A key takeaway? Human relationships remain at the heart of influencer marketing. Trust, authenticity, and brand congruence continue to be the pillars of successful influencer-brand partnerships, even as AI-generated influencers enter the space. An expert panel moderated by Associate Professor Grace Wang included:

• Rebecca Camhi – Influencer Lead, Unilever (Dove)​​​
  
• Rebecca Weissman – Senior Counsel, Loftus & Eisenberg
• Nekia Nichelle – Founder & CEO, The N Brand Agency
• Jenny Heinrich​ – Founder & CEO, Jenny Heinrich LLC consultancy, Influencer Relations Adjunct Faculty​

​​The discussion focused on the advantages and drawbacks of AI-driven influencers, sharing examples of brands that have successfully leveraged them—and those that have struggled. They also tackled the ethical and legal complexities of AI-driven content, particularly in health and wellness marketing, emphasizing the need for responsible communication when promoting medical or wellness products.

Topics also explored representation and inclusion in AI-created influencers, the pitfalls of a lack of diverse and authentic voices, and the value of aligning purpose-driven influencer partnership with brand values and consumer expectations.

"AI is reshaping influencer marketing, offering new possibilities but also raising critical ethical and legal questions. At the core of every successful influencer-brand relationship are trust, authenticity, and responsibility. While AI can enhance strategies, it can never replace the human connections that make influencer marketing truly impactful. Influencers are not just brand ambassadors; they are cultural voices and social actors in today's public sphere, shaping conversations, influencing perceptions, and driving meaningful engagement." – Associate Professor Nur Uysal, Director, Center for Communication Engagement​

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