João (27) has a degree in Social Communications from PUCRS an is cofounder and VP of BOX 1824 (www.box1824.com), the renowned Brazilian consumption and behavior trends research company. BOX is active in emerging markets, such as BRIC and Latin America. João is also partner and cofounder of Brazilian creative hotshop LiveAD (www.livead.com.br). João also invests in web and technology companies, working on startup projects such as the news search engine www.Busk.com and the casual games studio aQuiris (www.aquiris.com.br).
Sao Paulo, Brasil
Ukrainian-born researcher with academic interests in semiotics, history and culture studies. BA & MA in History, MA in Semiotics. Has worked in Ukraine, US, UK, Hungary and Estonia. Enjoys travel and exploring new places which led to creating travel information website – now 5 years of helpingonline fellow travelers in find optimal travel solutions (timetables, best fares, sightseeing suggestions).
Tartu, Estonia
A freelance semiotician and cultural insights expert in San Francisco, Ramona has pinpointed key language and imagery, crafted brand strategy and inspired innovation for established brands in the consumer packaged goods, apparel, technology, spirits and beverages, beauty, healthcare and food categories. Ramona has a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania, with a focus on cultural studies and visual communication. Earlier in her career, she worked as a producer for television, and spent almost ten years as researcher, advertising and brand strategist for a global corporation.
San Francisco, US