Inspirational Women in Media

Meet Nino Reyes, a dynamic force in the media and marketing world, whose career stands as a powerful example of excellence. As an Afro-Latina journalist and digital marketer, Nino's journey is marked by her impactful contributions to both the entertainment industry and ad-tech spaces. Holding key roles at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and The Walt Disney Company, Nino's influence extends beyond traditional boundaries, as she continues to champion diverse voices and drive cultural narratives forward. Her work is a testament to her commitment to representation, authenticity, and the empowerment of underrepresented communities in media.

Please tell us about your very first breakthrough moment as a media professional? How did this experience shape your career so far?

Nino: My first breakthrough moment came when I began working at Universal McCann as a media planner. I think this moment opened my world to the media/advertisement industry. This is when I began learning the complexities of media planning and buying. Learning the back end part of marketing campaigns and how to properly strategize. I think this opened a million other opportunities for me.

You've worked with a variety of esteemed organizations and high-profile artists. Which collaboration stands out the most and why?

Nino: I think the article I wrote about NLE Choppa on Bleu Magazine stood out to me the most. I learned so much about him as an artist. Things that I never knew about him prior to doing research to develop interview questions. I learned about him being a holistic individual who prioritizes his mental and physical health, over everything - which was impressive to learn from an artist. I would also say, Casanova 2x. This is when I first started working with Bleu Magazine, and it was my first time styling a celebrity, which opened an opportunity for me to become a writer for Bleu Mag.

What is a super fun fact about yourself that many people are not aware of?

Nino: A fun fact about me is that I'm a dancer. I grew up dancing and loving the art form. I love music, the rhythm, the beats. I love to whine my waist and to feel music flowing through me - especially while in union with others. I feel like music and dancing are the best ways to get people together. It makes you feel connected and I find it to be very powerful.

What common mistakes do you see journalists make, and how can they avoid them?

Nino: One common mistake is failing to do thorough research before interviews. Journalists can avoid this by deeply understanding the subject's background and current work, which leads to more insightful and meaningful conversations. I think it's important to always make sure that you're politically and factually correct, at all times. I think this art has gotten lost with technology and social media - because today, everyone just believes what they see online, without finding a need to thoroughly research it.

Any marketing or media tips you can leave our readers at this time?

Nino: Authenticity is key. Whether you're marketing a product or telling a story, staying true to the core message and connecting with your audience on a personal level will always yield the best results. Also, find your niche. Find who and what you connect to. This is important, since it will help you find your purpose easier and faster. It is important that you find what you're truly passionate about and what you love, because it'll just make your work 100 times easier.

What more would you like to see from women in the media?

Nino: I'd love to see more women in leadership roles, guiding narratives and decision-making processes. Women bring unique perspectives that are crucial for a well-rounded and inclusive media landscape. Also, I would love to see more women in the media helping one another. Lifting eachother up and offering resources to one another.

What innovations or changes in the industry excite you the most and why?

Nino: The rise of digital platforms that allow for more diverse and independent voices to emerge excites me the most. These platforms are democratizing media, making it possible for underrepresented groups to tell their own stories. This allows for real artists who understand the business of it, to thrive.

What else would you like our readers to know about you?

Nino: I am deeply passionate about mentorship and spend a significant amount of time working with young women of color aspiring to enter the media industry. I believe in paying it forward and helping others find their voice in this space. I'm also a MOM - and I have a beautiful six year old son who is the most amazing and talented boy EVER!

What legacy do you hope to leave behind in the industries you've influenced?

Nino: I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment and inclusivity, where the stories of diverse communities are told with the depth and respect they deserve. I want to be remembered as someone who made a lasting impact by elevating voices that are often unheard. I want to be remembered as a woman who is devoted to her family and her community. A great mother. A great leader. And I want to be recognized for changing the lives of Black and Latino children across the globe (helping them elevate academically, socioeconomically, and etc.) I want to be recognized as a woman who has opened the doors in the media world and has opened endless opportunities for our community to thrive.

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