FOUNDER | DANI@THECRE8TORS.COM

Dani Jackson-Smith is an award-winning creative powerhouse and a passionate advocate for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion both in the industry and beyond. With a career spanning major milestones, Dani has made her mark as a leader who not only drives innovative campaigns but also ensures that diverse voices are represented in every project.

Dani’s career began as a freelance videographer and reporter at WKBW ABC 7, where she covered high-profile events like the BET Hip Hop Awards and Rip the Runway. She later co-founded Street Knowledge Media in New York City, playing a key role in launching the career of the late Nipsey Hussle.

Returning to her roots in Chicago, Dani rose to prominence at world-renowned agencies like Leo Burnett, Havas, and Edelman. As VP of Influence at Edelman, she spearheaded partnerships for iconic brands such as Starbucks, Noxzema, Del Monte, Barilla, and Pivotal Ventures. In her role as VP of DEI & Multicultural Marketing, Dani developed groundbreaking cultural strategies for Foot Locker and Church & Dwight, ensuring that campaigns resonated with diverse audiences. As a Senior Producer, she led experiential projects for brands including Kellogg’s, Nintendo, and Samsung.

Dani’s exceptional work has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as an ADCOLOR Rockstar and Chicago Ad Federation Rising Star, along with a Silver Addy and a Gold Clio for her production work. Currently serving as VP of the Alliance of Independent Reps, Dani continues to champion the importance of diverse representation in the commercial industry, using her platform to drive meaningful change.

PARTNER | JENNY@THECRE8TORS.COM

A passionate team leader, Jenny Lumpkin’s career to date is filled with top tier talent, multi-platform productions, and infectiously good times. Lumpkin prides herself on being a 'Lift as You Climb' leader, empowering teams to perform at their fullest potential. Based in New York, Lumpkin works as a Managing Partner at The Cre8tors connecting clients with artistic talent to create stunning visual content.

Lumpkin is an active industry volunteer, mentor, and long-time supporter of the AICP. She has also served on several film festival committees, the AICP post-production board and is currently producing her 9th AICP Midwest awards show. With multi-generational family roots in advertising she enjoys celebrating the craft of commercial production.

Previously, Lumpkin was the Global Director of Production at Laird and Good Company, an Executive Producer at The Mill in their live-action and animation departments. Before that she opened Quriosity Productions, Post & Photography out of Chicago and Los Angeles with Founder, Qadree ‘Q’ Holmes. Select clients include: Google Fitbit, Meta, PepsiCo, Sony, William Grant & Sons, Toyota, Anheuser-Busch, McDonalds, Tropicana, Activision, Nintendo, Subway, Target and many more. Recognized for championing diverse and inclusive workspaces through active volunteering and industry mentorship.