Diageo is on a mission to diversify the spirits industry! According to a press release, the global leader in beverage alcohol has teamed up with industry veterans Dia Simms and Erin Harris in order to build an inclusive and diverse economic initiative with the goal of creating the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs, executive leaders, and founders in both a sustainable and scalable way. Pronghorn is the name of the all-new partnership and it will create a standalone business with a primary focus on expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion within the spirits industry. “Diversifying the industry accelerates innovation and competitiveness, and our strategic approach to recruit, retain and advance the Black community and communities of color within the industry alongside Diageo North America couldn’t be more necessary and timely,” said Pronghorn co-founder, Erin Harris in a statement. “We understand first-hand the importance of being motivated and the critical need for ownership...
Every move corporate powerhouse Dia Simms makes is to create more opportunities for minorities and women. “Representation is sorely lacking, and I really believe it’s important that we make sure we repeat that over and over again — and change it. ” The former DeLeón executive was recently named the CEO of Lobos 1707, a luxe tequila and mezcal brand founded by Diego Osorio and backed by basketball star LeBron James. Simms’ inspiration for her journey began in East Elmhurst, Queens, where she had a front-row seat to Salt-N-Pepa who danced in a neighboring backyard. Witnessing this female duo grow into a global phenomenon subconsciously impacted her to see the power in culture and the almighty buying power of the Black community. Since then, Simms has served as the first president of Combs Enterprises and one of the few Black women to navigate the spirits world as an executive. So, how can Black women have a seat at the table? Simms suggests that “we build a bigger table.” Editorial...