By: Nic Abelian

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of digital marketing, diversity and inclusivity are more crucial than ever. For Esteven Gamez, a proud LGBTQ+ Latino entrepreneur, these principles are at the core of everything he does. As the co-founder and CEO of Keen Social, a full-service multicultural digital marketing and PR agency, Esteven has built a company that delivers outstanding results and champions diversity and inclusivity in its strategies. His journey from Texas-born Latino to industry leader in Southern California is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and staying true to one’s roots.

A Journey Rooted in Family and Community

Esteven Gamez’s personal and professional journey has been profoundly shaped by the unwavering support of his family, particularly his parents, Eduardo and Ada Gamez. Their guidance and sacrifices allowed Esteven and his brothers to pursue opportunities that once seemed beyond reach. Reflecting on his upbringing, Esteven says:

“Growing up, I didn’t know anyone in marketing or advertising, especially as a Hispanic. In our community, it was uncommon to pursue higher education or careers in creative fields. A handful of the people I knew worked in the oil and refinery industries. I was fortunate to have incredible role models in my parents, whose sacrifices paved the way for my brothers and me. My father pursued his education and eventually became the Controller of a major refinery, while my mother flipped houses to help pay for our college education. My older brother, Eric, inspired me to strive for excellence, so I attended Texas A&M in College Station.

My grandmother, Aurora Barrera, had an entrepreneurial spirit, going door-to-door selling Stanley products as a side hustle. It was through her and my mother that I first glimpsed what entrepreneurship could be. Their support continues to inspire my brothers and me to reach for the stars.

Additionally, my younger brother, Bryan, was the first person in my family I ‘came out’ to. He made me feel comfortable in my own skin, teaching me that it was okay to be myself. And last but not least, Keen Social wouldn’t exist without my husband and co-founder, Chris Molessa. He believed in me even during times when I struggled to believe in myself.”

This deep connection to his heritage and family has shaped Esteven’s commitment to creating opportunities for others, especially those from Hispanic and LGBTQ+ backgrounds. As a trailblazer in marketing and advertising, Esteven understands the importance of representation and its power to inspire the next generation of young entrepreneurs.

Keen Social: A Multicultural Marketing Powerhouse

Keen Social, the agency Esteven co-founded with Chris Molessa, is much more than a digital marketing firm. It reflects Esteven and Chris’s values: diversity, inclusivity, and innovation. Based in Southern California, Keen Social is a full-service agency specializing in PR, social media, and multicultural marketing. The agency prides itself on being minority-owned and LGBTQ+-owned, making it a beacon for brands looking to connect with diverse audiences.

One of Keen Social’s unique strengths is its ability to blend creativity with data-driven strategies. Esteven and his team leverage data, analytics, and social listening to develop intelligent, impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences from all walks of life. Keen Social serves various industries, including tourism, travel, destination marketing, hospitality, entertainment, automotive, non-profit, and government. 

An essential success story under Esteven’s leadership is revitalizing the iconic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Through targeted social media and marketing campaigns, Keen Social breathed new life into the historic landmark, re-establishing it as a must-see destination. This achievement exemplifies the agency’s ability to combine creative flair with data insights to deliver tangible results.

The Power of Inclusivity in Marketing

Keen Social’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and multiculturalism sets It apart from other agencies. In today’s diverse marketplace, brands must communicate effectively with all types of consumers. Esteven recognizes that marketing isn’t just about reaching the masses and creating meaningful connections with individuals from different backgrounds. Keen Social specializes in crafting culturally sensitive, inclusive campaigns that resonate with underrepresented communities, making it a trusted partner for brands seeking to expand their reach.

As Esteven puts it, “Our goal is to empower brands to connect with diverse audiences in a way that feels authentic. We don’t just use diversity as a buzzword—we live it daily, in every campaign, and in every client interaction.” Keen Social’s ability to understand and embrace different cultures, identities, and perspectives allows the agency to produce campaigns that go beyond the surface, creating lasting impressions.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Esteven’s success with Keen Social is not only a personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for young Hispanics and LGBTQ+ individuals looking to break into the creative and entrepreneurial space. As someone who grew up without many role models in the marketing and advertising industry, Esteven is passionate about showing young people that they can build successful careers in these fields.

Through Keen Social, Esteven hopes to inspire the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs. He believes that by embracing their unique perspectives and talents, young people from underrepresented communities can bring fresh ideas to the table and drive the future of marketing forward. Esteven’s story proves that it’s possible to turn a dream into a thriving business with determination, creativity, and a commitment to inclusivity.

Looking to the Future

As the digital marketing landscape, technology and AI continue to evolve, Esteven and Keen Social are poised to remain leaders in the field, helping brands connect with diverse audiences in meaningful ways. The agency’s focus on blending data, analytics, creativity and soon AI ensures that its campaigns are innovative and effective. Esteven’s journey from Texas to Southern California, from a young Latino with big dreams to the CEO of a multicultural marketing powerhouse, serves as a reminder that representation matters—and that success is achievable for anyone, regardless of their background.

Keen Social is more than just a marketing agency; it’s a testament to the power of diversity, inclusivity, and creative vision. Under Esteven Gamez’s leadership, the agency continues to make an impact, inspiring the next generation of LGBTQ+ and Hispanic entrepreneurs to take their place in marketing, PR, and beyond.

Connect With Keen Social 

Website: www.keensocial.com
Instagram: @KeenSocial
Facebook: @KeenSocialAgency
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/keen-social/
Twitter: @KeenSocial

Connect With Esteven Gamez

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esteven/
Instagram: @ByronicHeroes
Threads: @ByronicHeroes

Published by: Josh Tatunay