Keep Walking Proudly

Johnnie Walker continues to take bold steps towards progressing equality with its latest campaign in partnership with Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Leo Burnett Australia and Herd MSL. With a mission to celebrate inclusivity and empower individuals to embrace their first Mardi Gras experience, Johnnie Walker proudly hosted the Debutante Ball for first-timers.

Recognising the diverse and nuanced reasons why some have yet to attend Mardi Gras, the campaign sought to provide a supportive and welcoming environment that celebrated the individuality and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Eight debutantes who represent a broad spectrum of identity, age, and geography were selected. They were then brought to Sydney to have their debut celebrated by the community at large.

The Debutante Ball merged traditional elements of a debutante event with the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras, resulting in a fabulous collision of old-world charm and new queer identity. By subverting expectations and embracing individuality, Johnnie Walker invited everyone to take their first steps towards Mardi Gras with confidence and pride.

Melissa Barry, Portfolio Marketing Manager at Diageo, said, “Johnnie Walker has always been a fierce advocate for progress – both societal and personal. As a proud partner of Mardi Gras, embracing this moment as a chance to celebrate the trailblazers who paved the way for others to walk proudly and connecting them to newcomers who’d be walking for the first time was something we were delighted to make happen. We wish all those who celebrated this year a happy Mardi Gras and stand proudly with the wider community as we continue to Keep Walking Proudly together.”

Stacey Karayannis and Rosie Stone, Associate Creative Directors at Leo Burnett Australia, added: "We have enjoyed subverting the traditions of a debutante ball, but what we’re most proud of are the debutantes. Being able to bring their stories to life, create connections between the debutantes and trailblazers from the community, and celebrate their moment in front of a proud and welcoming crowd has been such a privilege.”