From dreams to reality: McKay joins Cannes Lions Jury

AUCKLAND, Today: Cannes Lions just dropped the names for its 2024 juries, pulling in global hotshots to sift through the world’s coolest and most effective creative works this June in Cannes.

Raymond Otene McKay, the creative genius behind RUN Aotearoa, is hitting the Design Lions jury. “When I first started in advertising nearly 20 years ago, Cannes Lions was a mystical place that only existed in a creatives dreams, let alone for an indigenous Māori creative like myself. I’m very proud that come June, I’ll be living mine during the week of festivities in the south of France”, Raymond spills.

He’s not rolling solo; five more Kiwi jury members are joining the party.

Cannes Lions isn’t just a party; it’s where the world’s creative brilliance gets its moment in the spotlight, no matter the industry or global corner.

“When I first started in advertising nearly 20 years ago, Cannes Lions was a mystical place that only existed in a creatives dreams.”

This year’s jury lineup is the most diverse ever, showcasing leading talents from an all-time high of 54 markets – with Armenia, Ghana, Pakistan, and Panama making their debut.

Meet the Kiwi Jury for Cannes Lions 2024: Simon Vicars is rocking the Audio & Radio Lions as President, and Matty Burton of DDB Group NZ will judge the Brand Experience & Activation Lions. Rory Gallery from Special NZ takes on Creative Strategy, while Raymond Otene McKay of RUN Aotearoa dazzles in Design. Brett Colliver of Dentsu Creative covers Direct Lions, and Christie Cooper from The Monkeys Aotearoa, backed by Accenture Song, dives into Entertainment Lions for Music.

Set your calendars for the 71st Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, happening 17-21 June in Cannes, France.

• Full juror list at canneslions.com/awards/jury

About RUN
RUN is a Māori-owned, women-led, globally-awarded creative agency. It focuses on creating quality strategy and creative solutions for brands and organisations, bridging the gap between te ao Māori and the commercial advertising and design world.

• runwithrun.com