207 | UK Enterprise Awards 2023 Apr23226 Best Social Impact Brand Marketing Firm 2023 - London Fulham-based DEFY Brands is a social enterprise branding consultancy that’s using its talents to strive for a fairer world. Founded in 2021, DEFY Brands is a purpose-led business ‘designing for good’. The company is in the business of building inspiring brands that create genuine positive impacts. Company director and founder, Suni Sekhon tells us more. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a notable shift in the way that many companies approach branding. Increased recognition of the role that businesses must play to address societal and environmental challenges has been pivotal. There’s growing emphasis on incorporating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), and ethical practices. This doesn’t only make the world a better place, it also enhances the reputations of the change makers, ensuring those businesses that take the lead are more attractive to consumers and prospective partners alike. But how do we translate our responsible attitude and honourable intentions into our branding? DEFY Brands offers creative, disruptive branding that sparks impact by putting the planet first. This female-led company is striving for ‘divergent design excellence’ and a fairer creative world where gender equality reigns. Suni tells us about the company’s values: “They are ‘future forward’, ‘driven by humanity and eco stewardship’, and ‘shaped by shared values and purpose’. Everything we do is about how we play a part in innovating for the future and advancing society. We’re mindful of the clients we work with and ensure all collaborations align with our shared values. Namely, to create a positive social and environmental impact. With regard to our own impact, we respect our planet and the equality of all fellow humans. We’re always looking for ways to harness new thinking, technology, and strategies to inspire ourselves and others to take action.” DEFY Brands offers opportunities for female creatives to level up the playing field and gives a voice to women in the design industry. Suni says, “When we design for the good of our planet, we put an end to disparity and encourage diversity in the industry. We strive towards greater gender equality.” To help demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, many SMEs are now seeking specialist branding advice from consultancies such as DEFY Brands. Suni says, “More and more UK SMEs are looking to embed sustainability in their businesses by investing in an ESG strategy. They realise it’s an important step towards making a difference for their employees, the people they serve, and the planet. SMEs with clear sustainable values are more attractive to investors and supply chains. They’re also primed to reap the government’s green business rate relief benefits.” DEFY Brands’ client base stretches far beyond the borders of the UK. Working with clients as far away as Canada, the USA, Israel, and Indonesia, Suni believes that being UK-based gives the company a distinct advantage. She says, “Businesses in the UK will always appeal to international businesses seeking cutting-edge creative thinking. British design has always been at the forefront of innovation. We shape the future with human-centred solutions at heart. We’re adept at uncovering new ways businesses can pivot into white space opportunities.” Recent clients of DEFY Brands include Redefine Meat – a business specialising in plant-based foods that look and taste like meat; Calysta – a company providing sustainable plant-based proteins for human and animal food; Aliet Green – a sustainable producer of organic ingredients; and the City of London Corporation – dedicated to supporting a diverse and sustainable London. At present, DEFY Brands is also working with start-up, AHET, which aims to eradicate gender bias through well-being. In her time in business, Suni has been fortunate to work with a range of high-profile institutions and organisations. But she recognises that having a background in further education can open doors that stay closed to many. She says, “There are many ambitious, underrepresented, enterprising young people who find it difficult to get their ideas and solutions to the forefront. DEFY is looking to change this. We are working with Social Enterprise UK and other supporting networks to introduce a new programme for social change in the future.” Visit the DEFY Brands website to find out how the company can help your ethical brand shine. Contact: Suni Sekhon Company: DEFY Brands Web Address: www.defy-brands.com
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