Introducing NYX Awards'

United States

Vitaliy Yakin

CEO, Creative Art Director and Motion Graphic Designer, Vitaliy Yakin

Vitaliy Yakin has amassed nearly 15 years of experience in computer graphics and motion design.

Throughout his career, he has contributed to numerous international projects and has been featured as a speaker at various global events. In addition to his hands-on work, Yakin possesses teaching experience and has often served as an expert for diploma defenses and certifications at an art college. His client portfolio includes prominent names such as Apple, Microsoft, Logitech, SAMSUNG, various automobile brands, and IT corporations. He also brings extensive experience from working in television, music shows, and the film industry.

Yakin's career in computer graphics and motion design is a vivid reflection of his immense dedication and passion. His tireless commitment to the craft is evident not only in his professional pursuits with leading companies like Apple and Microsoft but also in his eagerness to mentor upcoming talent in the industry.

United States

Anthony Wiktor

Senior Creative Director, Stride Inc.

Anthony Wiktor, a skilled Senior Creative Director at Stride Inc, an education company focused on online and blended learning solutions, showcases his talent in his role.

With more than ten years of acclaimed expertise in website design, Wiktor has engaged in projects spanning a wide range of sectors, from entertainment and consumer goods to hospitality and technology. His impressive client portfolio boasts renowned names such as FOX, ESPN, Nestle, and W Hotels.

Furthermore, he is a regular guest lecturer at USC's Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism and holds a position on the board of the Los Angeles Chapter of AIGA. Beyond his extensive and varied background, he dedicates his time to mentoring numerous aspiring designers, renowned for his patience and effective teaching approach, coupled with his remarkable attention to detail.

United States

Jonathan Winbush

Motion Graphic Artist, Winbush Immersive

Jonathan Winbush, a distinguished motion graphic artist, directs the creative brilliance of Winbush Immersive, his independently operated studio.

Winbush shapes immersive visual experiences that captivate audiences and brings to life a diverse range of projects that showcase his unique style and storytelling prowess. He has collaborated on numerous prestigious projects for renowned studios including Marvel, DC Comics, Warner Bros, Hasbro, Happy Madison, Discovery Channel, History Channel, and others. In 2011, he earned recognition as one of the top 25 artists in Hollywood and received multiple accolades and awards for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

His artistic contributions have gained acknowledgment in various publications and multiple art institute brochures. He has actively participated in public speaking engagements for institutions such as the Art Institute and Siggraph, while also contributing to The Rant Room Podcast. Jonathan has generously conducted free workshops for orphaned and homeless children through the Create Now Foundation.

Switzerland

Birger Linke

Global Campaign Leader,

Birger Linke holds the position of Global Campaign Lead at RHYTHM 108, where he also regularly delivers lectures on marketing and advertising in addition to his involvement in design projects.

As the Global Campaign Leader, he directs a diverse in-house team of creative and marketing professionals spanning offices in Geneva and London. Their mission is to introduce consciously crafted vegan chocolate and cookies, the first of their kind in Switzerland, to a global audience.

With two decades in the communication industry, Linke has worked on both agency and client sides as a creative and marketer for renowned organizations such as Springer & Jacoby, Saatchi & Saatchi, JWT, Leo Burnett, Ogilvy, and BBDO Interone. He founded TBWA\Vietnam and is a partner in the headphone startup Lynxsonic, earning him multiple awards for his dedication.

United Kingdom

Anthony Jones

Creative Director, The Drawing Room Creative

Anthony Jones holds the role of Creative Director at The Drawing Room Creative, a company renowned for providing highly influential creative solutions in the United Kingdom.

In his capacity as the creative head of diverse and proficient creative and development teams, this role entails responsibilities such as team and line management, operational oversight, creative direction, strategic planning, art direction, and process management. He remains actively engaged in the creative process when necessary. Throughout his career, he and his teams have garnered accolades for their exceptional work, collaborating with globally renowned brands like ghd, BP, EA Games, DHL, Financial Times, Michelin, Nissan, Barclaycard, CITI Financial Europe, Shell, Crown Paints, Virgin, and LG.

Jones is dedicated to delivering high-quality and effective creative solutions for business challenges. His approach combines diverse perspectives, expert craftsmanship, and insight-driven strategy.

Chile

Pancho Gonzalez

Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer, Inbrax

Pancho Gonzalez is the co-founder and chief creative officer of Inbrax.

González, who studied advertising at the Universidad de Santiago in Chile and earned an MBA from the Berlin School at Steinbeis University in Germany, plays a significant role in shaping the creative industry. As the Chief Creative Officer at Inbrax Chile, a Board Member and Vice President at IAB Chile, and a member of the Marketing Circle at Icare, his influence extends across multiple facets of advertising and marketing. Additionally, his past experience as a board member of Achap (Chilean Advertising Association) underscores his comprehensive involvement and leadership in the field.

González has delivered speeches in various countries including Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina, Russia, Mexico, Germany, Sri Lanka, Guatemala, the United States, Japan, South Korea, the Czech Republic, Peru, and Chile. His global presence as a speaker demonstrates his commitment to sharing knowledge and insights in the field of advertising and marketing.

Brazil

Daniel da Hora

Professor,

Daniel da Hora is a highly acclaimed graphic designer known for his numerous awards and achievements in the field. He wears multiple hats as a creative and art director, an innovator, an accomplished author, and a dedicated professor.

Considered one of the most influential figures of his generation, da Hora brings two decades of expertise to his name. Beyond his many contributions to the advertising, marketing, and design industries, he also thrives as a visual artist, showcasing his work in both group and solo exhibitions across countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, England, France, and the United States.

He is a dedicated leader and mentor, known for innovation and results-driven approaches. With extensive experience in managing complex creative projects from start to finish, he combines graphic design, art direction, product, and business insights, fostering creativity, technology, and innovation. He inspires individuals and teams, leading by example.

Italy

Jurij Plavnik

CEO and Creative Director, F4F Creative Factory

Jurij Plavnik is the founder, chief executive officer of F4F Creative Factory.

With over 20 years of experience, Plavnik assumes a central role in driving the agency's vision and strategy across branding, graphic design, web design, and advertising. His leadership is not only executive but also deeply involved in directing the creative processes of the agency. With a portfolio boasting international clients such as Castelli Cycling, Lumberjack, Calzedonia, Spalding, and more, Plavnik brings a wealth of experience in delivering innovative solutions and solidifying the agency's standing in the realms of advertising and web design. Under his guidance, the agency has demonstrated its prowess in catering to the diverse needs of global clientele.

Leveraging his expertise, he has collaborated with esteemed brands such as Castelli Cycling, Lumberjack, Calzedonia, Spalding, and many others. His outstanding work has not only garnered recognition from these industry leaders but has also earned him prestigious awards.

Belgium

Sam De Win

Creative Director, Prophets Belgium

Nearly two decades ago, Sam De Win embarked on his professional path as a copywriter, contributing his talents to prominent agencies such as Euro RSCG United, Y&R, and BBDO.

In his time at Y&R, he co-created the iconic Devos & Lemmens campaign, featuring two characters in comedic radio ads for the brand's sauces—a hit series that has been a staple for over 15 years. While at BBDO, he penned the script for Belgacom's acclaimed TV spot "Who took my badges," cleverly blending English and Flemish into the catchy 'Flenglish,' leaving a lasting impact.

Rising to Executive Creative Director at Ogilvy Brussels, he led the agency to win its first Cannes Lion with groundbreaking work. He later served as Executive Creative Director at Serviceplan Benelux, earning multiple awards, before becoming Creative Director at Make Lemonade. His diverse portfolio covers TV, print, radio, and digital, delivering influential content for brands like Volvo, Mercedes, and Pepsi.

United States

Emaneul Kapp

Director of Operations, Stewards of Wildlife

Emanuel Kapp is the director of operations in the Stewards of Wildlife Conservation (SWC).

Participating actively in the day-to-day management, coordination, and execution of various projects is not only thrilling but also fulfilling. His recent journey to South Africa proved highly successful in gathering essential data for the Rhino Forever Project, significantly advancing their efforts to bring Southern White Rhinos to Texas. Additionally, he has the honor of collaborating with like-minded professionals in the field, as he attends trade shows to advocate for conservation initiatives and raise funds for both SWC and their conservation partners.

Through SWC, he has been provided with a platform that enables him to effect change, not only for African wildlife but also for species from around the world. His involvement in both in-situ and ex-situ conservation efforts has expanded his knowledge in the field and allowed him to contribute significantly to conservation on various fronts.

United Arab Emirates

Shadi Al Hroub

Founder and CEO, MENAMONSTERS

In the realm of branding and creative leadership, Shadi Al Hroub has emerged as an award-winning creative director and industry luminary with over 17 years of expertise, including a notable 9-year immersion in branding research.

With a diverse background encompassing creative direction, packaging design, and multimedia, this visionary has established collaborations with renowned global brands and organizations. His impressive portfolio features partnerships with industry giants such as Leo Burnett, Hilton Worldwide, Jordan Aviation, Jordan Duty-Free, Hublot Watches as well as esteemed NGOs like UNRWA, the International Trade Center (UN), Global Health Development, and USAID.

He has actively supported the industry's growth as a discerning judge for prestigious awards programs where he evaluated entries from industry leaders like DHL, Nivea, Pepsi, and Coca-Cola. As a respected professor at prestigious American universities, he shares valuable knowledge and experience with the next generation of professionals.

United States

Tracey Miner

Executive Producer, Miner Productions

Tracey Miner boasts over three decades of experience in the advertising industry and corporate event production. Currently aiding Silicon Valley corporations, he possesses a keen sense of the latest, most innovative trends in a fast-paced, quarterly-driven environment.

Following substantial experience in advertising in New York and event production in California's Bay Area, Tracey Miner established Miner Productions. Now a 30-year veteran company based in Nevada, MinerPro takes pride in its track record of orchestrating live corporate events and video projects for some of the globe's most renowned corporations, as well as assisting startups in their early stages.

Miner's dedication to his craft is exemplified by his 30-year journey from the dynamic worlds of advertising in New York to event production in California, consistently adapting and excelling in each sphere. His passion for innovation in corporate events and video production is a testament to his deep understanding of what captivates audiences in the ever-evolving corporate landscape.

United States

Laura Barrera

Founder, Journey, The Antidote Within

Laura Barrera is the creator of Journey, The Antidote to Within, a platform dedicated to enhancing health objectives through a combination of nutrition, premium supplements, lifestyle modifications, and advanced testing, all guided by the expertise of health coaches, nutritionists, and energy healers.

With a background in Communication and Art Direction, Barrera has overseen the successful launches of Zara Home and various global brands across 12 countries. As a seasoned expert in fashion and lifestyle branding, she empowers fashion brands to cultivate a captivating visual identity and impactful messaging. Barrera's proficiency allows these brands to authentically connect with their target audiences, resonating with shared values and aesthetics.

Barrera is an expert in communication, online marketing, health tech, corporate branding, and art direction. With a focus on effective communication strategies, she utilizes the latest technologies in health tech and excels in crafting compelling narratives and visual identities for corporate branding.

United States

Keisha Salmon

Executive Director, AIR

As the executive director of the Association of Independents in Radio (AIR), Keisha Salmon brings her distinguished leadership and reputation to the forefront of the organization.

With more than 15 years of expertise, Salmon has leveraged her background in marketing, communications, and advertising to craft purposeful and strategic campaigns, enhancing the overall branding of products, services, or organizations. Her extensive experiences, marked by both achievements and learning curves, enable her to discern the most impactful creative elements.

Her contributions to society are marked by a creative orientation, where she harnesses imaginative approaches to address societal needs. She navigates challenges with a process-driven mindset, ensuring that her initiatives are meticulously planned and executed. With a results-focused approach, she strives to make a positive and lasting impact on various aspects of society. Her combination of creativity, process-driven methods, and a focus on tangible outcomes reflects a commitment to shaping a better community.

Spain

Taejay Lee

Managing Director, Peculiar Frame

Taejay Lee, who is from Korea, entered the professional world through the gaming sector. While working at Min Communications, he played a pivotal role in the global commercialization of a 3D MMORPG and the establishment of an international game tournament spanning eight countries.

His quest for creative experiences led him to various cities including Bangkok, London, and Amsterdam, working at agencies like FCB, Saatchi & Saatchi, Nomads, and THEY. There, he refined his advertising expertise, creating campaigns that captured both clients’ affection and industry accolades.

In his eclectic career, Lee has directed an animal orchestra, enabled people to experience the taste of a cracker through sound, transformed every gamer into Leo Messi, created artwork using a vacuum cleaner, and designed a hoverboard race track for the F1 Monaco Grand Prix. His relentless innovation and dedication leaves a trail of groundbreaking and award-winning work in his wake.

United States

Vitaly Shytnev

Creative Director / 3D Artist , PREGMATE

Vitaly Shytnev, based in Miami, serves as a Creative Director and 3D Artist. With a career spanning 15 years, Vitaly has been at the forefront of producing award-winning work in advertising, projection mapping, motion design, and video and post-production.

His professional journey includes collaborations with various international agencies and productions, working alongside esteemed clients like Audi, Porsche, Maserati, Volvo, Stella Sport, Samsung, Adidas, and LG. Presently, he holds the position of Creative Director at PREGMATE, where he specializes in creating 3D stills and videos that effectively convey ideas to customers. His role involves driving excellence by infusing innovative and creative concepts into various media forms.

Shytnev's expertise in 3D artistry and creative direction is deeply rooted in his 15 years of dedicated experience, where he has crafted award-winning projects across multiple domains. His commitment to excellence is evident in his collaborations with high-profile clients and international agencies.

Germany

Philipp Nottelmann

Visual Designer, N+ DESIGN

Philipp Nottelmann serves as the brand experience director at the creative network of N+Design, where he contributes a wealth of expertise from various domains. His knowledge spans digital and brand identity, along with concept and art direction, and extends to interaction and installation.

As a visual designer at N+Design's creative network, Nottelmann demonstrates a profound cross-cultural competence that complements his interdisciplinary skills and mindset. His role involves a harmonious blend of digital design, brand identity, conceptual art direction, and interactive design, enriched by his ability to think across various cultural contexts. This diverse background has honed his solution-oriented approach, allowing him to effectively address and integrate a wide range of design elements in his work.

He is dedicated to developing solutions for a broad spectrum of clients, ranging from regional and global key corporations to businesses of all sizes and individual clients.

United States

DJ Summitt

Founder and Art Director, Summitt FilmWorks

DJ Summitt is the visionary founder of SummittFilmWorks, boasting an impressive record of awards and recognition as an art director.

Positioned at the intersection of different generations and spanning across diverse nations, Summitt skillfully combines cutting-edge methods, established design principles, a rigorous approach, global expertise, and a touch of that unique "x-factor" to propel his clients' projects and products beyond the confines of the screen and seamlessly integrate them into the lives of their audience.

His adaptability is underpinned by a strong technological acumen, boasting proficiency in Adobe CC, Avid, and Salesforce. Summitt exhibist a comprehensive grasp of industry best practices in UI/UX, SEO, mobile design, and HTML/CSS. His innovative spirit shines through, as he thrives on tackling challenges and continuously generating fresh designs, solutions, and prospects both for themselves and their organization. They approach their work with unwavering dedication resulting in a consistent track record of achievements.

Germany

Claudia Goergen

Managing Director, FILMUNIQUE Medienproduktion, GmbH

Claudia Goergen serves as the Managing Director of FILMUNIQUE Medienproduktion GmbH and boasts an extensive professional background spanning various media sectors.

With numerous years of professional experience in public relations, web development, and film production, Goergen has held pivotal roles within companies and contributed to various enterprises. Her expertise extends beyond recognizing the potential strengths of a campaign; she also possesses a discerning eye for identifying its shortcomings, whether related to feasibility or the ability to reach the intended target audiences. Her multifaceted experience equips her with a holistic understanding of media and communication.

She plays a vital role in establishing an atmosphere where every team member is encouraged to bring their distinct contributions, recognizing that this inclusive strategy is what drives innovation and the emergence of new concepts. The team excels at embracing individuality, promoting mutual respect, and nurturing trust among its members.

Portugal

Leandro Peixoto

Chief Design Officer, Polkamarkets

Leandro Peixoto is the chief design officer of Polkamarkets.

Peixoto spearheads and empowers all design functions, ensuring the delivery of seamless and optimal customer experiences within a customer-centric and innovative culture. Prior to this, he played a pivotal role in co-founding Infinit, a Brand & Digital Design atelier. Over the past two decades, he has led multi-disciplinary teams, aiding brands in the successful launch of B2C and B2B products and services. His accomplishments include multiple design awards and features in various industry publications.

He is an outstanding individual in his field, demonstrating exceptional leadership and inspiring teams with a strong emphasis on design excellence. He showcases a visionary approach, guiding and enabling all design functions to create seamless and customer-centric experiences. His remarkable achievements, including multiple design awards and features in industry publications, firmly establish Peixoto as an exceptional professional in the design realm.

Denmark

Klaus Sommer Paulsen

CEO and Founder, AdventureLAB

Klaus Sommer Paulsen has been active on several boards for years, including Themed Entertainment Association’s EME Division and International Board of Directors, and is working with educational institutions developing and designing educational programs from PBAs to MBAs. Klaus has been working with storytelling and media for more than 30 years and digital multimedia and experience design since the mid-1990s.

He is the author of Integrated Storytelling by Design: Concepts, Principles and Methods for New Narrative Dimensions, published with Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group in 2021.

For numerous years, Paulsen has been engaged on various boards, such as the Themed Entertainment Association’s EME Division and International Board of Directors. He collaborates with educational institutions to create and design educational programs spanning from PBAs to MBAs. With over three decades of experience in storytelling and media, he has been involved in digital multimedia and experience design since the mid-1990s.

United States

Andrea Ferguson

Founder, President and a UX Director, Stage and Screen Actor, AndiSites Inc.

Andrea Ferguson is the founder, president and a UX director of AndiSites.com, an award-winning website design and development agency. In addition to her work in web development, Ferguson is also an accomplished stage and screen actor.

With over two decades of experience, Ferguson possesses an intimate knowledge of web trends, the effectiveness of marketing strategies, and the key elements of exceptional websites. She has spent more than 20 years immersed in corporate communications, witnessing the shift from traditional print assets to the digital realm. AndiSites' clientele encompasses government entities, institutions of higher education (with a particular focus on community colleges), and prominent corporations.

She embodies fairness, open-mindedness, meticulousness, and a strong spirit of encouragement and support within the digital marketing community. She takes pride in the opportunity to acknowledge and reward excellence that contributes to the advancement and enrichment of our industry.

Singapore

Ronn Lee

Creative Partner, BEAMY

Ronn Lee is a versatile brand and design expert with two decades of experience in the field, spearheading projects in concept development, branding, graphic design, interactive media, and product innovation across various sectors.

As the co-founder and creative lead of BEAMY, a creative and branding agency with its main office in Shanghai and additional locations in Singapore and New York, she has showcased remarkable initiative. Her journey took her from Singapore to Shanghai, where she was inspired by the growing demand for creative and branding services in China, leading to the establishment of BEAMY. Before her time in Shanghai, Ronn served as an Art Director in Tokyo. Her professional path through Singapore, Japan, and China has provided her with a deep understanding of diverse work cultures and design approaches.

Ronn's contributions to the field have been recognized with over 100 international awards for design and creativity.

Ecuador

Jimmy Landaburu

Digital Creative Director, Ludikom

Jimmy Landaburu holds the position of Creative Director at Ludikom, engages in Digital Consulting at PRESS NETWORK, and serves as the Founder of Bross Studio.

Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working with some of Ecuador's leading agencies, including Maruri Grey, Norlop JWT, Lowe, and Y&R. Landaburu’s professional journey also led him to internships at renowned agencies such as Agulla & Baccetti, Y&R in Argentina, and Grey Brasil.

He has been invited by The One Club to serve as a Mentor for the Creative Bootcamp in New York hosted by Wunderman and the Creative Bootcamp in London hosted by Wieden + Kennedy. Furthermore, he has been selected to participate as a judge in some of the most prestigious advertising festivals worldwide. His dedication to the field of advertising is exemplified by his extensive experience, continuous pursuit of creative excellence, and active involvement in judging at prestigious industry events.

India

Shashwat Das

Founder and Director, Almond Branding

Shashwat Das, the founder and director of Almond Branding.

With a solid background in Marketing and over a decade of experience in leading Design agencies, he has developed the ability to impartially evaluate subjective design and creativity. His expertise lies in discerning what not only appears aesthetically pleasing but also effectively resonates with consumers, target audiences, and the market. His journey in assisting companies in launching new brands, revitalizing existing ones, defining market categories, and achieving business expansion has honed his skills in Brand Creation, Positioning, Brand Architecture, and Strategic Design Consultancy.

He possesses a strong foundation in creative advertising, design, PR, and a keen eye for impactful branded content. He remains up-to-date with the latest industry trends through diligent reading of blogs, journals, and active participation in relevant events. He possesses the capability to assess not only traditional forms such as print, film, and photography but also newer media and social media campaigns.

Canada

Thomas Jankowski

CEO, Medimap

Thomas Jankowski is acknowledged as a transformative digital executive with vast global corporate experience, encompassing comprehensive management and practical expertise across technology, product development, marketing, and sales.

As a forward-thinking visionary, he skillfully balances future-oriented strategies with present-day challenges, excelling in leadership and knowledge dissemination. Recognized for his innovative approach, he excels in transforming nascent technologies into thriving business opportunities.

He also shows a keen interest in areas like blockchain, cryptocurrency, AI, and IoT. He is passionate about converting concepts and data into tangible products, meaningful insights, and engaging experiences. His dedication is evident in his relentless pursuit of innovation, consistently leading the charge in integrating cutting-edge technologies into practical business solutions. His expertise is marked by a deep understanding of diverse technological domains, coupled with a proven ability to foresee market trends and translate them into successful strategies and ventures.

Malaysia

Jae Leong

Judging Committee Chairperson, International Awards Associate (IAA)

Jae Leong is the accomplished chairperson of IAA’s extensive judging committee.

As the chairperson, Leong assumes a leadership role, guiding the organization and spearheading initiatives to uphold quality and creative excellence in critical areas such as design, creative advertising, marketing communications, video production, and business. Additionally, she serves as a key award representative at IAA, consistently demonstrating success in overseeing assessments throughout her career.

She prioritizes the coordination of strategic arrangements among various jury panels, establishing herself as a standout figure in the industry. Demonstrating a keen sense of management, Leong has executed her role with precision, ensuring that each participant receives fair evaluations and unbiased assessments, underscoring the significance of integrity in maintaining the credibility of the judging outcomes. Furthermore, her collaboration with professionals globally has positioned her at the forefront of specialization, enabling the development of exceptional communication and relationship management skills.

United States

Shangning Wang

Design Project Specialist at UNDP, United Nations Children's Fund

Shangning Wang is a New York-based award-winning graphic designer, illustrator, and all-around creative. He focuses on commercial art, typography, illustration, branding, and poster art.

In the past few years, he also received more than twenty global awards for his work. His works were exhibited in many cities around the world. His design works have been published in many design magazines and featured on more than thirty graphic design blogs. His work has currently been featured by the Adobe InDesign 2020 as the Splash Screen.

Wang's passion for design is unwavering, driving him to continuously push creative boundaries and explore new artistic horizons. His dedication to the craft is evident in the more than twenty global awards he has earned, showcasing his commitment to excellence. With a firm belief that good design has the power to make a positive impact on the world, he infuses his work with boundless enthusiasm, dreams, and love.

India

Deepti Kshirsagar

Partner and Chief Design Strategist, TCT Branding

Deepti Kshirsagar holds the position of partner and chief design strategist at TCT Branding.

Kshirsagar leverages her extensive decade-long expertise in design and branding as the Chief Design Strategist at TCT Branding. She plays a central part in the development and execution of strategic design initiatives. Her impact extends to the successful introduction of several prominent global brands into the Indian market, showcasing her ability to drive brand recognition and market presence through thoughtful design strategies. She is involved in crafting innovative and effective approaches to design that elevate brands and create lasting impressions.

She holds the belief that design is evolving in tandem with culture, and the traditional view of design solely as aesthetically pleasing art needs to adapt accordingly. There is a fresh surge of enthusiasm for exploring uncharted territories in design and communication, and it is vital to direct this newfound energy effectively.

Japan

Masanori Eto

Director, Coordinator and Package Designer, ADBRAIN Inc.

Masanori Eto is the director, coordinator and package designer of ADBRAIN Inc.

With over 25 years in package design, he has ascended to the role of Creative Director for the Packaging Division at ADBRAIN, where he has contributed to both Japanese and international brands in Japan. Eto served on the board of the Japan Package Design Association (JPDA) until July 2022, where he was instrumental in public relations, leveraging design for regional development, and fostering international exchanges in the field of package design.

He has imparted his knowledge of package design and branding at various art schools and colleges across Japan—including Tokyo, Sapporo, Sendai, and Kobe—and in China, within cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, as well as in Taichung during the Asia Students Package Design Competition events. His upcoming endeavor involves educating web design students in branding and planning at Japan Electronics College.

Serbia

Nikolina Popovic

Lecturer,

Nikolina Popovic is a lecturer at Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Milan.

Popovic was a seasoned creative director with over 15 years of experience, specializing in the development of comprehensive marketing campaigns, re-branding initiatives, and design strategies for corporate identities. She is also skilled in storytelling and effective team management. Her expertise is complemented by her exceptional ability to collaborate across cultures and deliver compelling presentations, honed through her academic teaching background. Throughout her career, she has cultivated her professional journey within renowned networks such as Ogilvy, Saatchi & Saatchi, Leo Burnett, Grey, and Havas, gaining exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives. She possesses expertise in various aspects of creative direction, encompassing concept creation, team leadership, art direction, brand development, identity design, creative problem-solving, digital media, and strategic creative planning.

Her unwavering commitment to her profession is evident in her continuous pursuit of excellence and dedication to delivering outstanding results.

Austria

Markus Pargfrieder

Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Responsive Spaces

Markus Pargfrieder is the co-founder of and chief executive officer of Responsive Spaces.

Pargfrieder has been a stalwart in the digital and creative sector for nearly two decades, spending the bulk of this time at Netural, a top-tier digital agency in Austria. Advancing from over five years as Head of Multimedia Lab at Netural, he co-founded Responsive Spaces, channeling his expertise to the frontier where physical spaces meet the digital realm. Specializing in exhibitions, tradeshows, and events, Responsive Spaces thrives in environments where a unique area is devoted to conveying a narrative or message, often amplifying these stories with the strategic use of interactive and immersive technology.

He prioritizes the most crucial element in his work: the narrative. At Responsive Spaces, he upholds the principle that technology should always serve to elevate stories to new levels, rather than dictating the storytelling itself.

Russia

Aleksandr Tikhonov

Founder, Contorra Family

Aleksandr Tikhonov established Contorra, a web agency headquartered in Sochi.

In 2005, while residing in Ukraine, he embarked on his IT journey, initially working as a translator, rewriter, and copywriter. Over time, he progressed through roles in customer service, junior marketing, and business development. Then, in 2008, Aleksandr's passion for Drupal led to the establishment of Contorra, a web agency in Sochi. It started as a small, dedicated team that crafted some of Russia's most remarkable Drupal sites. Later, they honed their skills with Magento and WordPress, resulting in an impressive portfolio of 150 active customer websites by 2017, not to mention numerous logos and brand identities.

His commitment to staying abreast of industry developments and his passion for acquiring new skills have further enhanced his capabilities, making him more than capable to assess and make informed decisions in his adjudicatory role.

United States

Mark Bloom

Founder/Creative Director, A Willing Participant, Inc.

Mark Bloom leads as the founder and creative director of A Willing Participant Inc., an agency renowned for its diverse talent and capacity for juggling multiple creative projects, situated in the heart of Chicago.

Bloom brings over two and a half decades of experience as a creative expert, with a keen understanding of what drives a successful campaign and the acumen to execute it. His award-winning career spans high-budget commercials to straightforward single-camera testimonials, and his work in direct marketing has honed his ability to enhance client engagement through emails. His versatile writing has touched various sectors, from financial services to healthcare philanthropy.

His crowning achievement lies in venturing independently to establish his agency, a challenging feat in the current climate of ever-increasing competition. Despite the odds, he has thrived, spearheading a successful and expanding firm, backed by clients who have great confidence in their work.

Brazil

Augusto Jesus Correia

Creative Director and Mentor, Publicis Middle East

Augusto Jesus Correia holds the position of Creative Director at Publicis Middle East and serves as a mentor at the Miami Ad School.

Correia's dedication as an individual shine through in his dual roles as a contributor at Publicis Middle East and a mentor at the Miami Ad School. His commitment extends beyond his professional responsibilities, as he wholeheartedly embraces the role of an educator. Through teaching creativity and case video storytelling, he actively imparts his wealth of knowledge and expertise to the next generation of creative minds.

Correia's passion for nurturing talent and fostering creativity exemplifies his dedication to empowering others with the skills and insights needed to succeed in the advertising and marketing industry. His unwavering commitment to his craft has resulted in him receiving more than 500 awards for his outstanding work.

Italy

Patrizia Burra

Professional Photographer, Patrizia Burra Photography

Patrizia Burra is a renowned photographer that specializes in portraits and digital manipulation.
Over the course of her career, Burra has earned numerous international awards and honorable mentions. Her work has been featured in prestigious publications, and she has showcased her photography in both Italy and overseas. She holds the title of MQEP (Master Qualified European Photographer). This recognition is a testament to her exceptional talent and artistic vision.
Her work captures the beauty of the world around us, from the grandeur of nature to the intimate moments of everyday life. Her limited edition prints are highly sought after, as they are a one-of-a-kind piece of art that will last a lifetime. Her photography is a celebration of life, capturing the beauty of the world in a way that is both timeless and modern. Her limited edition prints are a perfect way to bring her art into your home.

United States

Yeon Yoon

Art Director, Amazon

Yeon Yoon, based in Los Angeles, is a creative professional working as an Art Director at Amazon, where he leads a variety of global campaigns and marketing projects.

His career started at Elephant, a fast-expanding digital agency, where he worked as an Art Director on projects for clients like Apple, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, and Comcast. Afterward, he relocated to Los Angeles to join Grey West, contributing to campaigns for Amazon, AWS, and Hasbro. Subsequently, Yoon took up a role at Snap Inc., where he concentrated on incorporating Augmented Reality into branding and marketing strategies.

While studying at the School of Visual Arts in New York, he stood out as a highly awarded student, garnering numerous accolades. His dedication to his craft is exemplified by his progressive career trajectory, moving from roles in dynamic agencies to leading significant projects at Amazon, all driven by his commitment to excellence in art direction and design.

Hong Kong SAR

Eunice Wong

Chief Brand Consultant, wowwowtank

Eunice Wong has extensive marketing & management experience as the C-suite in international brands, MNC media groups, and global branding/ creative/ communications agencies in Greater China & Asia. Her exposure covers B2C & B2B on financial products, consumer tech, retail & FMCG, travel & hospitality, lifestyle & luxury sectors with a stellar track record of business growth. Her marketing experience stretches from product development, market development, marketing communications, corporate communications, data application, strategic business planning. Her achievement in both mainstream and digital marketing received over 200 awards. She is also an active judge in international marketing awards and a popular speaker in universities.

United States

Alejandro Benzaquen

Director and VFX Editor, Creative Concept Lab, LLC

Alejandro Benzaquen is a global content creator with over 600 million videos!

Having maintained an active online presence for more than 8 years, he has leveraged his work on social media to collaborate with prominent brands, well-known artists, and influencers such as Lele Pons, Hannah Stocking, Markos, and others. He has also directed and edited music videos and lyric videos for popular singers like Joey Montana and Reykon.

Recognized as a "Wizard of the Networks" by international media, including the BBC, he has a keen eye for creative content and trends. He deeply understands the importance of visual storytelling, technical skills, and innovation in the digital sphere. Proficient in various creative disciplines like video production, editing, and visual effects, he excels in assessing and appreciating diverse creative works.

United States

Alexia Bregman

Director of Logic and Magic, The Bureau of Small Projects

Alexia Bregman is the Director of Logic and Magic at The Bureau of Small Projects.

Bregman possesses a sharp eye for creative brilliance, effective strategy, and a love for organization. She thrives on pushing creative boundaries, are passionate about branding and communication, and live and breathe marketing! Always on the cutting edge, she has a deep affinity for data and organization and Gantt charts.

Their unquenchable curiosity fuels their drive to continuously discover new horizons and remain an early adopter, always ahead of the curve. They thrive when faced with challenges and have a genuine affinity for interacting with people. As a bold leader and tireless innovator, they actively engage with their surroundings and embrace the uncharted. They firmly believe in striking a harmonious balance between creativity and analytics, always pursuing novel ideas that others have yet to explore.

Pakistan

Omar Qureshi

Creative Director, SadaPay

Omar Qureshi serves as the creative director for SadaPay.

Qureshi is a seasoned Marketing Communications (MarCom) professional, boasting over six years of both project-based and full-time experience in branding, content strategy and creation, as well as product marketing. He possesses a proven track record in research and project management, fueled by a deep-seated passion for assisting individuals in job searches, producing outstanding reports and presentations, offering creative advice to small and medium-sized enterprises, and developing innovative business solutions through design thinking.

Qureshi's role as Creative Director at SadaPay is marked by an unwavering commitment to innovation and a tireless pursuit of creative excellence. His drive is fueled by a desire to redefine the financial landscape through groundbreaking design and user experience. His dedication to his craft is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the fresh perspective he brings to each project.

Singapore

Debadrita Choudhury

APAC Partner, Gain Theory

Debadrita Choudhury serves as the APAC partner for Gain Theory and is a representative on the Global Senior Leadership Team.

Choudhury is seasoned professional with 17 years of experience in consulting, marketing, operations, and delivery, this global leader has a track record of establishing and managing international teams, cultivating and enhancing brands across various sectors, overseeing profit and loss, and fostering client relationships and partnerships across diverse functions. She possess an in-depth comprehension of the sales and marketing value chain within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Retail, Banking and Financial Services (BFSI), and Automobile industries. Their expertise spans multiple geographic regions, including APAC, North America, LATAM, Europe, and the Middle East.

The wealth of experience she has accumulated over the years serves as a powerful testament to her remarkable dedication and resilience, making her a truly remarkable and reliable individual in her field of work.

United States

Sofia Tavares

Chief Brand Officer, Preply

Sofia Tavares is the Chief Brand Officer at Preply, leading the company's transformation into a global iconic brand. Sofia has over two decades experience running global strategies in FMCG organizations worldwide. This includes serving as Senior Vice President of Brand at Delivery Hero, where she led all global brands including Talabat in the MENA region, PedidosYa in Latin America, Foodora in Europe, and Foodpanda in the Asia-Pacific region. Her work in the field earned her the Drum Awards for Best Design in 2021. Sofia has also worked as SVP of Brand, Head of Brand, and Brand Manager, at companies such as PepsiCo, Bacardi, Cadbury plc, Black & Decker, PetroChina and Maison Camus. Fluent in eight languages, including Spanish, German and Chinese, Sofia is originally from Portugal and holds a Master's degree in Marketing and Commercial Management from Fundació Politècnica de Catalunya and a Bachelor's degree in Marketing from IADE.

United States

Xiaobi Pan

Lead Designer, Amazon

Xiaobi (Iris) Pan is a globally-recognized pioneer in the field of Emerging Technology Design. She has been the inventor of the sound interactive Installation visited by over 1 million participants, the app that promises to plant 100 million trees on our planet by 2025, and a series of industry-leading new technology products and experiences. Currently a Lead Designer at Amazon, she is dedicated to using technologies such as Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence to revolutionize the consumer experience for both business and social good.

United States

Muhammad Moinuddin

Sr. Business Intelligence & Data Analytics Manager, RCG Global Services

Muhammad Moinuddin is a Business Intelligence and Data Analytics Manager at RCG Global Services, where he drives comprehensive market research initiatives for the healthcare practice and intelligent automation solutions. He crafts impactful reports for internal and external stakeholders, distilling complex data analyses into actionable insights that fuel strategic decision-making and program development. Muhammad also conducts meticulous competitor analyses, identifying strategic advantages and areas for improvement. He completed his master's degree in Business Data and Marketing Analytics at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where he enhanced his data engineering and business intelligence capabilities. Previously, he served as a Business Data Analyst and SAP Executive at K-Electric, applying his analytical and technical skills to support business optimization and customer retention. With over 7 years of experience in various domains including financial consulting, healthcare, IT, and airline, Muhammad has delivered insights, recommendations, and solutions using Python, R, SQL, Tableau, AWS, Google Analytics, and Machine Learning. He is passionate about finding opportunities and challenges in data and solving them with creativity and innovation.

South Korea

Hyeri Lee

CEO, Tinylami

Hyeri Lee, CEO of a design company, embodies a spirit of challenge and passion as she navigates various roles and endeavors. Currently serving as a research assistant at BK21, Pusan National University, she contributes to the Brain Korea 21c project aimed at talent development in the design field. Simultaneously, Hyeri leads 'tinylami' design company, fostering innovation and creativity in the industry.

Her journey to success includes achievements in beauty pageants, where she represented Korea as the 2014 Miss Korea Busan and Ulsan. Recognized for her contributions, Hyeri has received awards from esteemed organizations like the Panstar Enterprise Group. These experiences have shaped her identity and instilled pride in her Korean and Busan heritage, propelling her forward with determination.

Transitioning into a career in modeling and influencer marketing, Hyeri showcases Korean culture on a global stage. From representing Korean companies at international expos to engaging with fans at prestigious events like the Taichung International Motor Show, she brings Korean culture to life. Through her travels and experiences, Hyeri deepens her understanding of Korean culture and shares its richness with the world.