Natalie Tran Taps Hollywood’s Power to Mobilize Voters

Who are three women that inspire you?

My mom

Single moms

Gloria Steinem, of course!

What is one defining moment in your career or life that empowered you to create change, and how has it shaped the path you’re on today?

When we launched, I am a voter., in 2018, I don’t think any of us knew how big it could get. At the time, we had an idea to create a new narrative around voting that would allow for a younger generation to connect with being a voter through their favorite brands, athletes, and influencers. It stemmed from not feeling seen or having a connection to the traditional get out the vote campaigns, and we wanted something that we would want to share and wear with our friends. Over the years, we have had hundreds of brands and partners join our efforts such as the NBA, Urban Outfitters, AMC Theaters, Tory Burch, AWAY, billions of social media impressions and registered young voters in every state. It made me realize that a small, simple idea can grow fast. I loved seeing I am a voter. in other cities! Strangers proudly wearing our shirts, young people posting on socials, brands making merch. It also made me realize that movements must feel deeply personal. Everyone participating needs to feel like this is their mission and campaign – that it’s theirs to own and share!

As we look to the future, what is one key change or innovation you believe is essential for advancing equality and empowerment in your field?

Empathy and Courage.

Who is a woman who has inspired or mentored you, and what lessons from her influence have stayed with you?

My predecessor Michelle Kydd, who started the CAA Foundation in 1995. We were the first Hollywood agency to have a philanthropic arm, and the notion of corporate social responsibility did not yet exist in the entertainment industry. From the start, by putting the CAA Foundation as the cornerstone of the agency, it helped transform the way people interacted with each other and the business. Our north star has always been to create sustainable social change which has also allowed us to expand our impact beyond just our company walls and be in service to our clients and the larger community. She created the base for who we are today – which is a team that services our colleagues, provides strategic guidance to our clients, and incubates and leads national campaigns. We can evolve with the times, but it’s important to have the right intention from the start.

On a personal note, she has shown me what true servant leadership is. When I assumed the role of Executive Director, she helped establish me as a leader in my own light – by giving me the space to experiment and evolve the vision of our work and not be in her shadows. Her selfless nature has allowed me to see the impacts of good leadership firsthand and it’s what I try to emulate as I develop as a leader. 

What is the legacy you hope to leave behind as a changemaker and leader in your industry?

A diverse network of righteous changemakers who don’t take no for an answer!

In honor of Gloria Steinem’s 90 years of advocacy, what do you believe is her most enduring contribution to women’s empowerment, and how has it inspired your own journey?

Gloria taught me what it meant to make something your life’s work.

It’s so easy to get discouraged if you a campaign that doesn’t meet your timeline, or ones that fall short of your expectations. Her unwavering dedication to the feminist movement has shown me that real systemic change does not happen overnight. In a world where commitment is relative, she is a teacher to us all about staying the course and paving the way for a next generation.  She is a true treasure.

What does progress for women look like in your field, and what steps do you believe are necessary to keep that momentum going?

Progress is for women of all backgrounds and lived experiences to have multiple seats at the table – and that we sit alongside each other, linked as allies. I believe that if you are currently in a position of power and choice, it’s incumbent upon us to bring others along with you – so reach back, sideways and across the room. I also think having a sense of optimism and joy is key. Let’s celebrate each win – a promotion, a new role, a change in corporate policy, a new cohort of leaders etc. No win is too small, as Gloria taught us, the small things can lead to the big things!