D&AD Expands Global Presence with 26 Ambassador Appointments Across 10 Countries

Apr. 17, 2026

D&AD, the global non-profit championing excellence in design and commercial creativity, has appointed 26 leading creatives across 10 countries as part of a new global Ambassador Programme.

Spanning creative hubs across Europe, Asia Pacific, North and South America, the Ambassador network includes representatives from cities such as Auckland, Berlin, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Madrid, New York, Paris, São Paulo, Sydney and Tokyo.

Among those appointed are Döerte Spengler-Ahrens (Jung von Matt, Hamburg), Ricardo Wolff (INNOCEAN, Berlin), Yasuharu Sasaki (Dentsu, Tokyo), Pancho Casses (David, Madrid), and Shakira Polite, Entrepreneur in Residence at the Frank G. Zarb School of Business in New York and a former D&AD Shift participant. This is an initial group, with further appointments to be announced over time.

The programme is designed to embed D&AD more deeply within local creative industries, connecting talent with its global network, programmes and standards.

David Patton, CEO at D&AD, said:

“This is an important moment for D&AD. We’ve always believed creativity doesn’t belong to one place, it’s shaped by communities all over the world. This programme allows us to be closer to those communities, supporting talent at every level, raising standards and strengthening the connection between local industries and the global creative network. Each Ambassador will champion creative excellence and representation within their region, acting as an advocate for D&AD, connecting local communities to its global programmes, and providing insight to help shape the organisation’s future direction.”

 

Cat How, D&AD Ambassador and Founder, How&How, said:

"What I've always admired about D&AD is that it champions creativity at every level, from the very best work in the world to the next generation finding their way in the industry. Having mentored with D&AD Shift, I've seen that commitment in action. I’m honoured to be part of the Ambassador Programme and looking forward to collaborating, sharing ideas and hopefully inspiring a few along the way."

 

The Ambassador Programme builds on D&AD’s long-standing commitment to creative education and access, including initiatives such as Shift, its free night school for creatives from non-traditional backgrounds, and the New Blood Awards.