Candice Vernon Speaking Topics

• Breaking Into Commercial Directing: Inside One of the Most Competitive and Misunderstood Creative Industries

  Commercial directing is one of the most coveted roles in the creative industry, yet very few people understand how the business actually works or how directors break in. From global brand campaigns to high-profile celebrity collaborations, commercial directors sit at the intersection of storytelling, advertising, and filmmaking.

  In this revealing talk, award-winning director and creative director Candice Vernon pulls back the curtain on the world of commercial directing. Drawing from her own experience directing campaigns for major brands such as HBO, Spotify, Febreze, Vaseline, and NBA2K, she explains how the industry operates, how directors are selected, and what it really takes to build a career in this space.

  Candice shares practical insights into the creative, strategic, and relationship building skills required to succeed, as well as the pathways that allow creative minds to transition from advertising, filmmaking, or other disciplines into directing global campaigns.

  Attendee Results: • Understand how the commercial directing industry actually works behind the scenes • Learn realistic pathways for entering the highly competitive world of commercial directing • Gain insight into how creative professionals can position themselves for directing opportunities • Discover the intersection between storytelling, advertising, and filmmaking in brand campaigns

• The Power of Black Storytelling: How Film, Advertising, and Media Shape Culture

  Black storytelling has always shaped culture, often far beyond the communities where those stories begin. From film and television to advertising and digital media, the images and narratives we create influence how Black identity is seen, understood, and valued across the world.

  In this thought-provoking talk, award-winning director and creative director Candice Vernon explores the cultural impact of Black storytelling and the responsibility that comes with shaping those narratives. Drawing from her work in film and advertising, she examines how representation has evolved, where it still falls short, and why authentic voices behind the camera matter.

  Candice also discusses how brands, studios, and creators can move beyond surface-level diversity to create work that reflects the complexity, humor, beauty, and truth of Black life. This session invites audiences to rethink the role storytelling plays in shaping culture and the future of media.

  Attendee Results:

  • Understand how Black storytelling has influenced global culture and media
  • Explore the importance of authentic representation behind and in front of the camera
  • Learn how filmmakers and brands can tell more meaningful and culturally resonant stories
  • Gain insight into the future of Black storytelling in film, television, and advertising

• Women in Film and Entertainment: Breaking Barriers and Building Power in a Male-Dominated Industry

  The entertainment industry has historically presented barriers for women, particularly in leadership roles such as directing and producing. Yet women across the industry are rewriting the narrative and building new paths forward.

  In this candid and empowering talk, director Candice Vernon shares lessons from her journey navigating the film and advertising industries as a woman director. She discusses the realities of breaking into spaces where women have traditionally been underrepresented and the strategies that helped her build a sustainable career directing high profile projects.

  Through personal stories and practical insights, Candice encourages women to claim their voice, build networks of support, and step confidently into leadership within creative industries.

  Attendee Results:

  • Gain insight into the challenges and opportunities women face in entertainment
  • Learn strategies for navigating creative industries and building influence
  • Discover ways to advocate for yourself and others in professional spaces

• Creative Leadership: Turning Ideas Into Impact Across Film, Advertising, and Business

  Great ideas are only the beginning. Creative leadership is about turning vision into execution while inspiring teams to bring their best work to the table.

  As a director and creative entrepreneur who has led projects across film and advertising, Candice Vernon understands what it takes to guide creative teams while delivering powerful results. In this talk, she shares insights into how creative leaders can develop strong ideas, communicate vision clearly, and build collaborative environments where innovation thrives.

  Candice also explores the intersection of creativity and business, showing how creative professionals can turn their ideas into meaningful and sustainable careers.

  Attendee Results:

  • Learn how to lead creative teams effectively
  • Understand the balance between artistic vision and practical execution
  • Discover strategies for turning creative ideas into real opportunities

• Faith, Purpose, and the Creative Journey: Trusting Your Calling in Uncertain Times

  Creative careers often require stepping into uncertainty and trusting a path that is not always clearly defined. In this inspirational talk, Candice Vernon shares how faith, perseverance, and purpose have shaped her journey as a filmmaker and entrepreneur.

  Drawing from her personal experiences leaving traditional career paths to pursue directing, Candice explores how faith can guide creatives through challenges, rejection, and moments of doubt. She encourages audiences to trust their gifts, embrace their calling, and remain committed to the work they feel called to create.

  This talk resonates strongly with faith-based communities, creative professionals, and anyone seeking the courage to pursue purpose-driven work.

  Attendee Results:

  • Learn how faith and purpose can guide career decisions
  • Gain tools for navigating uncertainty and rejection
  • Feel empowered to pursue meaningful work aligned with your calling

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