ABOUT US

WHO ARE WE?

The Zoo XYZ is a purpose-driven global event agency that takes our client’s audience on an unforgettable journey.

We collaborate with our clients and help them make an authentic mark on the entertainment industry. We work with a network of global brands, creatives and more to deliver bespoke events that tell a compelling story and engage audiences.

Social sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We connect you with local communities, and a diversified team to build a seamless production while providing our global network with in-house training that empowers and equips them to execute with purpose and precision.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to create a lasting change in the event industry by breaking down barriers and providing opportunities.

Through the artistry of event production, we will continue to empower and authentically showcase Black culture, Black professionals, Black talent and Black creatives.

MEET THE TEAM

Nadu Placca Rodriguez

Founder & Global Experience Architect

Nadu is a self-proclaimed event architect, with a reputation and the track record to prove it. Her 16-year career across three continents with over 20 brands is a testament to her ability to navigate different audiences, bring complex ideas to life and deliver unforgettable events with purpose and precision.

Nadu is committed to making an everlasting impact on the event industry where diversity and representation are key. She achieves this by providing opportunities, training and empowering individuals to explore the event industry. Nadu is always sure to bring a team of talented industry experts along the journey. 

When Nadu is not leading the pack, she is on holiday hoping to top up her tan!

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CHANTEL LYNCH

Head of Events

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KIANA PLACCA RODRIGUEZ

Director of Festivals

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ONGELIQUE SHERMAN

Executive Assistant

& Event Project Manager

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ANN-MARIE WILLIAMS

Head of Education

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LASIAN STEPHENSON

HR Manager

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MAHALIA JOHNSON

Head of Communications

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Myriam Crenner

Communications Manager

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MPEO NKUNA

Legal Counsel

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JANET LYNCH

Finance Manager

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CHANTEL LYNCH

Chantel is an accomplished and knowledgeable events expert with over 12 years of experience delivering unforgettable events. She is known for her attention to detail and is the go-to person for getting things done. She is driven by her passion for transforming clients’ visions into reality while managing a global team to deliver successful experiences.

The Zoo XYZ’s values of authenticity and community resonate with Chantel and are a reflection of her personal and professional outlook.

Chantel enjoys travelling, sweating it out at the gym or savouring a delicious cocktail, she epitomises the spirit of self-love and adventure.  

KIANA PLACCA-RODRIGUEZ

Kiana is an innovative and seasoned festival director with over 15 years of extensive experience in the event industry. Her diverse background, which includes roles in security, restaurant ownership and global event production, has equipped her with a unique skill set and a comprehensive understanding of event management. Currently living between South Africa and New York, Kiana brings a global perspective and a dynamic approach to every festival she directs.

Kiana has produced and managed events for some of the prestigious and well-known brands, festivals and record labels in the entertainment industry,  including HBO, RCA, UMG, Live Nation, Spotify, Dreamville, Afro nation, Gov Ball, Afropunk, Rolling Loud, and Broccoli City Festival. Her portfolio is rich with global festivals, album release events, artist dinners, brand activations, and intimate concerts. Kiana’s ability to seamlessly integrate creative vision with meticulous planning has made her a sought-after producer in the industry.

Kiana has a calm demeanor, which she gets from working festivals with her father from a young age. You can find her rocking an outspoken t-shirt with a black and women empowering messaging and the best sneaker game on the team.

ONGELIQUE SHERMAN

With 8 years of consulting experience and 7 years in events, Ongelique brings a standard of excellence to The Zoo XYZ contributing to the business’ success thus far. Driven by her passion for events and a keen eye for detail, Ongelique coordinates internal and external events for The Zoo XYZ. Her proficiency in project management and creativity in event production serve as a strong foundation and a linchpin as the company expands.

Additionally, Ongelique is Nadu’s PA, serving as an advisor and her right-hand person to ensure her vision is executed. Her efforts contribute towards strategic planning, streamlining communication across departments, optimising business operations, and more. She continues to catapult The Zoo XYZ into new territories as she champions the business across the world.

In Ongelique’s downtime, you can find her in the gym, learning how to bake, taking a stroll through the London streets, or on a plane back home to Atlanta, GA.

ANN-MARIE WILLIAMS

Ann-Marie is a driven leader with extensive experience in developing impactful events and training programmes across multiple industries. She heads up The Zoo XYZ Education and Training programmes which provide inclusive learning experiences.  She works cross-functionally leading and supporting various stakeholders across complex workflows and projects. 

She flourishes in a fast environment and adds value to The Zoo XYZ’s team by developing initiatives, and implementing efficient systems and processes that amplify organisational success. She is an innovative thinker who thrives on the challenge of finding solutions to complex problems.

As a passionate people manager, Ann-Marie enjoys coaching and nurturing new talent so they can achieve their very best.  Ann-Marie is a resilient team player who strives for excellence and is highly committed.

In Ann-Marie’s downtime, you can find her listening to her favourite playlist and soaking up some tropical sun! 

LASIAN STEPHENSON

Lasian Newell-Stephenson is the Head of Human Resources at the Zoo XYZ. She is a Level 7 CIPD-qualified HR professional with over a decade of experience in culture and people management. Lasian has worked across Tech, Finance and Consulting industries and has garnered a plethora of skills that shape her positive approach to people support in the workplace. 

Lasian is a strategic thinker who cares about strengthening team dynamics, consistent learning and development, and growth opportunities for all members of The Zoo XYZ team. She specialises in Leadership development, mediation and team building facilitation.

When Lasian is not working on cool people projects at The Zoo XYZ, she can be found travelling, attending concerts and museums and practicing her mixology skills.

MAHALIA JOHNSON

Mahalia is a commercially minded, senior strategic communications and brand specialist who is passionate about effective communication and storytelling. 

With a proven track record, Mahalia advocates that comms and branding are intrinsic to any organisation’s growth and success. Her expertise lies in working with organisations to establish clear and effective communication strategies in addition to creating the communications operational framework needed to execute with precision.

Mahalia uses her passion and communication skills to tell The Zoo XYZ’s colourful and empowering story. Her work with The Zoo XYZ is fulfilling as it’s a community that reflects who she is and actively gives back

In her downtime, Mahalia enjoys reading, hiking and spiced rum, but not all at the same time.

Myriam Crenner

Myriam is a passionate Communications professional dedicated to crafting engaging content strategies and nurturing online communities. Over the years, she has developed her skills within both B2B and B2C companies, including tech consulting, startups, and communications agencies in Paris, working in international teams and environments. With a deep understanding of diverse audience needs and preferences, Myriam excels in developing campaigns and communication strategies that authentically resonate with people.

At The Zoo XYZ, Myriam thrives in the welcoming and collaborative atmosphere, where every team member’s unique skills contribute to collective success. She values being part of a team that prioritises authenticity, creativity, and community.

In her personal time, Myriam loves creating sewing projects, reading, exploring the world of wine, and playing tennis. 

MPEO NKUNA

Mpeo is a dynamic and skilled corporate lawyer whose professional experience includes top-tier international law firms in South Africa and in-house corporate legal and governance. She has acquired a wealth of knowledge in various fields including governance, corporate legal and entertainment. 

She is passionate about sustainable women empowerment and equitable representation which drew her to The Zoo XYZ. Being part of The Zoo XYZ enables her to contribute to making a meaningful difference in the socioeconomic challenges faced by many organisations.

Mpeo loves to read, socialise and enjoy a good movie in her spare time. Her favourite hobbies are breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

JANET LYNCH

With over 35 years of experience as a management accountant at Canary Wharf Ltd, Janet brings a wealth of expertise to The Zoo XYZ.  Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to financial integrity have made her a great asset for The Zoo XYZ.  Her journey with Canary Wharf Ltd has equipped her with skills to navigate complex challenges, ensuring The Zoo XYZ’s financial health and sustainability.

Janet chose The Zoo XYZ because of its vibrant and inclusive culture, aligning perfectly with her values of teamwork, customer service and innovation.  She thrives in an environment where collaboration and creativity come together to make a meaningful impact.

Beyond her professional life, Janet is an avid gym-goer, enjoys walking and loves experimenting in the kitchen. Janet’s unique blend of professionalism and personal passion truly makes a difference.

The Zoo XYZ Festival Services Deck

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The Zoo XYZ Event Services Deck

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10 Steps To A Successful Event

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BLACK IN THE BOARDROOM

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