In Los Angeles, the American Advertising Federation (AAF), a national organization representing 35,000 advertising professionals and home to the ADDY Awards and Advertising Hall of Fame, has exciting news. They’ve just launched a Los Angeles chapter in partnership with leading local agencies.
The American Advertising Federation Los Angeles
Key founding members, hailing from agencies like Giant Group, MOCEAN, Walton Isaacson, Hawke Media, RPA, Team One, TBWA/Chiat/Day LA, Ogilvy California, Clique-Now, The MRKT, Mixed Asian Media, IW Group, and Cal State Northridge, have come together to make this happen.
American Advertising Federation Expansion
AAF’s expansion into Los Angeles marks a pivotal moment for the organization. Their mission here is to serve as the unified voice for advertising. They aim to provide thought leadership, innovative programming, attract top talent to the field, nurture future industry leaders, promote diversity, and recognize excellence in advertising within the vibrant West Coast market.
This local chapter is especially dedicated to cultivating the next generation of advertising talent in Southern California, with a particular focus on supporting underrepresented and young professionals.
American Advertising Federation Party
To celebrate this exciting development, AAF Los Angeles hosted an official launch party on September 7th at Cara Hotel’s Bar & Lounge.
Chris Degenaars, President of AAF LA and Global Social Engagement at Giant Group, expresses his excitement, saying, “The AAF has been a big part of my career. It’s an absolute honor to have the opportunity to bring the American Advertising Federation to Los Angeles alongside an esteemed Board of Directors. We are working hard to bring truly inspiring and innovative experiences to the LA community, and can’t wait to share what’s ahead for the organization.”
Erica Coates, 1st Vice President of AAF LA and President of MOCEAN, adds, “I’m humbled to serve on the board of AAF Los Angeles. Together, AAF LA will celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the Los Angeles Advertising community, weaving together innovation, inclusivity, and imagination to celebrate our diversity and creative excellence. As we mentor, guide, and uplift emerging voices, we hope to improve our dynamic city while creating a more brilliant and equitable tomorrow in advertising.”
Raul Rio, 2nd Vice President of AAF LA and SVP at Walton Isaacson, emphasizes, “The relaunch of the American Advertising Federation’s LA chapter heralds a new chapter of creativity and connection. We’re committed to fostering inclusive and dynamic experiences that reflect the richness and vibrancy of Los Angeles’ advertising and marketing community. Together, we’ll write the next great story of innovation and inspiration in a city where dreams come to life.”
James Hidden, Advisor for AAF LA and Managing Director of Ogilvy California, adds, “David Ogilvy famously said ‘Hire Giants,’ and so Ogilvy LA is thrilled to support the AAF’s mission to nurture and empower the next generation of Giants. We live in exciting times for our industry, and it’s so exciting that tomorrow’s leaders now have a new, dynamic AAF community to grow with.”
Local advertising professionals and students eager to join this community can sign up for membership on the new chapter website, aaflosangeles.org/join.
About AAF Los Angeles:
Established in 2023, the American Advertising Federation of Los Angeles (AAF Los Angeles) unites the Los Angeles advertising community, focusing on diversity and young professional development, guided by their dedicated Board of Directors & Advisors.
AAF Los Angeles proudly stands as a member of the American Advertising Federation, headquartered in Washington, DC, known as the “Unifying Voice for Advertising.” The AAF boasts 140+ local clubs across the U.S., representing over 35,000 advertising professionals, all connected and led by the industry. With 200+ college chapters and over 4,000 student members, the AAF helps students kickstart their careers through various student programs.
