Zoila Darton

Zoila Darton is the Founder and Creative Director of WORD Creative, a boutique agency based in New York that specializes in culturally rich storytelling and experiential marketing. With over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry, Darton has transitioned from her role as Director of Marketing and Artist Relations at Mayimba Music to leading her own agency, which she established in 2017. Her work focuses on empowering marginalized communities and elevating their stories in the marketing landscape.

Background and Career

Born in Madrid, Spain, to a Jewish mother and a Jamaican-Panamanian father, Darton grew up in New York City. This diverse cultural background has significantly influenced her approach to storytelling and marketing. Before founding WORD Creative, she spent years in the music industry, where she was deeply involved in promoting Afro-Caribbean music and advocating for racial representation within the sector.123

At WORD Creative, Darton leads a team that creates impactful marketing campaigns for major brands such as Nike, HBO, Meta, and Foot Locker. The agency has gained recognition for its commitment to authenticity and community engagement, particularly focusing on narratives that resonate with people of color.234 In 2021, WORD Creative achieved over $1 million in revenue, marking a significant growth of 400% from the previous year.3

Philosophy and Impact

Darton believes in the power of storytelling as a tool for connection and representation. She emphasizes that multicultural stories are not just niche narratives but rather universal experiences that reflect family dynamics, struggles, triumphs, and joys. Her mission extends beyond mere representation; it aims to reshape how brands interact with diverse communities by fostering inclusivity both in front of and behind the camera.34

In addition to her work at WORD Creative, Darton is also known for hosting the "Feel Everything Podcast," where she explores themes of community and identity.45 Her entrepreneurial journey is characterized by a dedication to creating spaces where individuals can express their authentic selves and share their stories without barriers.

Conclusion

Zoila Darton's work exemplifies how creative leadership can drive meaningful change in the marketing industry. By prioritizing cultural storytelling and community empowerment through WORD Creative, she continues to inspire others to embrace their identities and share their narratives authentically.