Diversity Advocacy Alliance
Aligned for Change at High Point Market and Beyond
The Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA) is dedicated to advancing, improving, and supporting diversity by cultivating a welcoming environment and expanding the representation of the BIPOC community within the home furnishings industry and its leadership. In partnership with the High Point Market Authority, we intend to amplify these voices, implement equitable practices and policies, and demonstrate authentic representation within our community.
Masters and Mavericks: A Dialogue of Differences
Between Generations Managing Successful Design Firms
Noz Nozawa
Byron Risdon
Peti Lau
Virginia Toledo
Hadley Keller
April 12 | 3-4pm | Located at Universal Furniture
Dive into a captivating dialogue between generations in the design world with 'Masters and Mavericks.' Join us for a riveting exploration of the contrasts and commonalities between seasoned veterans and innovative young leaders managing successful design firms. Delve into the diverse perspectives and approaches shaped by different eras, experiences, and visions for the future. Our masters and mavericks will explore how time and experience have shaped service offerings, pricing strategies, and design processes while delving into the impact of technology on marketing and public relations. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened as we bridge the gap between generations and celebrate the dynamic evolution of the design industry. Presented by DAA.
Diversity Advocacy Alliance Awards
During F/24 Market, the DAA will present awards to stakeholders within the home furnishings industry who exemplify characteristics that demonstrate a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Read on to learn about the different awards, and click here to submit a nomination:
Nominations will be accepted until June 14th, 2024.
The Open Arms Award
This prestigious award celebrates and recognizes an exhibitor/showroom that sets the gold standard for inclusivity and warm hospitality towards all visitors, irrespective of their race, gender, or orientation. It goes beyond merely accommodating different buyer pass types (retailers vs. designers) and instead focuses on embracing diversity through employment, diversifying marketing materials, extending a warm welcome to all Market attendees with legitimate business intentions, and fostering a sense of belonging for all individuals who enter the showroom.
The Mentorship Award
This esteemed award honors individuals who actively contribute to the industry by sharing their knowledge and experience to foster the growth of the existing and next generation of professionals. The recipient of this award not only recognizes the importance of representation but also demonstrates dedication and leadership in their mentorship endeavors. They have a proven track record of providing guidance, support, and mentorship to fellow and emerging designers and colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds.
The Social Responsibility Award
Celebrating individuals or companies that act as activists for positive societal change, the Social Responsibility Award champions inclusivity beyond High Point Market season. This award recognizes those who actively embrace and promote diversity, empowering designers from diverse backgrounds and acknowledging the significant role that diversity plays in driving innovation, creativity, and unique perspectives within the industry. The award also acknowledges showrooms and other entities that demonstrate a commitment to being good neighbors by giving their time, talent, or resources for the benefit of the BIPOC community within the industry at large.
Portraits of Success
There are myriad paths to success – all of which are infused with our own personal experiences. Tune in as some of the members of the DAA share how different elements from their own stories inspired career choices, business growth, and individual development.
Meet DuVäl Reynolds
Discovering Identity Through DesignTaking the time to shape your identity, both personally and professionally, will help you achieve your full potential. Tune in as trailblazing interior designer DuVäl Reynolds talks about how his personal journey equipped him to build (and sustain) his self-made business.
Lean in to who you are.”
Meet Patti Carpenter
Following the Path to PassionNo matter what life stage you’re in, it’s never too late to pursue your dream job. Join design visionary Patti Carpenter as she shares how trusting her instincts gave her the confidence to pursue her passions and shift her career path.
Meet Everick and Lisa Brown
Trusting the Fear of FailureTrue progress cannot be achieved without making mistakes along the way. Listen as seasoned designers Everick and Lisa Brown discuss how to build unshakable confidence from the rubble of failure.
The Value Proposition of Market: Cultivating, and Stewarding Diverse Market Relationships
Arianne Bellizaire, Arianne Bellizaire InteriorsKathy Kuo, Kathy Kuo Home
Joanna Saltz, House Beautiful
Moderated by: Ashley Ross, Muse Noire Interiors
This panel shares their experiences, strategies, and best practices for cultivating and nurturing relationships that resonate across a variety of market segments. During this discussion, our panelists offer practical insight on how they have adapted their Market schedule to align with the goals set for their business. You won't want to miss this masterclass on leveraging every moment the largest international home furnishings market has to offer, from planned heavy hitter events, to chance encounters. Presented by Universal Furniture in partnership with the Diversity Advocacy Alliance.
This launch pad panel is the first installment of a new initiative from DAA's education and engagement community. Our series aims to level the playing field by closing the business education gap across diverse communities in the industry.
Exploring Industry Career Opportunities
Discover the diverse world of careers in home furnishings. Follow along as a group of local high school students explore the myriad of professional paths within this dynamic industry. Engaging with a variety of professionals at Market, from social media experts and marketing gurus to client relations specialists and influential publishers, these students delve into the richness and variety of roles that shape the home and design landscape. Join them on their journey to uncover the unique opportunities and stories of individuals who have carved out their own niches in this vibrant field.
Partner with DAA
If you are interested in partnering with or supporting DAA, please complete this interest form.
Members of the DAA committee will review received inquiries on a monthly basis and then be in touch.
Would you like to learn more or share your thoughts with the
Diversity Advocacy Alliance? Please complete and submit the form below.
Alliance Members
Christi Barbour*
Barbour Spangle Design
Arianne Bellizaire
Arianne Bellizaire Interiors
Everick Brown
Everick Brown Interior Design
Lisa Walker Brown
Everick Brown Interior Design
Patti Carpenter*
carpenter + company/
Trendscope
Ben Johnston
Benjamin Johnston Design
Tanya S. Lewis
Austin Gray Design Group
Rachel Moriarty
Rachel Moriarty Interiors
Tiffany Parsons
Student
DuVäl Reynolds
DuVäl Design
Ashley Ross
Muse Noir Interiors
Victoria Sanchez
Victoria at Home
Carisha Swanson
House Beautiful
*HPMA Board Member