For Reebok’s “I Am What I Am” campaign we developed a bold, culture-driven strategy designed to celebrate individuality, authenticity, and self-expression. It marked a shift from Reebok’s traditional performance-based positioning to one deeply rooted in lifestyle, music, and street culture, allowing the brand to compete directly with Nike and Adidas.
Our campaign’s core message was clear: people define themselves—not society, brands, or expectations. By spotlighting individuals who had forged their own paths in sports, music, and entertainment, Reebok resonated with a diverse audience and set itself apart from competitors.
A key component of the campaign was its influencer-driven approach, featuring cultural icons who embodied self-made success. Stars like Allen Iverson, Jay-Z, 50 Cent, and Lucy Liu served as the faces of the movement, reinforcing the message that staying true to oneself leads to success. Their involvement not only amplified the campaign’s authenticity but also helped Reebok forge a strong emotional connection with consumers. By leveraging these personalities, the brand solidified its place within the cultural conversation, making a lasting impact beyond the world of sports.
We also positioned Reebok at the intersection of sports, music, and streetwear, appealing to a younger, style-conscious audience. The campaign complemented major product collaborations like the S. Carter Collection (Jay-Z’s sneaker line), G-Unit footwear (50 Cent’s sneaker line) and DGK Skate (Stevie Williams skateboard and shoe line) —the first major artist-athlete sneaker partnerships. This fusion of sports and hip-hop culture reinforced Reebok’s credibility in the fashion and lifestyle space, giving fans a tangible way to connect with their idols. The campaign’s raw, documentary-style advertising further drove home the authenticity, featuring unfiltered conversations about success, identity, and self-belief.
The impact of “I Am What I Am” was undeniable. It expanded Reebok’s cultural relevance, transforming it from an athletic brand into a streetwear and lifestyle powerhouse. The campaign drove record-breaking sneaker sales, with Jay-Z’s S. Carter line becoming the fastest-selling sneaker at the time. Additionally, it set the stage for future artist-athlete collaborations, influencing later partnerships.
More than just marketing, the campaign became a movement—giving an entire generation permission to embrace who they truly are. “I Am What I Am.”