ENTERTAINMENT – This spotlight series features T. Howard Foundation (THF) alumni working in Entertainment.
William Amoyaw (THF ’17)
Digital Strategist – Mediassociates
What do you enjoy most about your company?
There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that you are valued for your contributions and more importantly your voice is heard. At Mediassociates, we are constantly encouraged to voice our opinions.
In what way did this type of work interest you and how did you get started?
As someone who viewed ads as disruptive, especially while consuming my favorite content on OTT platforms (Hulu, Disney, etc.), it feels ironic that I found joy in the advertising industry. As a content consumer myself, being exposed to numerous ads constantly, I found it strange how these ads always found a way to target me based on my wants and needs. Like someone was listening in on my conversations or could read my mind. I began to do my research and speak to colleagues in the advertising world to discover the science behind ad campaigns and as well as all the millions of dollars that are invested in these ads. From the advertiser selling a product to the consumer, to the agency that focuses on media buying, ad tech, and publisher relationships. I found it fascinating to learn that ads didn’t have to be pestering or annoying, they can be tailored to an individual, fun, interactive and helpful. Who doesn’t want a hand in turning something that most people dislike into something that they find useful? My colleagues helped me identify companies within the advertising landscape and I began applying.
Has your career path been linear or non-linear?
My career started off in the real estate industry to broadcast television and then transitioned into the advertising world. With that said, I would consider my path as non-linear.
How has your affiliation with the T. Howard Foundation influenced your career?
After almost a decade since being accepted into the internship program, I would credit T. Howard for playing a significant role in what my career is today. As an “undecided major” student in college, I wasn’t sure what direction I was heading to until I realized I could have a career in the media/ entertainment industry. With the help of T. Howard, I was able to confidently present myself in professional settings, make genuine connections with professionals that inspired me. Not only did I gain mentors that guided me throughout my career development, I also made friends that I’ve stayed in contact with to this day.
What personal attributes have been essential to your career success?
Throughout the multiple ups and downs professionally and personally, I have felt that a positive mindset has been a major key to my career success. Being open-minded, adaptable and dependable has been extremely impactful in my career development.
Are you extroverted or introverted? How does this show up in your professional life and how has this trait benefited you professionally?
Most days, I would consider myself to be an extrovert and some days, I would say I’m introverted. This is contingent on the kind of workspace I’m in. When the culture is positive, welcoming and inclusive I find myself more comfortable engaging and opening to others. Being an extrovert has also led me to amazing opportunities for exposure and professional growth. When networking and building relationships, you never know how a person can impact your life. I have seen firsthand that “It’s not what you know but who you know”.
William’s Piece of Advice: Stay true to yourself and never waver in your self-belief no matter the challenge or obstacle.