On December 10th, London South Bank Technical College had the privilege of hosting a creative workshop delivered by the Ideas Foundation. This dynamic session, aimed at Graphic Design and Business learners, centered on branding and the power of hair as a form of identity and self-expression. The event was part of the Ideas Foundation’s Power of Hair program, an educational campaign in partnership with Pantene designed to explore personal identity and address hair discrimination.

The workshop took students on a journey to understand branding beyond its visual appeal, highlighting its role in tackling social issues and fostering inclusivity. With a focus on creativity, collaboration, and real-world application, the session offered a unique opportunity for learners to engage with professionals and work on live briefs inspired by the campaign.

A Focus on Identity and Social Impact

The Power of Hair initiative delves into the connections between hair, culture, identity, and discrimination. During the workshop, students explored these themes by considering how hair reflects individuality and cultural belonging. They discussed the societal challenges associated with hair, such as restrictive school policies and workplace biases, and examined initiatives like the Halo Code, which promotes freedom and security to wear Afro hairstyles without judgment.

The session encouraged learners to think critically about how brands like Pantene use their platforms to champion inclusivity. Through interactive activities, students reflected on the intersection of personal identity and branding, crafting ideas that celebrated diversity while addressing real-world challenges.

Creative Challenges and Live Briefs

At the heart of the workshop was the opportunity for students to work on a live branding brief. Learners collaborated in groups to design campaigns that would resonate with Pantene’s mission to empower individuals through hair confidence. These briefs challenged students to create a suite of marketing materials, including:

• A 30-second video advert promoting the values of inclusivity and self-expression.
• Magazine advertisements targeted at diverse audiences.
• Street posters and radio ads designed to spread awareness about hair discrimination and inspire change.

Students also developed mood boards to visually represent their campaign themes, selecting colors, textures, and imagery that captured the essence of their ideas. By working on these briefs, learners gained practical experience in brand strategy, visual communication, and audience engagement.

Bridging Creativity and Professional Insight

Throughout the session, students had access to the expertise of industry professionals who provided guidance and feedback on their work. This mentorship offered valuable insights into the branding industry, helping learners refine their creative concepts and understand the importance of strategic thinking in marketing.

The workshop also included discussions on the role of social media in branding, highlighting how platforms can be used to amplify messages and build connections with audiences. Students were encouraged to think about the impact of influencers, partnerships, and storytelling in creating memorable brand experiences.

Empowering the Next Generation of Creatives

The workshop left a lasting impact on students, many of whom expressed excitement about the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that combined creativity with social awareness. By connecting branding to real-world issues like hair discrimination, the Ideas Foundation empowered learners to see their work as a tool for change.

Looking Forward

This collaboration with the Ideas Foundation reflects LSBTC’s commitment to providing its students with enriching, real-world learning experiences. The workshop not only enhanced learners’ creative and professional skills but also inspired them to think critically about the role of branding in shaping society.

As LSBTC continues to partner with organizations that champion creativity and inclusivity, students can look forward to more opportunities to engage with industry leaders and work on projects that make a difference. The Power of Hair workshop was a powerful reminder of how creativity, when combined with purpose, can drive both personal and societal growth.