Sneaker enthusiasts from far and wide gathered at Wish for an electrifying evening celebrating the hottest kicks of the year. The anticipation leading up to the event was nothing short of exhilarating, with RSVPs selling out within the first two hours—a testament to the passion and excitement within the sneaker community. As attendees flooded into the store, they were greeted by an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. The turnout was nothing short of impressive, with sneakerheads, industry insiders, and newcomers eager to partake in the conversation.
The event kicked off with a bang as our panelists took center stage, each bringing their own unique perspective and expertise to the table. From co-founders to content creators, musical artists to marketing professionals, the lineup was nothing short of star-studded.
Leading the discussion was K.O, the Co-Founder of ATATF & Kickchella, whose vision has left an undeniable footprint on the sneaker community. Joining him was Harrison Nevel, a sneaker content creator whose insights and enthusiasm captivated the audience. Adding a musical flair to the conversation was Stalley, a celebrated artist whose love for sneakers is as infectious as his lyrics.
Sniper Jones, a bright personality known for his engaging sneaker content and hosting duties on OTE (On The Edge), brought his charisma and charm to the discussion. Simran & Melani, the founders of Made For The W, offered a refreshing perspective on inclusivity and empowerment within the sneaker industry.
Kaitlin Long, representing Timberland Global Marketing, shared invaluable insights into brand strategy and collaboration, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes perspectives that drive the sneaker market forward. Olajuwon Ajanaku, the driving force behind Eastside Golf, showcased the intersection of fashion and sport, telling stories of the inception and growth of his brand with Jordan Brand collaborations. Izzy Fathom, Wish's Store Manager, provided a retail perspective that grounded the discussion to the real world with consumer trends.
The panelists' passion and expertise shone through, sparking debates and discussions that continued long after the event had ended. But the Sneaker of the Year Panel wasn't just about discussion and debate — it was also an opportunity for attendees to engage with the community. The raffle for five golden tickets, exclusively available to attendees who made an in-store purchase, added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, with winners securing exclusive access to an upcoming sneaker release at Wish.
In conclusion, the Wish & ATATF Sneaker of the Year Panel 2023 was a success, bringing together sneaker enthusiasts from all walks of life to celebrate the passion, creativity, and community that define the world of sneakers. From insightful discussions to raffles, the event left an impression on all who attended, further cementing it as an annual event.