Pop quiz: What makes you feel unstoppable? Maybe it’s time with your family, getting a good night’s sleep, or yes, even a tough workout. pic features Nathalie Emmanuel
Source: Let The Wisdom From These 10 Game-Changing Women Inspire Your Whole Week (And Life)
Those of us who have been captivated by seasons of television have also witnessed the importance of the strong female character in the shaping of the narratives. While Missandei and Michonne are fictional characters in the world of Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead, they are brought to life by two women who create a diverse roster of athletes for Reebok. Missandei, played by Nathalie Emmanuel is a yogi. Her depiction of a slave turned Queen’s hand I think has been critical in establishing the importance of diversity in a world dominated by men in the fictional Game of Thrones. More important she lends color to a cast that is otherwise all White. Both her role and actual presence are important. Her counterpart on The Walking Dead, Michonne, played by Danai Gurira, is equally important in establishing how women have the resolve to not only lead, but overcome the worst possible situations to thrive in fictional worlds driven by the paternalistic and violent decisions made by men without consideration for the results.
The roles played by the two women provide balance.
Danai also leads the Dora Milaje who are the protectors of Wakanda in the Marvel Black Panther world… well not so much anymore after Thanos, but that’s a different discussion. Which also brings me to another Reebok endorser in Gal Gadot who plays Diana Prince/Wonder Woman in the DC Universe. While these entertainers are the people I’m writing about at this moment Reebok has also done a great job of signing athletes like “Reese Scott who owns Women’s World of Boxing Gym and Shannon Kim Wager who founded the Women’s Strength Coalition.”
What Reebok has done I think is important. Last year I complained about the decision of Reebok to pivot towards their “Always Classic” campaign. When Reebok shook the foundation of the footwear industry in the 80s pushing Nike to the brink of bankruptcy, it happened with an authentic connection to women via the revolution of aerobics. When the brand decided recently to invest in influencer marketing with “Always Classic” I thought it was a mistake. The recent endorsements of Danai and Nathalie shows that Reebok understands a more diverse roster of women who live the lifestyles they portray on the big screen has a better chance of connecting to everyday women fighting their own battles.
Reebok’s ‘Always Classic’ Campaign Aims For The Deceptive Power of Celebrity Influence | Marketing
As Reebok begins to navigate how to market towards women, I think the brand will find its footing and move forward. They are making waves with product and right now the storytelling has a compelling opportunity that rivals any brand around if they continue to build on their current campaigns and really utilize the women beyond simple videos and quotes, the endorsers they’ve aligned themselves with could attract serious interest. While I’ve spoken about how influencer marketing isn’t a consistent method of reaching people, I’ve also stated clearly that an influencer that is a natural fit where the connection is symbiotic will enhance brand awareness. These moves can be golden for Reebok.