We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Daniel Vettorazi a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Daniel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I learned to do what I do through a combination of curiosity, hands-on experimentation, and a relentless drive to stay ahead of emerging technologies. Early in my career, I immersed myself in the intersection of design and technology, constantly exploring new tools and techniques even when they were still in their infancy. Founding one of Brazil’s first adlabs was a turning point that forced me to learn by doing—experimenting with emerging technologies like AR and AI long before they became mainstream, which positioned me as a leader in the field.

Looking back, I realize that having more structured mentorship and access to global networks earlier could have accelerated my learning process. Much of what I learned came through trial and error, which, while valuable, required resilience and persistence to navigate challenges without a clear roadmap. Today, I emphasize the importance of seeking out mentors, collaborating with experts across disciplines, and leveraging online resources to stay ahead of industry shifts.

The most essential skills in my journey have been adaptability, problem-solving, and the ability to bridge creativity with technical execution. These skills have enabled me to navigate complex projects and introduce innovative solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible. However, obstacles such as limited access to cutting-edge technology in the early stages of my career and the need to constantly prove the value of emerging tech in a skeptical market were challenges I had to overcome with persistence and strategic thinking.

Ultimately, my journey has taught me that staying curious, being proactive in learning, and embracing new challenges are key to long-term success in the fast-evolving creative technology space.

Daniel, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a Creative Technologist with nearly two decades of experience blending technology and storytelling to create cutting-edge digital experiences. My journey began in Brazil, where I founded one of the country’s first adlabs, pioneering the use of emerging technologies in advertising at a time when creative technology was still in its infancy. This early work led to award-winning projects like the Restart Project, which won a Webby Award, and Blind Book, a campaign that promoted accessibility in publishing through innovative digital experiences.

After establishing myself in Brazil, I moved to Los Angeles to expand my impact on a global scale. I’ve had the privilege of working at leading companies like Buck Design, Buoy Studio and Meta, where I contributed to groundbreaking projects, including the development of AI-driven creative solutions and immersive experiences. One of my proudest achievements was leading prototypes at Meta that won three global hackathons, with one idea becoming a core feature in WhatsApp, now used by millions worldwide.

Currently, I serve as the Senior Vice President of Creative Technology at Dentsu Americas, where I lead teams in developing innovative digital solutions that bridge creativity with emerging technologies like AI, AR, and XR. I specialize in crafting prototypes and experiences that help brands connect with their audiences in unique and engaging ways. From AI-powered storytelling tools to immersive brand experiences, my work focuses on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the digital landscape.

What sets me apart is my ability to stay ahead of industry trends, identifying and mastering emerging technologies before they become mainstream. I started working with AI almost a decade ago, positioning myself as a trusted expert and thought leader, helping companies and creative teams integrate these technologies effectively. My work isn’t just about technology; it’s about using these tools to tell powerful stories, create emotional connections, and solve real-world problems for clients.

I’m most proud of my ability to inspire and mentor others in the field, sharing my knowledge and helping the next generation of creatives navigate the rapidly evolving world of technology. Whether it’s through consulting, prototyping, or public speaking, my goal is to continue driving innovation and helping brands create experiences that resonate and inspire.

For potential clients and collaborators, I want them to know that I’m not just focused on delivering solutions—I’m committed to exploring what’s next, taking creative risks, and pushing the limits of technology to create meaningful impact.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One story that illustrates my resilience is when I was tasked with leading the development of the HBO trailer for ‘Between the World and Me,’ a project that required pushing the boundaries of AI-driven animation under tight deadlines. The challenge was immense—we needed to transform hundreds of still images into fluid, emotive animations that conveyed the powerful themes of the show. At the time, AI tools capable of achieving this level of quality were still in their early stages, and traditional methods wouldn’t meet the project timeline.

Rather than relying on existing solutions, I took an experimental approach, integrating machine learning models in ways they hadn’t been used before to accelerate the production process without compromising quality. Through persistence, iteration, and a deep understanding of both the creative and technical aspects, we successfully delivered a visually stunning trailer that won a Webby Award and an ADC Award for Typography.

This experience reinforced my belief that resilience isn’t just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about embracing uncertainty, staying adaptable, and leveraging innovation to solve complex problems. It’s a mindset I carry into every project, allowing me to stay ahead of industry trends and continuously push the limits of what’s possible.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing that non-creatives might struggle to understand about my journey is the constant need to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. In the creative technology field, it’s not enough to simply follow trends; you have to anticipate them, master emerging tools before they become mainstream, and be prepared to innovate in ways that haven’t been done before.

For example, I started working with AI nearly a decade ago, at a time when it was still an obscure technology in the creative industry. While many were skeptical about its potential, I took the initiative to experiment, prototype, and develop solutions, positioning myself as a trusted expert when the AI boom eventually happened. This proactive approach allowed me to lead groundbreaking projects, such as an AI-powered campaign for Reloshare’s SafeStays, which used deepfake technology to create personalized, impactful messages that resonated with audiences and earned recognition at Cannes Lions.

Another challenge non-creatives might not realize is the balance between technical complexity and emotional storytelling. It’s not just about understanding technology; it’s about knowing how to translate it into meaningful human experiences. Whether it’s designing immersive AR experiences or using AI to enhance storytelling, the challenge is always about making technology invisible and the experience memorable.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vettorazi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielvettorazi
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vettorazi