PR for people, not just brands: Building a career that means something

What does it take to build a communications career that reflects your values, not just your resume?

In this Impact Council, the Impact Communications Institute and PR Girl Manifesto will bring together experienced communications, PR and media professionals for an honest conversation about creating a career rooted in purpose. 

The discussion will feature:

Michael Kaye, Global Director of Narrative & Communications at Match Group, with 12+ years of experience building integrated brand strategies that drive cultural relevance, media impact, and measurable business growth.

Kevin Wong, Chief Communications Officer at The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people.

Samiyah Malik, Communications & Strategic Initiatives Manager for Black Ambition, strategist, and creative leader with a Master’s degree in Strategic Design and Management from Parsons School of Design at The New School.

Together, they will share candid insights from across corporate, nonprofit and creative communications, exploring how professionals can find mission-driven opportunities, bring an impact lens into traditional organizations and transition into the growing social impact communications sector.

Designed for professionals at every stage, particularly emerging and early-career practitioners, this session will offer practical guidance, honest career insights and a clearer view of the many ways communications skills can be used to drive meaningful change.

What We’ll Unpack:

• Finding purpose-driven work: How to identify organizations, roles and opportunities that genuinely align with your values.

• Creating change from within: Practical ways to advocate for ethical, inclusive and responsible communications inside traditional companies and institutions.

• Making the pivot: What it takes to transition into social impact communications—and how to position your existing experience as an asset.

• Building a sustainable career: How to balance purpose, professional growth, financial realities and personal wellbeing over the long term.

• Navigating the early years: Advice for emerging practitioners looking to gain experience, build meaningful relationships and find their place within the industry.