your own.”

This, he argues, is where many ESG or sustainability communications fall short. Organisations are quick to share their commitments, but slow to address critique. “There’s a fear of being exposed, so they stick to safe language. But safety often equals blandness. And that’s what people see through.”

🔮 What’s Next for Ethical Storytelling?

As younger generations demand more transparency and accountability from brands, the stakes for getting this right are only increasing.

Kian believes the next frontier lies in co-creation—not just hiring creatives to interpret purpose, but involving communities in shaping what that purpose looks like in practice.

He’s also interested in intergenerational leadership within the creative industries, helping younger thinkers drive change from within, rather than being relegated to advisory roles.

“True innovation often comes from the edge. From people who aren’t yet indoctrinated into how things ‘should’ be done.”

Final Takeaway 💡

Kian’s call to action is simple, yet radical:
Slow down. Listen deeply. Build with—not for—communities.
Because in the end, ethical marketing isn’t about having the loudest voice. It’s about having the most honest one.