Social Responsibility is Real

Advertising in a nation whose poverty runs so deep, at such a tremendous level that is unbelievable until actually experienced seems like a paradox wrapped up in a pretty little box. And yet, our itinerary is full of day tours to international ad agencies whose advertising efforts are successful, award winning and revolutionizing India as a brand. After meeting with Wieden + Kennedy, Delhi offices, I have a deeper and rich understanding of what is taking place in the Indian market place and how it is impacting the entirety of the population and the world.

As our presentation at W+K ensued, a collective ambition and the passion of advertising as an institution to help the good of all India radiated through the speaker. He reminded us that as we were sitting in an air-conditioned conference room clutching our over-sized coffee mugs, there were starving children, begging mothers and an entire nation lacking proper infrastructure and basic human needs such as shelter, clean water and hygiene. However, he assured us that each and everyday there are people who are aware of the bleeding situation and advertising has the social capability to assist and address this situation through a new wave of social responsibility--from agencies to CSR and sponsorships for local parks, school and restoration, it is a ground up operation. 

And yet, another inspiring day.

More Delhi Pics

Survived.

Train from Agra to Delhi. Survived. Barely held on without the impending breakdown. I'm sure that will come after landing in Dallas. Imagine a child with only one leg, scooting and hopping along the outdoor train station. Staring Indian men, women and children wondering who you are and what you're doing in their county. Once on the train, you try to make eye contact with no one, but somehow it happens again, and again. Thank God for Alvey and her maternal ways, creating a safe haven for first-time Indian travelers during times of overwhelming uncertainty. Mass chaos and an indescribable fear that is not, or rarely found in America.

Arrive in Delhi at the amazing Trident resort. Dinner. Wine. Sleep. Breakfast. Tour. Pictures to come.

Sleepy with an early side of morning. First Delhi agency visit begins at 8 a.m.

To novel experiences and humble appreciation.