2024 marked the debut of the People Of the Year awards. This new distinction reflects on the individuals behind the work, in addition to the existing Brand, Agency and Nonprofit of the Year Awards. These winners didn’t simply participate - they led, inspired, and elevated their industries and communities.
Let’s revisit the highlights on the changemakers and innovators who are setting benchmarks for creativity and impact in their respective fields.
People of the Year
In a world where voices can reach millions, The OTYs’ People of the Year shine a light on those whose vision and influence are transforming industries and communities. From creators to advocates, these honorees prove that individuals can drive change on a global scale.
Creator of the Year: Jordan the Stallion
Jordan Howlett, known as Jordan The Stallion, has turned everyday moments into viral phenomena. He took digital platforms by storm this year with his humor and relatability, gaining over 35 million fans and 200 million monthly viewers.
Changemaker of the Year: LeVar Burton
LeVar Burton has spent a lifetime turning pages - both literally and metaphorically. From his work on Roots to the cultural treasure that is Reading Rainbow and his iconic role in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Burton has dedicated himself to advancing literacy and empowering future generations. As a changemaker in every sense, he reminds us all that knowledge truly is power.
Community Builder of the Year: John Suhar
John Suhar has played a key role in advancing ocean conservation and community development through his work with the World Surf League (WSL) and its nonprofit arm, WSL PURE. His work focuses on both marine conservation and the well-being of coastal communities, ensuring both the environment and future generations thrive.
Creative of the Year: Courtney Betley
Courtney Betley’s storytelling is as impactful as it is inclusive. As a fierce advocate for diverse voices and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Courtney uses her work to elevate underrepresented narratives and bring meaningful representation to the forefront of mainstream media.
Media Planner of the Year: Lisa Welborn
Lisa Welborn stands out for her ability to turn complex data into creative, high-impact campaigns. With a strategic mindset, she is known as one of the top media planners in the industry. As Director of Media Services at Civilian, Lisa has a keen understanding of audience behavior to navigate the digital landscape with precision and purpose.
Nonprofit Marketer of the Year: Adam Vasallo
As Chief Marketing Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Adam Vasallo played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the organization’s ‘It Takes Little to Be Big’ campaign, making it one of the most recognized in the nonprofit sector. Adam's passion for youth mentorship is evident in every aspect of his work and inspires countless people to believe in the power of small acts creating big change.
Producer of the Year: Kyra Knox
Kyra Knox’s work as a producer has created powerful spaces for dialogue, reflection, and action. She consistently uses her platform to highlight important societal challenges that are often overlooked. From addressing racial injustice to exploring environmental sustainability, Kyra’s projects challenge viewers to think critically and take action.
Strategist of the Year: Mike Nellis
Authenticity is at the heart of everything Mike Nellis does as Founder & CEO of Authentic. His strategy is grounded in understanding each client’s unique voice and bringing out the true essence of their brand. Mike's work proves that when brands remain authentic, they not only stand out but also inspire trust and loyalty.
Brands and Agencies of the Year
The OTY Awards go beyond recognizing individuals; we also spotlight the brands and agencies that turn visionary ideas into reality. These winners have set new benchmarks for creativity, innovation, and impact, proving that great ideas can change industries.
With great power comes great responsibility, their visionary ideas and powerful executions inspire us all to think bigger and act bolder.
Small Agency of the Year: Authentic
Authentic proved that small agencies can deliver outsized results. Their ability to consistently exceed expectations has cemented their status as an agency that punches above its weight. (P.S. If you haven’t yet, check out our interview with Mike Nellis, Founder & CEO of Authentic, on It’s No Fluke!)
Take a look at their standout work: White Dudes for Harris
Medium Agency of the Year: Critical Mass
Bold and imaginative, Critical Mass is redefining what it means to be a medium-sized agency. They’ve proven that creativity and strategic execution can enable medium-sized agencies to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with industry giants.
See their winning campaign:
Large Agency of the Year: Weber Shandwick
For Weber Shandwick, excellence is a habit. As one of the world’s top agencies, they deliver campaigns that move the needle and set the bar for the industry. At its core, their success lies in knowing what works and delivering it with precision and creativity. It’s a straightforward approach, but one that consistently achieves extraordinary results.
Check out their winning work:
Watch the Full Movie:
Small Brand of the Year: Sela
Sela’s triumph as this year’s Small Brand of the Year is proof that impact doesn’t depend on size. With campaigns that resonated with audiences far and wide, Sela proved that a strong purpose and creative execution can make major differences.
Take a peek at their impressive work:
Large Brand of the Year: Diablo IV
Diablo IV sparked a movement with one game, creating a blueprint for inclusive game design. Focused on accessibility and inclusion, they reshaped how games are developed and transformed the industry’s perspective on inclusivity. This breakthrough will leave a lasting impact on the future of game design for years to come.
Discover their most impactful work:
Hell Welcomes All | Accessibility in Diablo IV
Small Non-Profit of the Year: The Right to Read
Literacy is a right, not a privilege, and The Right to Read is committed to making that a reality. They tackle educational disparities head-on to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Their work serves as a beacon of hope and determination for learners everywhere, showing the transformative power of knowledge. Through relentless advocacy for literacy, they inspire change and empower communities to thrive.
Check out their standout campaign:
Literacy is Freedom: The Right to Read Social Impact Campaign
Medium Non-Profit of the Year: Smile Train
At Smile Train, every smile tells a story of transformation. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to provide free, safe cleft surgeries to children in need. With a footprint in more than 90 countries, they’ve helped millions of children overcome the challenges of cleft lips and palates. Their impact extends far beyond the operating table, ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and lead fulfilling lives.
Take a look at their best work:
World Smile Day 2023
Large Non-Profit of the Year: AARP Studios
With a focus on empowering the elderly, AARP Studios is redefining content creation for the older generation. They produce stories that celebrate voices overlooked, shedding light on the strength of lived experiences. With thought-provoking stories, AARP Studios is changing the way we view aging.
See what made them stand out this year:
4 Things a Disaster Preparedness Expert Has in Case of Emergencies
Comedian Finds Humor, Purpose in Caring for His Parents
Looking Ahead
In its inaugural year, the OTY winners have set a high bar and remind us of the incredible potential in every corner of our industry. From individual creators to agencies and brands, the honorees showed us what happens when passion, creativity, and purpose come together.
As we close the curtain on the first-ever OTY awards, we can’t help but wonder: who will rise to the top next year? The stage is set, and we’re already excited to see what’s ahead.
Here’s to celebrating greatness - and inspiring even more in 2025!
