Meet the Founder

Dani Jackson-Smith is an award-winning creative powerhouse who champions justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within the industry and beyond.

Dani’s worn several hats over her career, ranging from her early days as a freelance videographer and reporter at WKBW ABC 7, covering events including the BET Hip Hop Awards and Rip the Runway. After college, she launched Street Knowledge Media with her friends in New York City, helping to launch the career of the late Nipsey Hussle.

Eventually, Dani moved home to Chicago, where she excelled at some of the world's largest agencies, including Leo Burnett, Havas, and Edelman. Most recently, as VP of Influence at Edelman, she led partnerships for brands including Starbucks, Noxzema, Del Monte, Barilla, and Pivotal Ventures. While VP of DEI & Multicultural Marketing, she developed cultural strategies for brands including Foot Locker and Church & Dwight. As a Sr. Producer, she produced experiences with Kellogg’s, Nintendo, and Samsung.

Dani has been recognized as the ADCOLOR Rockstar and Chicago Ad Federation Rising Star. She’s also won a Silver Addy and a Gold Clio for her brand production work. When she isn’t working, Dani volunteers as an auxiliary board member for Chicago’s oldest Boys & Girls Club, Off The Street Club.