2026 Creative LIAisons Onsite Panels & Speakers
Kwame Taylor-hayford
Co-Founder
Kin
Brookyln
Topic: The Rise of Independents: What Independence Means Today
Independent creative leaders from different markets and cultural backgrounds explore how the meaning of independence is evolving beyond agency ownership. The panel will discuss creative ownership, entrepreneurship, visibility, risk and the freedom—and responsibility—to build on one’s own terms. Drawing on experiences across agencies, startups and emerging technology, the speakers will share their journeys and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the next generation of independent creatives.
About Kwame:
Kwame Taylor-Hayford is a creative executive and entrepreneur who believes the strongest brands show up consistently, contribute meaningfully, and build trust over time.
He is the Co-Founder of Kin, a creative company that works at the intersection of innovation and culture to help brands earn their place in people’s lives. Kin’s partners include Delta Air Lines, Wikipedia, Intuit Mailchimp, Ben & Jerry's, and the Obama Foundation. Under his leadership, Kin was named Ad Age's Purpose-Led Small Agency of the Year (Silver) in 2022. Previously, Kwame led the creative discipline at Chobani and held leadership roles at Sid Lee, Anomaly, and Saatchi & Saatchi.
Kwame has been recognized as one of Adweek's Architects of Culture (2026), Adweek's Creative 100 (2022), Ad Age's 40 Under 40 (2020), and Crain's New York's Notable Black Leaders (2021). He was inducted into the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement in 2019.
Kwame is deeply committed to expanding access to creative opportunity. As a board member and 2025 President of D&AD, the globally renowned nonprofit representing the pinnacle of creative excellence, he championed initiatives that expanded pathways into the industry for emerging talent. He also serves on the board of SATURDAY MORNING, the nonprofit he co-founded to challenge racial bias through creativity.