Jayme Headquarters, a newly launched creative agency in the Philippines, is redefining the industry by embracing uniqueness in ideas and fostering diverse talent development. Founded by Merlee Jayme, a globally acclaimed creative leader and former Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Asia Pacific, Jayme HQ is poised to become a beacon of inclusivity and innovation in the creative landscape.
Merlee Jayme’s illustrious career includes founding DM9 Jayme Syfu, the agency that brought the Philippines its first and only Cannes Lions Grand Prix. With Jayme HQ, she aims to build a team that values neurodiversity and thrives on the belief that “great minds think unalike.” The agency actively seeks and nurtures talent from underrepresented communities, recognizing that diverse perspectives lead to groundbreaking ideas.
Jayme also founded The Misfits Camp, a training center for neurodivergent and deaf creatives. Under her leadership, Jayme HQ will work closely with The Misfits Camp to empower individuals who have traditionally faced barriers to entry in the creative field. Sam Alapan, a professor at The Mint College, will now lead The Misfits Camp, ensuring its mission to equip neurodivergent creatives with the skills and confidence to excel in real-world creative workplaces.
Jayme HQ’s leadership team includes industry veterans and rising stars with personal connections to neurodiversity. Among the co-founders are:
- Edg Samson, a strategic client lead with extensive experience at Dentsu and Saatchi.
- Nikki Golez, an award-winning creative director and a recipient of the 4As 2024 Next Gen Creative award.
- JR Ignacio, a digital and innovation expert with an impressive track record at Dentsu and BBDO Singapore.
- Kheng Masangkay, a seasoned finance manager.
- Alex Cataluña, a promising young art director.
This dynamic team brings together a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to fostering creativity through diversity. With Jayme HQ, Merlee Jayme continues her mission to challenge conventions, inspire innovation, and create opportunities for individuals to shine in a truly inclusive creative industry.
Jayme HQ has already made significant strides by welcoming its first neurodiverse concept team, composed of Cesca Atienza and Kylie Milanes, both graduates of The Misfits Camp. Cesca, a talented graphic artist with autism, made a speech at this year’s Spikes Asia, and Kylie, a gifted poet of the best-selling book “Echoes,” brings unique perspectives and creative flair to the agency.
The Misfits Camp has also taken a significant step in transitioning one of its graduates, Igi Rollan, to an administrative assistant and social media manager position.
Chief Client Officer, Samson, said: “JHQ and TMC is a one-of-a-kind ecosystem that champions and showcases global standards of creativity, and diversity in thinking that in turn, fuel creative opportunities for the neurodivergent. It is an intimate set-up that allows for hands-on expertise minus the red tape.”
By embracing diversity and empowering neurodiverse talent, Jayme HQ is poised to become a leading force in the creative industry, pushing the boundaries of innovation and inspiring future generations. Now, the business of creativity has a real, relevant purpose.
