First Generation Conversation
Benjamin Evans of Airbnb

Benjamin is an inclusive design lead — a new generation of problem-solvers tackling issues like racism, sexism, and bias built into the products we all use every day. He utilizes design thinking to help everyone — from creative professionals to business leaders — create more inclusive products and services. He believes that diversity of experience is the key to not only building better, more profitable products, but also creating a more equitable world. Currently, he leads design for Airbnb’s Anti-Discrimination team — a team tasked with ensuring that all hosts and guests have equal access to amazing experiences.

Rich Tu is the Vice President of Digital Design at MTV, a member of AIGA NY’s Board of Directors, and the host of the First Generation Burden podcast. Rich is a first generation Filipino-American and award-winning artist residing in Brooklyn, NY. He is a graduate of SVA’s prestigious Illustration as Visual Essay program and received the “Young Guns” award from the Art Directors Club, which recognizes the world’s best creatives under the age of 30. Creatively, his focus is on emerging audiences and energetic brands that benefit from an eclectic and unique point of view.