In this episode of Her Agency, Brandi breaks down why community isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for Black women navigating corporate spaces, especially in industries like advertising that weren’t built to serve them. She shares her journey from feeling isolated to leading Onyx, a business resource group designed to support and empower Black talent. Brandi gets real about the emotional toll of being “the only one,” the pressure to perform twice as hard, and why no one should have to carry it all alone. If you’ve ever felt unseen at work—or wondered what’s missing in your career—it might be community. This conversation is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to do it alone. KEY POINTS - The lack of community for black women in advertising  - The value of community in corporate settings  - The importance of having a safe space in the industry - Representation matters: Black women in leadership roles - The role of community in career advancement  - Reasons why most people of color leave advertising  QUOTABLES  "When you find the right community that allows you to feel validated and feel seen, you thrive." – Brandi Rand  "Community is key. When you think about what you need to be able to do, to call in favors or have your name spoken in rooms that you're not in, that's what community looks like. When we talk about having a mentor or a sponsor, somebody who can truly go to bat and advocate for you." – Brandi Rand  Get In Touch with Brandi Rand! IG | https://www.instagram.com/brandi_rand/  LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandirand/  HER Agency, The Collective Are you a Black woman thriving in advertising or ready to start? Join HER Agency, The Collective—a community designed for you to build, connect, and own your agency with women who share your journey. Let’s have real conversations, elevate our brands, and make space where we belong. Join The Collective Today! Follow Us on IG:  instagram.com/heragencypod/  Her Agency is produced by EPYC Media Network