Representation matters. It gives people the space to feel validated and allows everyone to express their opinions comfortably. Representation helps create a team environment where diverse ideas and perspectives are appreciated and everyone feels valued. This Black History Month, Kepler is giving our employees the space to share their own stories and shed light on the unique reality the Black diaspora faces in the digital marketing and advertising industry.

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Meet Thelicia Covington

What is your current role at Kepler?‍

Analyst - Optimization, and Innovation

Co-lead for BlackStars (Black Employee Resource Group)

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Why did you choose a career in marketing/advertising?

I have always wanted to pursue advertising. When I was a child and saw the Coca-Cola commercial with the panda bear, I recall thinking "this is what I want to do" - I didn't have a name for it at the time but I knew I wanted to create stories and influence people. As I got older I kind of gave up on that dream because it didn't seem practical nor attainable. It wasn't until I switched my major from education to communication that I found my way back.

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Breakthrough: What was your first marketing/advertising role? How did you get it? What was the hardest vs easier part about landing this role?

My first marketing/advertising role was here at The Kepler Group. I applied to this job through a career board email my college would send out weekly. The hardest part about landing this role was the extensive interview process, it was during the height of the covid pandemic, and I was recently out of work for over a year due to Lupus. The easiest part about landing the role was how passionate I am about the field and how much I really wanted this job at this company. Once I believed that I deserved it - I showed up fully.

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What was your biggest hurdle in breaking into the marketing/advertising world? (If any)

I think my biggest hurdle was an opportunity. I didn't know anyone who worked in this field so I didn't have access to a network that I could leverage. I was a mom, working full time, and attending school so I didn't have the privilege to intern. I needed a company that was willing to take a chance on me and grant me the experience I did not have.

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What are some tips you can give to young black professionals trying to start their own marketing/advertising careers?

The advice that I give to young black professionals is to network, network, network. I was trying to get into the field for over six years because I just didn't know anyone or have any connections- to attend conferences and workshops. Also for [work] experience if you are not able to intern then self-teach and build on your own experience - if you have a friend with an e-commerce business maybe ask to run their social media page or emails. Leverage the field you are currently in and search for opportunities that can support your skills and professional development.

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Favorite and least favorite thing about being in the marketing/advertising industry? (If any)

My least favorite thing is how this field is inherently not accessible to black people - it can feel as if there's gatekeeping to keep us out. My favorite thing is how this field is a gateway to other creative and lucrative fields. I started out wanting to work as a creative consultant for the industry and now I want to continue my career in data with a more tech focus. It is a field that is always evolving.

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Kepler Group is constantly growing and actively seeking diverse talent to fill our open roles. Search our current openings or learn more about working at Kepler.

‍Kepler is committed to making measurable progress toward Black equity in the workplace and our plans around this were recently approved for participation in the MLT Black Equity at Work certification.