AT&T and Hello Sunshine Empower Women in Shine Away

_{Inspiring partnerships foster genuine connection and create pathways for future generations through impactful stories and community-led events.}

Partnership between AT&T and Hello sunshine stands out as a powerful collaboration based on shared values ​​and common goals. Kellyn Smith Kenny, director of marketing and development for AT&T, highlighted the synergies between the two companies: “AT&T began working with Hello Sunshine in 2016. We wanted to get in on the ground floor with a company that resonates with our customer base. Our mission is to create meaningful connections among women, and we believe our values ​​align with theirs.”

Kenney emphasized AT&T’s commitment to engaging with communities that resonate deeply with its customers. The partnership with Hello Sunshine allows AT&T to work closely with a company focused on inspiring and empowering women. AT&T’s involvement from the beginning allowed it to support the growth and mission of Hello Sunshine, a true “ground floor” partnership that has flourished over the years.

This year the second one took place Shine on event, a two-day event that builds on the success of last year. More than a thousand participants immersed themselves in networking and connection opportunities designed to inspire and create paths for growth. The event featured curated rooms and panels with the participation of renowned representatives of the media, literature and business. Power list included Tatyana Ali, Dr. Thais Aliabadi, Brooke Baldwin, Andy Bartz, Sarah Blakely, Julia Boorstin, Kate Bowler, Lauren Ling Brown, Sydney Carter, Kerry Diamond, Kathleen Griffith, Dr. Mary Claire Haver, Francesca Haughey, Nancy Juyun Kim, Lauren Mackler, Gillian McAllister, Heather McMahan, Olivia Munn, Naomi Watts and many others. These influential leaders shared valuable insights on career development, personal growth and well-being.

Feedback from participants highlighted the impact of the event, with participants from all walks of life highlighting important moments and insightful discussions. In one impressive panel discussion, ably moderated by Kellyn Smith Kenny, Reese Witherspoonfounder of Hello Sunshine and Oscar winner Laura Dern And Octavia Spencer. The authenticity and emotional depth of this compelling session engaged the audience as three prominent women shared their personal stories, ideas and experiences. Kenny noted that the openness and vulnerability shown by the panelists underscored their commitment to community, creating a genuine connection with the participants. “Authenticity shows how much they value the community. They trusted the audience enough to share their personal stories,” she noted, highlighting how real connections can create a supportive and inspiring environment.

Hello Sunshine’s mission to uplift women and share diverse stories resonates deeply within the community. Kenny praised Hello Sunshine’s concept, recognizing the brand’s ability to create a very loyal fan base. By making Shine Away available online through platforms such as Instagram, Hello Sunshine ensured that those unable to attend in person could experience the spirit and inspiration of the event.

AT&T and Hello Sunshine deepened their collaboration through workshops and strategy meetings, creating community-focused experiences that brought customers and fans closer together. This partnership, based on shared values, has allowed both brands to forge a meaningful connection with their audiences.

Oscar winner Octavia Spencer shared her appreciation for Shine Away and Hello Sunshine’s efforts to create a community that supports women. “The community of strong women that Reese and Hello Sunshine have in turn nurtured and empowered has inspired me to continue to do this the best way I can. I couldn’t have more love and appreciation for women who support other women; this is what continues to create opportunities for us,” Spencer said.

Her passion for elevating the voices of diverse people was evident as Spencer reflected on her passion for storytelling: “I love stories that can come from anywhere—we all have a voice, and I’m honored to help others, especially those from diverse backgrounds.” countries to all marginalized communities, I want to help highlight stories from diverse backgrounds and demonstrate their strength, resilience and determination.”

The main theme of the Shine Away event was “Changing the Narrative for Future Generations.” Kenny emphasized the importance of creating an environment where women can thrive professionally, saying, “Investing in women is simply good business. Women-led companies have been proven to be more profitable and innovative. Repeating this history is key.”

Citing data showing benefits diverse leadershipKenney emphasized the power of companies that prioritize inclusion. “It’s about building a strong business that uses inclusive practices,” she said. Kenny also shared that companies with more women in leadership positions tend to outperform their competitors due to benefits such as higher profitability, increased innovation, and higher customer loyalty. “When women are successful, when women have a path to leadership, when women are target customers, these companies perform exceptionally well.”

AT&T has long been committed to promoting equal opportunity, investing in programs that promote leadership development and creating an inclusive culture that supports all employees. Kenny praised AT&T’s approach of tools, inclusion initiatives and a focus on psychological safety as critical to ensuring success in diversity initiatives.

AT&T’s goal, as described by Kenney, is to create a dynamic, sustainable business that brings greater opportunity to people. “If you believe in this, you must believe in inclusivity because inclusivity drives creativity, drives innovation and strengthens our connection to the communities we serve,” she said. She noted the contributions of women in AT&T history, including Dr. Shirley Jacksonwho was instrumental in innovations such as fiber optic cables and caller ID, and highlighted how these advances have improved connectivity around the world.

Kenny also mentioned that successful companies inspire others to adopt inclusive practices. By demonstrating the benefits of women-led teams, companies like AT&T are setting a positive example for the broader business community. “When they see companies that are performing better, they notice more women on their boards and in leadership positions. This encourages others to rethink talent development,” Kenny explained.

To measure the success of its Hello Sunshine partnership, AT&T is looking at customers’ in-person and virtual experiences, as well as post-event buzz. Kenney emphasized AT&T’s holistic approach to measuring the impact of its initiatives, focusing on meaningful participation and positive community response.

Reflecting on her inspiration, Kenny shared heartfelt stories of her grandmother’s resilience and her mother’s strong work ethic. “They taught me that hard work pays off and that you can be anything you want if you put your mind to it,” she said. Her dedication to mentoring, especially through the AT&T Mentoring Circle, demonstrates her commitment to community building. “It’s about paying it forward and creating a support network for each other,” Kenny added, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in developing a culture of empowerment.

Kenny concluded the conversation passionately about the impact of Shine Away and the movement being led by AT&T and Hello Sunshine. “We launched Shine Away to create deep and lasting connections. We hope the participants felt that sense of community,” she said.

The collaboration between AT&T and Hello Sunshine goes beyond sponsorship; it is a demonstration of their shared commitment to empowering women, strengthening authentic connections and transforming ways of life for future generations. Through initiatives like Shine Away, AT&T and Hello Sunshine, continue to lead the way to a more inclusive and inspiring future.