SpeakerS

As a child of the streets, Soufiane Touzani grew up among "gabbers" and "mocro's", receiving clothes from Aunt Bep and Uncle Jan because his mother was raising him alone. Later on, Soufiane showed off his skills with Frenkie de Jong, Arjen Robben, and Cristiano Ronaldo. He is globally recognized as the pioneer of freestyle football, with his own TV show and over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel. "Whether I'm giving a presentation in a theater, at a youth detention center, or in front of international managers at ING, I can connect with everyone." Soufiane Touzani is a brand, but everything he does comes from the heart. "Authenticity must be preserved." Nowadays, he stays busy with FC Straat, which has over 60,000 members. With this, he aims to encourage youth to transition from "Watchtime to playtime", promoting more physical activity and less digital engagement.

Priya Ahluwalia is an award-winning Creative and Film Director of Nigerian and Indian heritage, who founded the contemporary label "Ahluwalia" in 2018, known for repurposing surplus and vintage materials. Ahluwalia has directed films for brands such as Nike, Vogue, Levis, and the London Design Museum.

Mari Koning and Joshua Petit of Soundsright are hosting the music stage. They're known for their music services, specializing in tailored music for brands. Located in the vibrant Amsterdam North, Soundsright is home to a team of four skilled music composers and producers, each bringing their unique talents to deliver high-quality work consistently. Besides that, Soundsright offers audio post-production services like sound design, mixing and voiceover recordings. In 2023 they were awarded the Buma Music In Media Award for Best Music in Advertising, an ADCN Bronze Lamp, and a Music and Sound Design Award.

Dutch Goal Keeper is a YouTuber known for content related to goalkeeping skills and tutorials, often focusing on training techniques, match analysis, and equipment reviews. He aims to educate and inspire aspiring goalkeepers by sharing his expertise and experiences. His channel also features interviews with professional goalkeepers and behind-the-scenes football content.

Romée Avril van der Veen is a freelance multimedia storyteller. She's active in the current dynamic media landscape as an art director and social videographer on the hunt for creative challenging triggers for a broad variety of clients like Vogue Netherlands, Amsterdam Dance Event, Love Stories, MixMag, Carhartt and Desperados. Her style reflects her personality in edgy looks inspired by the 00s and the flow of the show. Next to her professional life, Romée is a afro beats dj and aspiring artist.

Previously a rapper, Morrog is now one of the most popular Twitch streamers in the Netherlands with a huge community. He streams games and tech content. He also works for well-known brands, combining his passion for gaming and creativity as a content creator on Twitch.

It only took one failed mechanical engineering degree for Tomas Louter to know for sure that he wanted to pursue a future in the music industry. After a not-failed degree at the Haarlem Conservatory, Tomas started making sound design and music compositions at Media.Monks, working for the likes of Google, BMW and L’Óreal. Outside of work, Tomas produces and performs electronic music under the alias “Modo Mero.” Unlike the more energetic and upbeat sounds of his commercial work, Modo Mero’s style is atmospheric, melancholic and just a bit dark.

Iris Amber has had a deep fascination with Asia since she was young and has traveled there several times. She loves creating content there because Asia is often ahead of Europe in the latest developments and trends. Her talent for recognizing these trends at an early stage always gives her followers an advantage. This year, she is going to make her dream come true by living in Tokyo for three months, where she will extensively post about her experiences on her social media channels.

Caio Franchi is a Brazilian Executive Creative Director and Head of Creative Works Northern Europe, a Google team of creatives and strategists that collaborate with Brands and Agencies to create unskippable Ads for YouTube. His 19 year creative career started differently: a software engineer at agencies looking for innovation at 2000’s digital transformation. Always playing at the intersection of design, engineering and advertising to create compelling, empathetic and engaging stories that connect people to Brands.

Maxine Penney, a DJ, singer/songwriter, and cultural manager, creates inclusive music and educational content as part of the music duo "Goddess of Queens". A seasoned participant of the UK, Berlin, and Amsterdam club scenes, she fosters a community of creativity and diversity. Penney connects global creatives through her agency, FreshhhConnections, as a thought leader, moderator, and radio host. Currently, Maxine shares industry insights via 'Goddess of Queens Presents: A New Voice in Music', her monthly podcast.

Emma Branderhorst is a 27-year-old director from Amsterdam, renowned for her award-winning films like Spotless and Ma Mère et Moi. Her films have won prizes at Berlinale, YDA Cannes, and qualified for the Oscars. Emma also makes commercials on an international level, including a successful campaign for KPN, showcasing her expertise in intimate, character-driven storytelling.

Ezra Maätoke is a art director, graphic designer and film lover. There are various fields that hold his interest, but the common denomiator between these areas is the current human condition. Ezra most appreciates authenticity in brands and people alike.

Cece Wyldeck, a pivotal force in music, formed the dark-folk-rock band Wyldeck, headlining major UK festivals. As EMEA Director of Creative Development at MassiveMusic, she blends her love of film and music, launching "Pride Never Ends," and ensuring cultural relevance, inclusivity, and diversity in music for advertising. She has earned accolades like ADCN Jury President, Cannes Lions Jury, and more.

Shenubian Boasman is a creative director and mixed-media editor, creating mixed-media projects from music videos to short brand films and commercials. Inspired by exploring human aspects in nostalgic or humorous forms, she blends analogue and digital techniques to craft immersive visual narratives. Her style flourishes through personal inspiration, collaboration / diverse perspectives and influence from the latest cinematic trends.

Brendan Brouwer brings over a decade of experience in digital marketing and entrepreneurship. Known for his strategic prowess and infectious enthusiasm for gaming. Brendan brings a playful yet determined edge to every endeavor, making waves in how Gen Z interacts with media.

Street Art Frankey is a renowned artist based in Amsterdam, known for transforming everyday objects and spaces into whimsical, eye-catching art pieces. His work, often characterized by vibrant colors and creativity, has significantly contributed to the city's urban landscape, making art accessible and enjoyable for all.

Gwenda van Vliet is the Chief Marketing Officer at G-Star Raw, a globally recognized denim brand. She brings extensive experience in brand development and strategic marketing, driving the company's global branding and communication efforts to new heights.

Joris Kuijpers is a seasoned Creative Director with over 20 years experience in the advertising industry. He began his career at DDB, winning numerous national and international awards, including Lions and Lamps, for clients like Volkswagen, McDonald's, and Centraal Beheer. In 2018, Joris founded his own agency, The Family, while also serving as the Creative Director for G-Star Raw's marketing activities. Although now starting a new venture, he continues his role overseeing all creative output for G-Star Raw.

Natasha Greenhalgh, Creative Director and Co-founder Nxt Museum As the Creative Director of Nxt Museum, the first museum dedicated to new media art, Natasha connects daily with some of the most progressive and forward looking creators of today. Across a multidisciplinary spectrum (from artists, gamers, technicians, sound designers to performers), all use different tools to respond to and reflect on the times we live in. They offer the means to better understand contemporary complexities and explore possible futures. This is why I want to look closer with you at their pioneering practices and profound impact.

Tony Roodenburg Boakye is a social and creative entrepreneur and co-founder of Phatcamp, Common Culture, and Geuren & Kleuren Media. Tony is Dutch-Ghanaian, born in Bremen (Germany), and raised in a small village near Rotterdam. After studying in Breda, Tony eventually ended up in Amsterdam where he has been living and working as an entrepreneur for 7 years now.

Céline van Nes, a Strategy Director with 16 years experience, excels in both traditional and digital platforms. She has led high-profile campaigns, winning over 21 awards. Known for impactful ideas and challenging industry norms, Céline drives exceptional business outcomes through her innovative approach.

Björn Veldhuisen combines his expertise in digital media strategy with creative problem solving to transform challenges into results. He's known for synthesizing complex data into actionable strategies, but also his deep passion for gaming.

Dean Cooman has been in the media industry for over six years now, starting as a media consultant in the field of offline and online media before moving fully into new media. He currently holds the role of Head of Talent at Boomerang FT. where his main goal is to bring young creative talent to the forefront and make young talent realize that they deserve a seat at the table.

As a hybrid designer, strategist, and innovation consultant, François brings a wealth a unique perspective to help brands transform the way they connect with people. With over 13 transformative years in Asia, particularly in China during its economic boom, François Rousseau has been at the forefront of helping leading brands like LVMH, Nike, Coca-Cola, Budweiser, and L'Oréal differentiate themselves through innovative strategies. Passionate about revolutionizing brand-consumer connections, François collaborates with AI startups and partners with Microsoft, driving the future of AI-powered business and marketing solutions.

Poppy Mason-Watts is Chief Growth and Impact Officer at WaterBear - the media platform disrupting the landscape by helping people feel more connected to a future they want to take part in. Combining a diverse array of award-winning content with solutions, WaterBear tells real stories that make a real impact, inviting everyone to discover what role they can play in making a difference.

The Nüesch Sisters are an award-winning Swiss directing duo. With their twin-like connection, they communicate at times without words. They create films that delve into the essence of the human soul and with their eye for detail, they revel in creating intricate worlds and stories to be lost in.

Reuben Alexander is co-founder of BUUTVRIJ for life. An independent impact driven agency from Amsterdam. Renown for their work for: HandicapNL, Omroep ZWART, Auping, IKEA & Miele.

Stephania Karathansi is a Senior Client Partner at Spotify with over 10 years experience in marketing and advertising. In both Australia and Europe, she has supported global and local brands in their quest to become leaders in the digital arena through ideas, innovation, and audio.

Originally from Serbia, Milos Obradovic spent more than 20 years working between Milan, London and Amsterdam. He worked on local, regional, but mainly global clients spanning from Strategy, BTL, ATL, Digital, Social, Innovation and Entertainment. Milos’ work has won more than 200 local and international awards including more than 60 Cannes Lions and 12 D&AD pencils. He was a Jury member in numerous festivals including Cannes Lions, Eurobest, The One Show and Dubai Lynx. In 2022 Milos has been selected as a Top 5 most awarded Creative Director in the World by Cannes Lions.

Quinn and Aaron Bezemer, Dutch identical twins, are renowned influencers, content creators, and actors known for their presence on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. They started their social media journey in 2020, quickly amassing a following. Their fame grew further in 2021 when they starred in "The Even Bigger Slime Movie" and its sequels, achieving Gold Film status. In 2022, they were recognized as the top Shorts creator in the Netherlands by YouTube.

Marjolein Lankhout began as a physiotherapist but shifted her focus to communication and brand building. She has contributed to diverse organizations, from SOS Children's Villages to the Ruud van Nistelrooy Foundation, and from the Jane Goodall Institute to HandicapNL, advocating for positive change for both people and chimpansees.

Luuk Roks is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Phatcamp, Geuren & Kleuren Media, Common Culture and Festival Academy. These are all companies or nonprofits that operate in the field where the creative industry meets the social domain. Everyday, he works on creating solutions for societal challenges by using knowledge, skills, and network gained in the creative field.

Caroline (Fish) Fisher leads communications for ASICS in EMEA. Since joining ASICS in 2019, Fish has focused on putting its ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ purpose at the heart of all communications, resulting in award-winning and impactful work. Fish’s career started in PR at London-based agencies Firefly and Porter Novelli. After moving to Amsterdam, Fish joined TomTom as VP of Communications before co-founding a strategic brand consultancy focused on brand-led communications.

Francesca Wallis is a Global Client Lead at Publicis Media. Known for her excellence in global media planning she specializes in developing strong global account strategy, resulting in engaged teams who produce innovative media campaigns. Francesca guides clients to connect their business challenges with media opportunities, using media as a lever for accelerated growth.

Maartje Weijers has a background of over 15 years in nightlife and the creative industries. After working as a nightclub marketeer, she switched to advertising and was a part of the Boomerang team for five years where her last role was Head Of People & Culture. In the midst of the covid pandemic, she started her own brand partnership agency called Table For Ten, together with her long-time friend and founder of Milkshake Festival, Marieke Samallo. Table For Ten focuses on creative brand partnerships between brand and events that cater to a diverse audience and works with brands such as Mastercard, TikTok, Dopper and KPN. Besides running the agency, Maartje is also part of the Milkshake Festival team, focusing on strategy and business development.

Marc Pieterse is a Brand and Communications Strategist at Boomerang & Publicis Amsterdam. With over 15 years of experience in traditional brand building, he excels in expanding brands into new frontiers. Marc specializes in rejuvenating brands that require a significant boost and need some oomph. As an Enneagram 2-7 (The Enthusiastic Helper), he is a collaborative team player who fosters enthusiasm and curiosity to maximize the effectiveness of each strategy and campaign.

Rocio Sanchez is a multicultural brand strategist and multilingual digital marketing expert. They are the founder of Marketing by Rocio, a digital marketing agency that seeks to empower and provide branding services to LGBTQ+ and POC-led businesses. Rocio holds a Bachelor's Degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology in Marketing and Communications, and a Master's Degree from Parsons School of Design from The New School. They have worked with a number of LGBT-focused brands like the HER dating app, as well as the leading LGBTQ+ business news site, Queerency.

Steph Morrow (she/her) is the founder of brand consultancy STUDIO WORROM, that works across work across brand, culture and communications strategy and gives 10% of its time and profits to LGBTQ+ initiatives. As a queer woman, Steph is particularly committed to LGBTQ+ right and pushing DE&I conversations forward. When she's not doing brand strategy, she's playing in queer dance band Nat Bed. Prior to starting her own consultancy, Steph was Head of Strategy, Western Europe for VICE's in-house agency, as well as working at creative agency Anomaly in both Amsterdam, and New York, where she's from.

Jan-Willem Vosmeer is the Global Sustainability Manager at The Heineken Company. He oversees the company's sustainability strategy, 'Brew a Better World,' engages with stakeholders, and drives the Social Impact agenda. He also leads Heineken Open & Proud (HOP), the LGBTQI+ Employee Resource Group. Jan-Willem has a background in crisis management, brand PR, and employee engagement, with experience at BBDO. He holds degrees in Communications and Organisational Anthropology and has completed executive courses at Erasmus University Rotterdam and Harvard Business School. Jan-Willem is involved in various foundations and represents HEINEKEN in the Dutch Sustainable Growth Coalition.