A new, proudly diverse digital and social media marketing agency, set up by a pair of married former Google Digital Garage trainers, has launched in Leeds with a pledge to play its part in making the internet a “better, safer and more positive” place.
Riot Us, established by Becky and Zoë Boyd, specialises in social media management and digital marketing strategy, alongside in-house training programmes and all forms of online content including copy for blogs and websites.
Becky is currently best known for her work with digital marketing agency The Social Media Geek, which she set up in 2013, and delivering digital skills training around the country for Google’s Digital Garage. She has worked alongside businesses of all shapes and sizes, from fledgling start ups to blue chip giants such as Google and Santander.
She said: “Social media is an ethical nightmare right now. Our philosophy is about playing our part to make the internet a better, safer and happier place for everyone. That includes encouraging businesses to stop spamming people with stuff they do not need or want.”
Becky added that the company will also have a strong focus on helping organisations doing social good, such as charities, to lead the way in being more ethical online.
The duo have collaborated with Born Ugly, formerly Elmwood Leeds, in designing the Riot Us brand: “Riot Us seeks to reflect what is going on in the world now with regard to activism, being more proactive and doing social good,” Becky said. “It is important that our name is reflective of the fact that we want to play our part in creating social change. We are not afraid about being inclusive or being labelled as so-called ‘woke.’”
Zoë Boyd, who has also delivered training for Google’s Digital Garage, is the new company’s head of content. She added: “While elements of the online world, such as social media, have caused harm over the past few years, they also have the potential to do significant good. At Riot Us we want to work towards creating an internet that’s better for everyone.”
Riot Us is offering businesses a free 30-minute consultation on their digital marketing needs, with more details available on its website.
