Hello Young Pros, 

Welcome to our first newsletter of the year. As we head into a new season, we’re leaning into growth; the kind that happens when you raise your hand, get in the room and stay curious. 

In this issue: 

• A Quick Take on why showing up matters more than having it all mapped out 
• Upcoming Young Pros events  
• New ARF research on how gender cues influence AI recommendations 
• Young Pros Spotlights featuring Dylan Lettie (LiftLab), Sofia Tarasiuk (Skelar), and Noah Carr (Milgard School Of Business – University Of Washington, Tacoma)
• Meme of The Month 

And now, a message from our Board Chair. 

………………

Spring has a way of shaking loose the status quo, and right now the advertising research landscape feels ripe for fresh thinking. From the evolving role of AI in how we gather and interpret insights, to the ever-shifting ways audiences engage with brands, there’s no shortage of fascinating challenges for us to dig into. 

This quarter, I want to encourage you to embrace discomfort a little. The most valuable insights rarely come from the most familiar methods, and the same is true for how we grow as professionals. Raise your hand for the project that feels just out of reach. Offer a perspective in the room where you’re the most junior voice. Those are often the moments that define a career. 

I’m continually inspired by the curiosity and drive this community brings to the work. Let’s make this quarter count! 

Cheers, 
Gillian 

Gillian Kenah 
U.S. Customer Pod Lead, Tracksuit 
Young Pros Advisory Board Chair 

Careers don’t change because of one big, dramatic moment. They change because you got in the room. 

The panel you almost didn’t go to because you were tired. 

The meeting where you weren’t sure you had anything smart to say. 

The networking event where you only planned to stay for 20 minutes… and ended up having one great conversation. 

That’s the stuff. 

Early on, it’s easy to think you need the perfect role, the perfect manager and the perfect five-year plan. But most careers are built sideways. Through exposure. Through access. Through proximity. 

You learn faster when you’re around sharp people. 

You get braver when you see how others think out loud. 

You start connecting dots you didn’t even know existed. 

Young Pros is meant to be that kind of space, a room where you can test ideas, ask better questions and stretch a little without needing to have it all figured out. 

And like Gillian said in her note above, growth rarely comes from the most comfortable moments. It comes from raising your hand when you’re not entirely sure you’re ready. 

This quarter, maybe the move isn’t overplanning. 

Maybe it’s simpler: show up, speak up, stay in the room. 

That’s where momentum happens. 

Jasmin Kloh 
Program Manager, Young Pros Program 
The ARF 

Join the ARF Women in Analytics and Young Pros for an interactive luncheon on March 19 during AUDIENCExSCIENCE. Board Members from both groups will lead dynamic, small-group conversations designed to spark connections and sharpen communication skills. 

In a fast-paced industry, collaboration and building strong relationships are crucial. Participate and explore practical strategies for networking, active listening, and leading conversations that drive work forward. 

You’ll build meaningful new connections, exchange career insights, and walk away with real-world techniques to strengthen your professional presence. Come ready to engage, learn from peers, and leave with tools to help you connect—and communicate—with purpose. 

March 19 @ 12:00-1:30pm ET • In-Person • People Inc., 225 Liberty Street, NYC

Join us for a transformative session focused on the powerful dynamic between mentor and mentee within the workforce. Through the lens of real career experiences, our fireside chat will delve into the journeys of professionals, emphasizing growth, the pivotal role of mentorship and innovative networking strategies, especially in the remote work era.

This event is crafted to provide insights and inspiration for individuals at any stage of their career seeking to enhance their industry knowledge and professional relationships. Don’t miss the chance to hear from seasoned experts and emerging talents. 

Mentorship has been key to his growth, helping him take feedback in stride and learn from those who’ve been in his shoes. Dylan also appreciates the camaraderie in the industry — even competitors can inspire collaboration. 

If money weren’t a factor, he’d be touring the world as a drummer, living out his dream as a traveling musician. 

Her proudest moments reflect a pattern of stretching herself, from her MBA and the Hassenfeld Immersion Program in India to her current role at Skelar. ARF Young Pros has helped her connect with peers and mentors, challenge her thinking, and explore industry trends, including at the 2025 Audience & Science Conference. 

Mentorship continues to guide her career, and her dream is to create scalable access to high-quality education—work she’s already advancing through her edtech role. 

He’s proud of leading a content strategy overhaul that drove 8x engagement, boosted enrollment 15%, and improved internal processes. Mentorship has shaped his leadership style and his approach to building positive work culture. 

If money weren’t an issue, Noah would combine creative storytelling, strategy, and community-driven projects into a single venture, all while traveling the world. 

Full Young Pros profiles can be found on the ARF Young Pros Spotlight page.

No formal career updates were submitted this issue. Here’s your nudge.
Promotions, new roles, certifications, speaking engagements, passion projects — we want to celebrate you. 

Have something to share? Send updates and photos to: [email protected] 

Let’s make the next issue packed with your wins.