McCanners of New York: Camilla Ciappina
Welcome to 'McCanners of New York', a series that delves into the lives of the talent behind McCann New York's greatest work. Featuring employees across departments and various roles, this series is an exploration of their personal stories, side-hustles, passions and the projects they cherish.
'McCanners of New York' offers a glimpse into the lives of these talented advertisers, showcasing both their professional and personal journeys.
In this edition, we’re getting to know Camilla Ciappina associate creative director, McCann New York.
Q> Why did you decide to pursue a career in Advertising?
Camilla> Ever since I was a little kid, I've been all about curiosity and creativity. I was never the athletic type, I was the doodling type, dreaming up imaginary worlds and characters. I was a total Disney kid—obsessed with how their stories brought magic to life and got everyone in their feels. It was what sparked my interest in advertising. I mean, if storytelling could make people believe in fairy tales, imagine what it could do in ads! I've always believed in the power of advertising to captivate, inspire, and build connections. We have the capabilities to build something from scratch, to take our vision from paper and make it a reality, and I love that.
Q> Outside of work, do you have any personal interests or hobbies that you're particularly passionate about? Has this hobby/passion influenced your work in advertising at all?
Camilla> You mean besides my puppy Cannoli being my favourite personal interest? Yes, I have a side hustle called, Pimp My Portfolio – created in 2017 to help creatives and strategists to revamp their portfolio presentation so they can land their dream job. Even though I’m a creative, I’m a sucker for recruitment and a professional portfolio stalker. So, I decided to merge those two passions to create a project that helps my fellow colleagues improve their portfolio layout. So far, I have built nearly 1000 portfolios, taught 55+ classes and workshops, and although I’m helping others, they also help me get inspired! There are so many amazing and talented people out there and the beauty of working in the creative space allows you to constantly inspire each other. Pimp My Portfolio is my favourite hobby and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Q> Can you share a project or campaign you've worked on that you're particularly proud of?
Camilla> I am extremely proud of the work me and my partner, Daniel Trimarchi, did for Smirnoff called, “Atomic.” It’s one of those ideas that you think it would be impossible to produce, but Riff Raff Films, The Mill UK, and The Sacred Egg made it all possible. The campaign is all about celebrating the power of the collective and the energy that’s created when different individuals, ingredients, and flavours come together. We created a metaphor out of this energy and transformed people into atoms. Who would have thought that turning people into bubbles would be so magical? We did. I am so grateful to work with such a legendary team at McCann NY and have clients that believe in our ideas.
Q> What advice would you give to someone aspiring to pursue a career in advertising, especially at a large agency like McCann?
Camilla> Don’t be afraid of trying. Be kind to yourself. And please, always update your portfolio! The best opportunities will always come when you least expect it, and you want to be ready. Trust me.
Q> What is your favourite area in NYC and why?
Camilla> People will think I’m weird, but I love Roosevelt Island. I just love riding the tram and seeing the skyline. I lived there during an internship program I did in 2016 and it brings back great memories.
Q> If you could recommend one hidden gem in NYC that not many people know about, what would it be?
Camilla> I don’t think this is a hidden gem anymore, but I don’t see a lot of people there, so I guess it still counts. There’s this trail in Central Park, right after the Bow Bridge that leads to the lake. There are two wooden benches, and THAT is the perfect spot. It’s quiet, you can see the turtles, plus the buildings reflection on the lake are the perfect NYC touch. I just think it’s such a peaceful spot in the midst of the NY chaos.
