CANNES, FRANCE — McDonald’s Philippines’ Marketing Director Ashley Santillan has been selected as one of the ten recipients of the inaugural Jodi Harris Scholarship. In partnership with international brewing company AB InBev, this scholarship aims to honor the late AB InBev leader Jodi Harris by recognizing and supporting young marketing leaders who demonstrate a commitment to creativity in the industry. With over 50 applicants, Ashley stood out among her peers to secure a spot in this prestigious program.
Ashley, along with the nine other recipients of the scholarship, has the privilege of participating in the renowned Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, happening from June 19 to 23.
The Jodi Harris Scholarship is an exciting avenue for young professionals to expand their horizons, network with industry experts, and gain valuable insights into the world of creative marketing. Ashley’s selection as one of the recipients highlights her exceptional skills and potential as a future leader in the field.
Her journey in the world of marketing has been marked by noteworthy accomplishments. In 2015, she formed a winning duo with Ada Almendras in the “Inquirer: Road to Cannes” competition. Their winning concept, “I am Inquirer,” focused on future-proofing the Inquirer brand by highlighting the enduring significance of paper in the digital age. As the representatives of the Philippines, Ashley and Ada competed against other talented marketers from around the world in the Young Lions Competition held in Cannes.
Ashley’s dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed within the industry. She was recognized as a young marketing leader by Mansmith in 2019 and Tambuli in 2021, further solidifying her reputation as an emerging force in the marketing field.
As Ashley embarks on this remarkable opportunity at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, the industry eagerly anticipates the valuable contributions she will make and the knowledge she will gain.
She shared, “I am grateful for the chance to attend the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity through the Jodi Harris scholarship program, as it allows me the opportunity to learn from industry luminaries. The Festival’s emphasis on fostering great storytelling resonates with me as a marketer, and I am eagerly anticipating the prospect of returning with newfound insights to share.”
