Thread by @Adweek

What does it take to go from NFL linebacker to top marketer? @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton talks with @ShannonL_Miller about his journey and Gatorade’s work to empower young athletes and make the sports world more equitable and inclusive. #Brandweek 🏝adweek.it/Brandweek22

Always be learning, always be focusing on your craft. For me that’s been both in sport and now in the sport of marketing.

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

Gatorade’s “purpose is around equity in sport, not just because it benefits us as a brand but because… in the words of Nelson Mandela, ‘Sport has the power to change the world.’”

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

Thornton talks about Gatorade’s recent, powerful tribute to @SerenaWilliams as she closes this 27-year chapter of her career in tennis.

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

There’s not enough media consumption of women’s sport, and there’s so much that needs to be done to elevate that.

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

Fuel Tomorrow is about “providing not only access to support but infrastructure and tools to make the impact beyond and communicating that it’s not just about turning pro, but it’s about sport and making an impact in your community.”

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

Gatorade’s Fuel Tomorrow initiative provides access to sports facilities and community programs while training coaches on how to be more inclusive. adweek.it/3BMuuPn

You can’t just sit on the sidelines and expect to develop a purpose-led initiative.

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝

Authenticity, relevancy and distinction:

• Know who you are as a marketer and leader and then align that to your values.
• Understand what stories are resonating with the next generation.
• Have something meaningful to say.

— @Gatorade's @KalenBThornton #Brandweek 🏝