It’s hard not to smile watching Starbucks’ new campaign, #ItsStartsWithYourName. While the brand may have gained a reputation for getting names wrong, this campaign shows they are striving to improve. Directed by Gaurav Gupta, the heartwarming 2:04 minute video features a touching interaction between a transwoman (played by Siyaa) and her estranged family (Rip Kapadia and Avantika Akerkar).
Directed by Gaurav Gupta, the 2:04-minute video shows a short interaction between a transwoman (played by Siyaa) and her estranged family (Rip Kapadia and Avantika Akerkar). The contact name and photo on the father’s phone of a man named ‘Ankit’, immediately followed by the entry of a young woman who joins them, quickly tells the audience of the premise. Here is a father meeting his child, who has struggled to accept. But, as the family waits for their order, the father notes, “Your habits have not changed”, almost as if he were reminding himself.
The short film delivers powerful messages that resonate with anyone who has ever felt different or marginalized. It emphasizes that people should not be defined solely by their gender identity and that acceptance begins by seeing beyond our differences. The campaign highlights that it’s not difficult to call someone by the name they prefer, and small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
The casting of Siyaa, a trans model, in the lead role, is a significant step forward for the on-screen representation of the LGBTQ+ community. This campaign inspires warmth and acceptance, reminding us all that even small gestures can have a big impact on someone’s life.
Despite the negative comments, the campaign’s message of inclusivity and love has struck a chord with many viewers for being a step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in advertising.
