Thandeka Gilbert is a multidisciplinary creative force who leads with purpose and passion, championing the representation of women of colour within the advertising industry. With a dynamic career spanning across leading local and multinational agencies, she has shaped award-winning work for local, pan-African, and global brands.

Fluent in both art direction and copywriting, Thandeka’s versatility has propelled her career forward and earned her recognition on some of the industry’s most respected stages — including the New York Festival Midas Awards, Pendoring Awards, Creative Circle, Loeries, and Cannes Lions. Her journey is rooted in an enduring love for creativity and an unwavering commitment to growth.

Throughout her career — the highs and lows and everything in between — she’s learned one guiding principle: extend the same kindness to yourself that the world asks you to give to others.

Thandeka is driven to amplify the presence of Black female Creative Directors, to deepen client-agency partnerships, and to elevate McCann’s creative legacy.

Having been mentored by some of the industry’s most impactful leaders, Thandeka now looks forward to honouring the path that brought her here — celebrating every milestone, making her parent’s proud, and continuing to build a career defined by meaningful, enduring creative work and accolades.