COMMUNITY
LGBTQ+ professionals, entrepreneurs and creators have long brought insight and authenticity to the promotional products industry. Their experiences have helped push our industry toward greater inclusivity, representation and collaboration.
We are proud to celebrate their contributions and the important role promotional products themselves have played in the ongoing march toward justice and equality.
Just like the products our members create and source, we believe in the power of connection to spark joy and bring people together. During Pride Month and every day, we celebrate diversity by fostering a culture of belonging, where collaboration and teamwork thrive and every voice is valued.
Just like the products our members create and source, we believe in the power of connection to spark joy and bring people together.
During Pride Month and every day, we celebrate diversity by fostering a culture of belonging, where collaboration and teamwork thrive and every voice is valued.
Distributors spotlight bold, inclusive products they consistently turn to and that they’d like to try for future projects.
The sun isn’t the only thing coming out in June. For decades, the month has been commemorated as LGBTQ+ Pride Month. It’s a time to celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals, complete with inspiring events, lively festivals and rainbow-hued fêtes of all kinds.
While many companies rebrand their social media pages with candy-colored hues during June, brands can create more memorable connections with logoed products.
Around the world, the month-long celebration honors LGBTQ+ culture, achievements and activism.
It was during 2021’s PPAI Expo Direct-2-You that Ed Hamner first heard about the possibility of being a member of PPAI’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force.
It is not surprising that many of the clients for whom that message resonates with also value the opportunity to work with companies with diverse ownership. But they want to see certification to back it up.
A year after Target and Bud Light drew backlash from conservative corners, other brands are still loud and proud when it comes to celebrating their LGBTQ+ customers.
Although President Trump has targeted inclusivity efforts at both the federal level and private sector, promo pros counter that the data shows having a diverse workforce only strengthens businesses.
PPAI technology partner SAGE allows Association members to source products from thousands of industry suppliers. Users can filter the product search engine for ESG and diversity certifications, including:
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group increases the visibility of underrepresented groups within the promotional products workforce and inspires industry business leaders to embrace inclusive, unbiased business practices.
Nicole Rhooms serves as PPAI’s Human Resources Director, bringing over 20 years of experience in driving organizational success through strategic human capital management. She holds a master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Law from Arizona State University, with a specialization in Human Resources. With deep expertise in all aspects of HR, Nicole has consistently demonstrated a proven track record in talent acquisition, employee development, leadership coaching, and organizational development.
Throughout her career, Nicole has partnered with senior leadership to align HR strategies with business goals, fostering a positive and productive work environment while optimizing workforce performance and engagement. Known for her ability to navigate complex challenges and build strong relationships across all levels of the organization, she is passionate about creating innovative HR solutions that drive sustainable business growth.
Serving as the chief technology officer of Sonline since 2014, Suri Anantharama is a PPAI volunteer. He began his term on PPAI’s DEI Action Group in 2024.
PPAI volunteer Derrick Hamilton is a member of the executive team at distributor LeaderPromos. Originally joining the firm in 2020, he currently serves as its vice-president of business development, inclusion & sustainability.
An ecommerce operations expert, Tricia Johnson is the director of enterprise programs at distributor Myron. A PPAI volunteer, she first joined the promotional products industry in 2017.
Pennsylvania-based Lauren LaMantia is a human resources manager at promotional products distributor Gordon Sinclair.
The vice-president of people & culture at Canada-based distributor Genumark, Jean Steffanazi first joined the promotional products industry in 2018.
Originally beginning her career with SanMar in 2002, PPAI volunteer Natalie Tenner is currently a credit manager at the industry supplier, and its Diversity & Inclusion Council Chair.
In coordination with the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group, PPAI is working to make the promotional marketplace welcoming to all. What other culture and heritage celebrations would you like to see recognized throughout the year? Email us.
The Association is driven by members like you. Industry volunteers play an essential role in defining our strategy and shaping the industry.