We are two talented event marketing professionals who are also passionate artists. We believe that experiences should inspire, transform, and enrich our culture. Throughout our careers, we have been fortunate to produce some of the world’s most iconic and culturally relevant experiences through engaging activations, exhibitions, meaningful conversations, and impactful social programs.

Now, we are building something special for ourselves, grounded in integrity and creativity.

Hakeem Holmes is a deeply dedicated and inspiring leader in the events and media industries. As the former Vice President of ESSENCE Festival of Culture™, one of the most beloved festivals by attendance, he played a vital role in its ongoing growth and success. Over a decade of experience planning and executing large-scale events, marketing campaigns, and building meaningful partnerships, Hakeem has collaborated with respected brands such as Vanity Fair, Bumble, W Magazine, ARRAY, and ESSENCE.

As a proud son of New Orleans, Hakeem’s love for culture and community runs through everything he does. He is known for his thoughtful strategic planning and innovative ideas, which now guide his position as Co Founder of a new collective, Obsidian Theory.

A graduate of New York University’s esteemed Tisch School of the Arts, Hakeem is a consummate professional who always strives to refine his craft through collaboration. He is also a gifted actor, producer, and self-proclaimed culture curator.

Hakeem is a force to be reckoned with, respected, and admired for his profound influence and unwavering commitment to excellence. His superpower is his ability to bring people together through the power of culture.

Currently residing between New Orleans and London.

Co-Founder, Managing Partner

Hakeem Holmes

Danaeya is a collaborative leader and architect of immersive brand and event experiences, proudly hailing from Detroit, MI and shaped by the creative roots of her city. A classically trained harpist and graduate of the University of Michigan, Danaeya’s work is a unique blend of artistry, cultural stewardship, and strategic vision that has brought her to the forefront of global events, sports, entertainment, and community initiatives.
 
With over two decades of experience, Danaeya brings expertise that spans global event operations, integrated marketing, and grassroots activation, amplifying stories that reflect the multifaceted identity of diverse communities.

Celebrated for uniting powerhouse teams and top-tier partners, she has orchestrated some of the world’s most iconic events, from Super Bowl 50 and Major League Soccer’s All-Star Week to Essence Festival of Culture and SailGP’s international sailing league. Her strategic vision consistently centers on audience engagement, cultural authenticity, and revenue growth, earning trust from major brands and empowering communities at every turn.​
 
Danaeya has crafted 360-degree campaigns and produced signature programs that weave together art, music, literature, and sport, while driving connection to culture and purpose-driven missions. She has seamlessly led digital and live platform experiences, including multi-million dollar projects for brands like Coca-Cola, AT&T, Nike, and BET Networks. Her hallmark is delivering experiences that entertain and transform—creating measurable social impact and lasting legacy through every project.​
 
At the heart of Danaeya’s approach is a commitment to culturally accountable initiatives—grounded in deep listening, mutual respect, and real giveback. She has designed community engagement and social impact activations such as the Hope for the Holidays program, which directly served thousands of families, and has brokered strategic partnerships centered on integrity and measurable reinvestment into under-resourced communities. Her leadership style fuels creative expression, fosters agency among collaborators, and sets a benchmark for empowerment in every project.​
 
As a founder and experiential marketing strategist for Iconic Citizen, and now as a force behind a new collective, Obsidian Theory, Danaeya unites a network of trailblazing producers, visionaries, and community builders.

Co-Founder, Managing Partner

Danaeya Johnson

our leadership