Talk by Mary Ames, September 19, 2023 in collaboration with DIFC Fintech Hive.

Mary Ames visited the Women-In-Tech Startup Program, to share insights on the art of brand storytelling, turning passion into purpose, and the tools for creative impact for women entrepreneurs.

With an eye to ongoing disruptions caused by generative AI, a tumultuous crypto market and the ever-present need for enhanced cyber security, Mary highlighted the urgency of the moment that is ripe for impact-driven storytelling.

Key Highlights

The Narrative Rollercoaster: The journey of a brand is filled with highs and lows. This is a good thing: learn how to use your story to craft a compelling, multi-dimensional narrative.

The Power of Authenticity: In a world saturated with content, authentic storytelling is the key to forming lasting connections with your audience. Don’t be afraid to get emotional.

Even when you think you’re emoting at 100% give It at least 10% more

Strategic Communication: The blend of storytelling, strategy, and technology creates a potent mix for effective brand communication. Your brand voice — what you say — is your strategic core and must remain constant. But your brand tone — how you say it — should modulate to reach your target audiences where they are at.

Turning Passion into Purpose: Passion alone is not enough; learn how to channel it into a venture that solves real-world problems that matter to you. Your story is your litmus test. If your message doesn’t land with a particular audience, this does not necessary mean you have ‘failed.’ Examine the data thoroughly and you might realize that it was the wrong audience for you.

Sometimes failure isn’t what it seems on the surface.

Tools for Creative Impact: The digital age offers a plethora of tools that can amplify your brand story and make it resonate with a wider audience. Branding is a science. Learn to use the tools of color, shape and typography to craft a visual identity that evokes the right emotional response in your audience, then back it up with a story.