Next Creative Leaders
Next Creative Leaders is a portfolio competition that identifies, celebrates, and gives a global platform to talented, gender expansive creatives who are making their mark on the world with both their work and a unique point of view on creative leadership.
2025 Next Creative Leaders - NCL Profile
Divya Buddhdev
Agency Divya Buddhdev
Client NCL 2025
Category
Middle East and Africa
Annual ID
NCL25_Buddhdev
Divya Buddhdev
Associate Creative Director
Ogilvy Africa
she/her
Nairobi, Kenya
Region: Africa
Read InterviewFifteen years ago, I entered the advertising industry like a blank page—knowing nothing about the field. As the only woman in the art department, carving out my space was challenging. With no role model, I often felt out of place. However, resilience drove me forward. Today, I’m one of the few female ACDs in my country, inspiring my team with determination.
Over time, I discovered my passion for humanitarian and environmental projects, aligning with my detailed "Virgo" nature. My commitment to excellence has earned accolades such as APA Young Creative, Loeries, Cannes shortlists, Drum Awards, LIA, and D&AD. Being selected for Ogilvy’s prestigious 30for30 Leadership Program was a career highlight, helping me find my leadership style. Now, as a cohort, I propose ideas and join open talks that drive change. Last year, I served as a judge for the DMA Awards, further solidifying my dedication to creative excellence.
I’ve participated in initiatives like The Buddy Program and Cultural Shapers, fostering collaboration and improving workplace culture. Over two years as an ACD, I’ve built a united team while mentoring them through challenges. I remain committed to advancing women in creative roles and supporting causes that benefit people and the planet.
Over time, I discovered my passion for humanitarian and environmental projects, aligning with my detailed "Virgo" nature. My commitment to excellence has earned accolades such as APA Young Creative, Loeries, Cannes shortlists, Drum Awards, LIA, and D&AD. Being selected for Ogilvy’s prestigious 30for30 Leadership Program was a career highlight, helping me find my leadership style. Now, as a cohort, I propose ideas and join open talks that drive change. Last year, I served as a judge for the DMA Awards, further solidifying my dedication to creative excellence.
I’ve participated in initiatives like The Buddy Program and Cultural Shapers, fostering collaboration and improving workplace culture. Over two years as an ACD, I’ve built a united team while mentoring them through challenges. I remain committed to advancing women in creative roles and supporting causes that benefit people and the planet.
View Work
THE HARMACY
Title
THE HARMACY
Agency
Divya Buddhdev
Client
NCL 2025 | Divya Buddhdev
Annual ID
NCL25_Buddhdev_10
Category
2025 NCL Work: NCL 2025
AGENCY
WPP Ogilvy Africa, Kenya
CLIENT
Gertrude's Children's Hospital
HERFOLIO
Title
HERFOLIO
Agency
Divya Buddhdev
Client
NCL 2025 | Divya Buddhdev
Annual ID
NCL25_Buddhdev_20
Category
2025 NCL Work: NCL 2025
AGENCY
WPP Ogilvy Africa, Kenya
CLIENT
WPP OGILVY
FIRST BODA
Title
FIRST BODA
Agency
Divya Buddhdev
Client
NCL 2025 | Divya Buddhdev
Annual ID
NCL25_Buddhdev_30
Category
2025 NCL Work: NCL 2025
AGENCY
WPP Ogilvy Africa, Kenya
CLIENT
MY DAWA AND KENYA RED CROSS
PROJECT RED LIPSTICK
Title
PROJECT RED LIPSTICK
Agency
Divya Buddhdev
Client
NCL 2025 | Divya Buddhdev
Annual ID
NCL25_Buddhdev_40
Category
2025 NCL Work: NCL 2025
AGENCY
WPP Ogilvy Africa, Kenya
CLIENT
USIKIMYE AND JOANNA K
Campaign
Project 1
Project 2
Project 3
Project 4
2025 Awards
NCL Winner
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