Andrea NagelCEW sets the stage for its Inclusive Beauty virtual program today, Thursday, October 15, at 1 p.m. ET, with a conversation focused on how beauty brands and companies can work with creators in more inclusive and meaningful ways. Moderated by CEW Chief Content Officer Andrea Nagel, this pre-recorded discussion features beauty industry professionals Nyla Stanford and Stixx Mathews, who share their experiences navigating creator partnerships and offer insight into how the industry can improve its approach to diversity and inclusion.
Stanford, a freelance writer, editor and content creator who serves as shopping and nightlife editor at 1202 Magazine, emphasized that inclusion must extend beyond heritage months and remain part of the industry year-round. “The importance of inclusion is keeping that going throughout the entire year,” she said.
Mathews, who has 13 years of experience across brand, editorial, consulting, and content creation, discussed how newer marketing teams may overlook creators’ broader experience. He explained that brands sometimes discover creators through viral social media posts without researching their work across the industry, leading to product-gifting offers instead of more substantial partnerships.
The speakers also addressed the challenges creators face when negotiating compensation. Stanford said it can be difficult to advocate for fair pay while building a career, particularly when creators are still learning to recognize their own value. She stressed that partnerships should benefit both the creator and the brand, and that accepting less favorable opportunities is not always the best long-term decision.
Both speakers encouraged brands to move beyond one-off campaigns tied to Black History Month, Caribbean Heritage Month, and HBCU homecoming season. Mathews said beauty brands should begin building relationships well ahead of these occasions, incorporating diverse creators into their annual marketing calendars rather than treating them as seasonal additions. “Beauty is culture,” he said, explaining that recognizing this can help brands develop more meaningful partnerships.
Stanford also encouraged creators to speak openly with one another about compensation, brand offers and professional experiences. She noted that sharing information can help identify recurring patterns and give creators greater confidence when advocating for themselves. She added that brands should take the time to research creators’ full range of skills and experience to better understand how they can contribute beyond a single campaign.
The discussion sets the tone for CEW’s Inclusive Beauty program, kicking off today at 1 p.m. ET, by highlighting the importance of thoughtful outreach, equitable compensation, and long-term collaboration. By recognizing diverse creators’ expertise and building relationships throughout the year, beauty brands can move beyond seasonal representation toward more consistent and meaningful inclusion.
Click here to access a conversation on inclusivity and creators.
