Nzinga Stewart
New York
Summary
I love crafting experiences that make people feel-from scent-driven pop-ups and cozy customization parties to thoughtful brand activations with Sephora, MONAD, AirBnB, and AMREF. I've supported independent makers and large retailers alike, always grounding my work in intention, community, and vibe. Most recently, I completed the D&AD Shift program, where I helped shape Gen Z-focused campaigns for Airbnb, Diageo, and Kraft through storytelling, strategy, and design. I'm always learning, always listening-and always looking to create work that connects through the senses.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Administration & Operations Assistant
Creative Financial Staffing
New York, New York
03.2024 - Current
- Handles front desk duties, office coordination, and daily admin tasks to support business operations in a high-paced finance environment.
- Tracks and manages data related to meal distributions and financial transactions, maintaining accurate records under time-sensitive conditions.
- Provides logistical and client support via phone, email, and in-person communication, maintaining professionalism and attentiveness at all times.
Art Direction & Production Fellow
D&AD Shift
New York, New York
01.2025 - 05.2025
- Collaborated on integrated campaigns for Airbnb, Diageo, and Kraft Heinz, combining design, storytelling, and strategy
- Acted as both producer and art director on team projects-guiding visual identity, crafting copy, and executing brand storytelling
- Helped develop campaign narratives that emphasized emotional resonance, cultural insight, and Gen Z appeal
- Supported production logistics, from deck design to organizing creative assets and mockups for pitches
Interior Design Assistant
Sheba & Solomon | Luxury Interiors
New York City
01.2024 - 02.2025
- Assisted in staging, photography, and meticulous detail styling for celebrity clients with multimillion-dollar homes
- Managed order tracking, maintained supplier spreadsheets, and supported design execution from concept to install
- Contributed to the design and execution of two high-end rooms valued at $2M+ and $3M+, ensuring every detail reflected client taste and brand tone
- Supported content creation and maintenance of the firm's website and visual portfolio
Art Director & Production Assistant
Makeda Cafe - Pop-Up Concept Store & Luxury Cafe
New York City
05.2021 - 12.2024
- Curated and co-hosted experiential pop-up events including perfume-making and custom bag design workshops, and monthly Paint and Sips
- Led art direction across events, from scent bar setups to mood-driven visual storytelling that enhanced customer experience
- Sourced and onboarded local artists and vendors, driving foot traffic through community engagement and cultural alignment
- Brainstormed and implemented creative activations to invite passersby inside, including themed product demos and scent discovery stations
Sales Assistant
Michael Kors
01.2019 - 03.2020
- Welcomed and assisted customers with styling and shopping needs, creating tailored, positive experiences.
- Maintained product displays and organized inventory to support seamless customer flow.
- Engaged with clients during and after their visit, contributing to client retention and satisfaction.
Barista
Starbucks Coffee Co.
New York
01.2017 - 03.2020
- Delivered exceptional service in a high-volume environment; mastered multitasking and teamwork.
- Processed customer orders efficiently and addressed special requests with accuracy and care.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the café space while supporting a fast-moving team
Education
Fashion Business Management -
Fashion Institute of Technology
01.2024 - 03.2026
Skills
- Creative Concept Development
- Merchandising and Interior Staging
- Campaign Art Direction
- Production Planning & Coordination
- Graphic Design
- Perfumer
- Visual Storytelling
- Brand Identity & Styling
- Pop-Up & Event Production
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Trend Forecasting (Gen Z & Cultural Insight)
- Attention to Detail
- Creative Problem-Solving Under Pressure
- Creative collaboration
- Student mentoring
Timeline
Art Direction & Production Fellow
D&AD Shift
01.2025 - 05.2025
Administration & Operations Assistant
Creative Financial Staffing
03.2024 - Current
Interior Design Assistant
Sheba & Solomon | Luxury Interiors
01.2024 - 02.2025
Fashion Business Management -
Fashion Institute of Technology
01.2024 - 03.2026
Art Director & Production Assistant
Makeda Cafe - Pop-Up Concept Store & Luxury Cafe
05.2021 - 12.2024
Sales Assistant
Michael Kors
01.2019 - 03.2020
Barista
Starbucks Coffee Co.
01.2017 - 03.2020