Cultural appropriation in branding isn’t just a PR risk—it’s a legal one. This CLE webinar, hosted by Harris Wolin of Myers Wolin and the International Intellectual Property Society, will help attorneys and brand professionals understand the nuances of Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs) and how to engage with them respectfully. Featuring Aparna Watal of Halfords IP.
Friday, September 12, 2025 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am ET (Zoom)
1.0 CLE Credit in Areas of Professional Practice
From motifs to music, Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs) are often increasingly referenced in design and branding, but without proper understanding, the result can be costly. Missteps have triggered consumer boycotts, media storms, and broken partnerships. This session explores what TCEs are, why they matter, and how to navigate the international legal and ethical landscape responsibly. With growing pressure on brands to act with integrity, this is a must-attend for attorneys, in-house counsel, marketers, and anyone advising on brand strategy involving TCEs.
Aparna Watal is a partner at Halfords IP practicing in Australia and New Zealand, where she leads the firm’s trade marks and domain names practice. She advises businesses, creators, and communities on protecting and respectfully engaging with Traditional Knowledge and TCEs, drawing on her legal expertise and her commitment to ethical brand-building. Aparna serves on the Indigenous Rights Committee of the International Trademark Association and regularly speaks on the intersection of intellectual property, culture, and commerce. With a background in chemical engineering, Aparna is one of the few trade mark experts in Australia and New Zealand who bring a uniquely robust technical foundation that transcends industry boundaries. Aparna has represented many of the world’s most valuable brands across a wide range of industries, with a particular focus on the following sectors: energy; chemicals and materials; manufacturing; pharmaceuticals; fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG); technology; automotive; media and broadcasting; and, telecommunications. Aparna is highly regarded for the commerciality of her advice and extracting the best outcomes for her clients in tricky and legally complex contentious and non-contentious matters.
Please RSVP by September 10, 2025 to harris.wolin@
It is NOT NECESSARY to RSVP to attend this webinar.
ZOOM LINK: https://us02web.zoom.
CLE WILL ONLY BE PROVIDED TO ATTENDEES THAT STAY FOR THE ENTIRE WEBINAR.
THERE IS NO CHARGE TO ATTEND.
