Real Talks #9 | GATEKEEP CULTURE

When brands borrow from culture: who gets paid, who gets erased, and who gets to say no?

We’re back with a new edition of Real Talks — and this time, we’re tackling the topic of how far brands can go in using culture for business objectives, and whether some parts of culture should be more gatekept.

From heritages to memes to movements, advertising increasingly feeds on the language, aesthetics, and identities born from communities, niches, and online subcultures. This panel brings together voices from both the creative industry and cultural spheres to debate the ethics of cultural borrowing. Where does inspiration end and exploitation begin? Who should gatekeep culture, and what responsibilities do brands carry when they turn lived experiences into campaigns?

In partnership with @thesocialhub.amsterdam, we’re excited to welcome you for an evening of bold conversations, connection, and creative energy 💡

🔍 For who?

Students, graduates, young creatives, early-career professionals (0–5 yrs), and anyone in the ad industry ready to inspire the next generation.

📆 When?

20 November 2025

Walk-in: 19:00–19:30 CET

📍 Where?

The Social Hub Amsterdam City

Wibautstraat 129, 1091 KR Amsterdam, Netherlands

🎟️ Tickets

€5.00 (excl. transaction costs)

👉 Tickets via link in bio