Meet David Meneses | Senior Creative

We had the good fortune of connecting with David Meneses and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, why did you pursue a creative career?
To be honest, it never really felt like a decision. It was just who I was. Since I was a kid, I’ve been drawn to stories that sparked the imagination. I grew up watching anime like Cowboy Bebop and Saint Seiya, reading fiction like Harry Potter, and getting lost in graphic novels like Watchmen. Those worlds felt limitless. They taught me that creativity isn’t just about escaping reality—it’s about reshaping it.

That mindset stuck with me. I could never picture myself in a job that felt repetitive or boxed in. I wanted something dynamic—where ideas mattered, and every day brought something new. My family always encouraged me to choose a career I genuinely loved—after all, it’s something you spend most of your life doing. They reminded me that the more I enjoyed it, the less it would feel like work.

With their support—and with a few family members already working in creative fields—I found my path in advertising during college. And honestly, it just clicked. I guess that’s the core of it all: this career lets me express who I am, have fun in the process, and grow through creativity. It doesn’t just feel like a job—it feels like where I’m meant to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a creative copywriter, which means I get to use words and ideas to tell stories that grab people’s attention and make them feel something. It’s not just about writing ads—it’s about creating messages that connect with people in a way that feels real and meaningful. What really sets me apart is where I come from and the experiences I’ve had. Growing up in Colombia, surrounded by many cultures, and then working across Latin America and now the U.S., has shaped how I see the world. No two people think the same way, so I approach my work from my own unique perspective. That’s how I come up with ideas that feel fresh, authentic, and relatable.

I’m most proud of the work that matters and influences people positively—not just social campaigns but through entertainment as well. For example, the ‘#WomenRewriteWomen’ initiative challenged sexist headlines in Colombia’s largest newspaper, sparking a meaningful cultural conversation and generating over 200 million impressions. ‘The Beer Cap Project’ campaign took a fresh approach to responsible drinking, winning a Cannes Lion by partnering with six global beer brands to encourage safer choices in a way people actually embraced. More recently, my work with the California Lottery connected with broad audiences and aired during the California local Super Bowl broadcast, blending fun and community connection. These projects aren’t just awards or campaigns to me—they represent the real impact and change I aim to create through storytelling.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey marked by resilience, continual learning, and dedication to my craft. After earning my degree in advertising, I began as a junior writer at Young & Rubicam in Bogotá, facing the challenges of adapting and growing in a demanding industry. Thanks to mentors who believed in me and my persistence, I advanced to MullenLowe SSP3, collaborating with top creatives on campaigns recognized internationally. As Creative Director at MediaMonks Mexico, I led projects for major global brands, sharpening my leadership and strategic skills. In 2022, I transitioned to the U.S. market, joining Hill Holliday in Boston and now contributing as a senior copywriter at MediaMonks LA. Each phase required proving myself anew, embracing setbacks as opportunities to improve, and consistently pushing creative boundaries. This progression reflects not only my talent but my ability to adapt and thrive in diverse and competitive environments.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that creativity flourishes in inclusive, supportive spaces where diverse voices are valued and risk-taking is encouraged. I strive to foster that kind of environment in every team I join—because that’s where truly meaningful and innovative work happens.

Ultimately, I want people to know my work is driven by a genuine passion to tell stories that matter. I create ideas that break through the noise, connect with diverse audiences, and inspire real joy and positive change. That’s the essence of my brand and why I do what I do.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to show them a blend of everything I love—great food, nature, skateboarding, and the city’s unique vibe. We’d start with a trip to Yosemite, one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Back in LA, I’d take them to Noshi Sushi for some amazing sushi, followed by some time at Stoner Skate Plaza, my favorite skate spot to hang out and catch the local energy. For BBQ, Bludso’s ribs are a must-try.

We’d also hit up Covina and La Puente skateparks for a more laid-back, local skating experience. No visit would be complete without grabbing tres leches cake at Porto’s Bakery—it’s legendary. If they’re up for it, a day snowboarding at Mountain High would be a perfect change of pace.

To experience the city side, we’d explore the Arts District downtown—checking out street food and maybe catching a sunset from a rooftop bar. A day at Venice or Santa Monica Beach, skating the boardwalk and enjoying fresh seafood, would round things out.

Finally, I’d want to take them to some cozy coffee shops and chill bars with live music—those hidden gems that really capture the heart of LA. For me, that mix of nature, food, skating, and local culture is the best way to experience the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely. I really owe so much of my journey to the people who believed in me from the very beginning. First and foremost, I have to shout out my parents and my sister. Their patience, unconditional support, and encouragement have been the foundation of everything I’ve accomplished. They’ve been there through the highs and lows, and honestly, none of this would be possible without them.

I’m also incredibly grateful to the mentors who helped shape me along the way. I was lucky enough to work with some amazing leaders in the industry. One of the most important was Carlos Andrés Rodríguez, the CCO at MullenLowe SSP3 Colombia when I was starting out. Thanks to his guidance, I was able to really focus my skills, sharpen my craft, and understand the heart of this business. He taught me not only how to deliver high-quality, well-crafted ideas but also the importance of empathy and creating a work environment where everyone feels comfortable and can thrive. With his leadership, our team won over 80 awards at major festivals like Cannes Lions, D&AD, One Show, and the Clios.

I also want to give a big thanks to Ícaro Doria and the team at Hill Holliday in Boston. Ícaro gave me the chance to work directly with the U.S. market, which was a huge step for me as a Colombian creative. Working with him expanded my perspective and pushed my craft even further. I really admire how he built multicultural teams, bringing together people from Canada, Brazil, South Africa, and beyond. It was a great reminder that the best work happens when different voices and backgrounds come together.

Beyond the people I’ve worked with, I’ve been inspired by legendary creatives like David Ogilvy, who famously said, “If each of us hires people who are smaller than we are, we shall become a company of dwarfs. But if each of us hires people who are bigger than we are, we shall become a company of giants.” That idea has always motivated me to surround myself with talented people and never stop learning.

And of course, Dan Wieden’s “Fail harder” mantra has been my personal north star. Creativity means taking risks, pushing boundaries, and knowing that sometimes you won’t get it right—but that’s where growth and breakthrough ideas come from.

Finally, I want to recognize every creative partner, strategist, producer, and intern I’ve worked with over the years. I’ve learned something from each of them. For me, success isn’t just about talent—it’s about the habits you build, the wisdom you borrow, and the shared passion you bring to every project. I’m truly grateful to all those who’ve helped shape how I think, lead, and create.

Website: https://www.davidmeneses.net/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-meneses-11a52191/