The appointment of Brittni “Bee” Brown as senior director of public relations and events at 98Forward isn’t just a promotion—it’s a testament to what leadership looks like if Black women their rightful place at the helm. The largest Black-owned and women-led agency in Michigan has commissioned one of Detroit’s most accomplished media personalities to carry forward a legacy of stories that amplify voices often silenced. the edge. For Brown, this role is not just another step in his career; for him it was a return to a city and an institution that shaped his purpose.
Since founding the Bee Agency in 2011, Brown has established himself as a trusted creator of useful stories. His work with such notables as Detroit Vs. Everyone and Lip Bar have always centered the cultural forces of creativity, resilience, and excellence. These brands are movements that challenge ideas, change culture, and demand visibility. That’s the energy he brings to 98Forward, an agency with deep roots in Detroit and an unwavering commitment to using communication as a tool for equality and change.
“I am extremely honored to join 98Forward, an agency that builds on the extraordinary legacy of visionary Black women like Marilyn Horn and Georgella Muirhead,” the statement said. said Brown. “As a black woman, it is an opportunity to step into this role and continue their pioneering work of creating stories that are important. This opportunity allows me to work with a special team to expand voices of brands and organizations driving cultural impact, equity, and innovation, ensuring their stories inspire action and leave a lasting legacy.”
Brown’s words carry a lot of weight, especially in Detroit, a city with a long history of being the cradle of Black innovation and a battleground for social and economic justice. His appointment is a testament to 98Forward’s understanding that change at the top is important. A celebration of leadership by Black women, the profession is filled with integrity, cultural values, and a commitment to ensure that all voices are heard – not just the loudest or most powerful sources.
Founded in 1998 by Georgella Muirhead and Bob Berg as Berg Muirhead and Associates, the agency is primarily about serving the public through communications. When Muirhead and Berg passed the helm to Marilyn Horn, the agency’s transition to 98Forward was more than a name change. It marked the renaissance of history as a vehicle for social change.
Under Horn’s leadership, the agency worked with more than 200 clients in a variety of industries, from government to healthcare to entertainment, always bringing the same level of care and skills in all media.
Horn spoke of the importance of Brown’s addition, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome Brittni to the 98Forward family. His proven track record in specialized communications aligns well with our mission and core principles to do exceptional work for our clients. We believe his leadership will drive significant growth for 98Forward, including expanding our client services and enhancing our reputation as a leading voice in the industry.
This partnership between Horn and Brown represents what can happen when Black women work together to push the boundaries. It is a partnership rooted in mutual sharing, respect, and a shared vision for what is possible when equality is prioritized. For Brown, stepping into this role means standing on the shoulders of luminaries like Muirhead and Horn while carving new paths for the agency and the community it serves.
“The addition of Brittni to the team is exciting and consistent with the strategic growth vision we have set for the agency,” said Antonice Strickland, vice president of public relations and business development. “98Forward is joining forces and continues to create meaningful results for our clients, and the addition of Brittni’s experience, creative vision, and proven track record of elevating brands will enable us to amplify more voices, expand our reach, and continue to deliver positive results for us. customers.”
Happiness is well-founded. Brown’s work has been defined by his ability to see the big picture but not lose sight of the details that tell the story. His approach is not about generating noise for the sake of visibility; it’s about creating stories that matter, that inspire people, and that lead to action. That’s why his work is so useful, whether he promotes artists in the country or organizes advertisements for famous national brands. This is also the reason for his leadership at 98Forward as a natural extension of the agency’s mission.
As 98Forward continues to expand, its commitment to centering diverse voices remains unwavering. The agency’s recent work—from supporting Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield in 2025 to advancing the vision of Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden—emphasizes his role as a pillar of communication for leaders and organizations most involved in the region. By bringing Brown on board, 98Forward is doubling down on its promise of not just results but change.
Brown’s arrival also signals a broader shift in the PR industry, where black women are still rare. at decision-making tables. His role as senior editor is a reminder that representation is about more than optics, it’s about results. When led by black women, the stories told are richer, more authentic, and more reflective of the communities they come from. These are stories that challenge stereotypes, celebrate resilience, and demand justice. That’s what 98Forward has always been, and that’s what Brown’s leadership will surely expand.
The stakes are high, but so are the potential. Detroit is a city that knows how to fight for its future, and 98Forward is an agency that understands how to use that energy for good. With Brown at the helm of public relations and events, the agency is poised to not only expand its reach but also deepen its impact. Her appointment as more than a professional is a victory for all Black women who have been told to slow down, stay in her lane, or bide her time. This is evidence of the road we build, the turns we take, and the stories we tell.
This time is about heritage, but also about the future. It’s about what happens when Black women are given the education and foundation to lead without prejudice. It’s about the power of community, the power of teamwork, and the magic that happens when we refuse to settle for anything less than good. With Brittni Brown leading the way, 98I forward is not just about moving forward—it’s about paving the way for others to follow.
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