Dillion S. Phiri

Developed forward-looking scenarios for inclusive AI ecosystems by engaging diverse stakeholders, integrating visual narrative and filmmaking.

Spearheaded community engagement initiatives across African creative networks to ensure culturally relevant and equitable AI development.

Contributed strategic insights to AI policy discussions, bridging technological innovation with social impact and creative expression.

Led strategic restructuring initiatives to optimize organizational efficiency and future growth pathways for Creative Nestlings.

Spearheaded fundraising efforts and cultivated key partnerships, securing resources for expanded pan-African creative programs.

Implemented operational enhancements to streamline workflows and improve the delivery of creative development initiatives.

Hosted and produced a 10-episode podcast series for Africa No Filter, generating discussions on migration, creativity, and innovation.

Facilitated conversations on visa-free travel within Africa and its impact on artists' expression, engaging a broad audience.

Researched and curated compelling content to explore diverse topics related to cultural mobility and creative development.

Conceptualized and launched a createch platform designed to connect creatives, attendees, event organizers, vendors, and venues, empowering community experience monetization.

Directed platform development and strategic partnerships to foster a robust ecosystem for creative and event communities.

Drove the vision for a scalable platform, focusing on user engagement and seamless interaction across diverse stakeholders.

Managed the onboarding process for over 100+ visual artists, facilitating their integration into the BetterShared platform.

Designed and implemented bespoke community programs and cohort experiences to foster artist growth and collaboration.

Served as the primary artist liaison, ensuring effective communication and support for the membership base.

Mentored small business ventures, providing strategic guidance to achieve responsible and sustainable growth objectives.

Facilitated business development and operational improvements for program participants, enhancing their market competitiveness.

Contributed to the overall success of the Edge Growth ecosystem by fostering entrepreneurial talent and innovation.

Founded and scaled Creative Nestlings, a pan-African platform that empowered over 100,000 young creatives and generated over $5.4 million in revenue through consulting, events, and content.

Established key initiatives including J&B Hive and The NEST Space, partnering with major institutions like J&B Whisky and British Council to expand reach and impact.

Published 'What It Takes', a book documenting the emerging creative class in Africa, and co-directed the 'Zero to A Hundred' documentary, showcasing innovation.

Developed comprehensive programs spanning design, tech, research, content creation, and funding, significantly contributing to infrastructure development for creatives.

Co-raised over R45 million in Pre-Seed funding from organizations like Telkom and J.P. Morgan, directly contributing to the creation of over 2,500 jobs across three tracks.

Developed and implemented programming and strategies for Accelerator, Pre-Accelerator, and Ideation Incubator programs, fostering entrepreneurial growth.

Contributed to marketing, events, and programming strategies, supporting over 30 startups and a 30-all-women Ideation Programme.

Supported Curatica in developing and executing creative projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and market trends.

Facilitated business development initiatives, identifying and engaging strategic partners to expand Curatica's reach.

Enhanced market access for the organization by developing targeted strategies and communication frameworks.

Managed the sales and marketing team, developing and executing strategies that supported business operations and growth.

Assisted the product team with user mapping and acquisition strategies, facilitating a successful startup platform launch.

Secured over R1 million in grants and established key distribution partnerships, significantly boosting platform reach and resources.

Led the mapping, design, and development of a new client services platform, automating 80% of routine tasks and significantly improving operational efficiency.

Collaborated with the CEO and product team to strategize and implement a new digital solution for medical services.

Supported the creation and refinement of pitch decks and investor relations materials, contributing to strategic funding initiatives.

Directed the organizational restructuring of VANSA, optimizing operational frameworks and strategic direction within a two-month tenure.

Developed and implemented strategies for new partnerships and innovative ways of working, enhancing VANSA's collaborative network.

Initiated and established new research projects, contributing to the organization's knowledge base and industry insights.

Curated and managed the annual Fak'ugesi Festival, overseeing all aspects from concept development to execution.

Collaborated with institutional partners, artists, and community members to successfully implement the festival program.

Managed the festival team and ensured efficient budget management, maintaining financial integrity for the event.

Researched and compiled comprehensive reports for committees, funders, and partners, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Conducted in-depth research on the viability of a new urban tech accelerator in Johannesburg, employing an ecosystem approach.

Organized and facilitated focus groups and public talks to gather critical insights and stakeholder feedback.

Produced a comprehensive documentary and report for MIN's Urban X team, informing strategic decisions on urban innovation.

Developed and executed the brand strategy for FREI x Creator Mobile, leading to the successful launch of a new mobile platform for creatives.

Created and cultivated the initial seed community, conducting product testing to refine features for the target market.

Managed remote brand operations, ensuring consistent messaging and engagement across digital channels.

Co-founded and conceptualized the J&B Hive, establishing its strategic direction and operational framework for creative funds and space programming.

Led the project as a primary mentor and coach for incubated businesses, including Bathu, Tshepo The Jeanmaker, and Walkfresh.

Strategized and implemented programming that fostered entrepreneurial growth and innovation within the creative sector.

Managed placemaking and content projects, including street art commissions and city-based project consulting, to elevate Cape Town as a creative hub.

Contributed to strategic initiatives that positioned Cape Town as a premier business and creative destination.

Oversaw app design and creative talks, integrating technology and community engagement into urban development.

Researched and implemented e-business technologies, enhancing online tourism services and visitor engagement for Cape Town Tourism.

Gathered and analyzed data trends to provide actionable insights, optimizing digital strategies and marketing efforts.

Coordinated with various stakeholders to integrate technological solutions that improved the overall tourism experience.