Michael Jackson: Founder of Mya Kai Creative and Executive Director of The Zay Project
Michael Jackson, aged 39, is the Founder and Creative Director of Mya Kai Creative, an advertising agency in Phoenix, Arizona. The agency specializes in strategic marketing, branding, creative design, storytelling, digital campaigns, experiential activations, and content production. Additionally, Jackson serves as the Executive Director of The Zay Project, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering change through art, culture, and STEM for youth and underserved communities.
As a child, Jackson aspired to create TV commercials and work with brands like Nike. His pivotal career transition was realizing he could build his own opportunities by starting Mya Kai Creative. Jackson tackles challenges with a solutions-first mindset, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and persistence.
His first professional honor was winning an ADDY Award in 2015. Jackson's biggest career challenge was establishing one of Arizona's first Black-led advertising agencies without a built-in network or industry connections. Through persistence, self-education, and relationship-building, he overcame this challenge and built a successful agency.
A significant gambit that paid off for Jackson was starting Mya Kai Creative from scratch, investing in relationships, and taking on challenging projects. He believes in betting on oneself and staying consistent to achieve success.
Jackson enjoys recharging by working out, watching movies, and spending time with friends. Outside of work, he serves the community through The Zay Project and mentors aspiring creatives and entrepreneurs. His advice for success includes betting on oneself, staying curious, building relationships, and remaining resilient.
People may be surprised to learn that Jackson was a college athlete and tried out for NFL teams. His most strategic career move was creating his own seat at the table by founding Mya Kai Creative and The Zay Project. Professionally, his biggest win has been receiving honors such as AAF Phoenix Creative Person of the Year and Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40, recognizing his perseverance and impact in the industry.