Today we’d like to introduce you to Hector Avila Jamesson.
Hector, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My writing career started over ten years ago; I’d just turned 18, and after a laborious two-year process, I got hired as a movie critic at Grupo Reforma, one of Mexico’s most respected newspapers, becoming the youngest columnist in its history.
That was the first time I got paid to write, and looking back on it, I think it’s what motivated me to make the tough decision to leave behind my country and my family to go to college in the US. I began as a freshman in Austin and finished my degree in LA with a double major in Film and Advertising and in the ensuing years, I’ve had the pleasure of working in both industries, collaborating with renowned producers and directors like Adolfo Franco (El Juego Perfecto), Vidal Cantú (Cantinflas) and Oscar-winning director Alejandro G. Iñárritu (The Revenant).
On the advertising side of things, I’ve been lucky to write for brands like Spotify, Disney, YouTube, Netflix, among others.
2019 was a turning point in my career. I was named the top creative (under 30) in Mexico and I got the chance to represent my country in the Cannes International Festival of Creativity.
For the last two years, I’ve been writing for Bud Light, Michelob Ultra and Estrella Jalisco at creative agency draftLine in Los Angeles while simultaneously working on getting my screenwriter career off the ground.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While I’ve been very lucky to work with very kind and talented people, my road so far has definitely had some hardships. I think the main one –and I think anyone who’s left their country of origin will agree — was leaving behind my loved ones, starting anew in a foreign country and learning to navigate a new culture.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a writer who’s mainly worked in advertising for the past seven years. Within that career, I’ve written everything from TV spots to brochures while also having fun conceptualizing stunts and brand activations.
Beyond my strong conceptual skills, I think what sets me apart from others is my cultural background; being well-versed in the nuances of both Mexican and American culture has been extremely helpful, especially when working in LA.
I’m most proud of having represented my country in Cannes as Mexico’s top creative under 30 in 2019.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My one advice would be to always reach out — send that email, ask for that quick cup of coffee. More often than not, people are happy to meet with you, answer your questions and help you out.
Contact Info:
- Website: hajamesson.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hectorjamesson/
- Other: https://letterboxd.com/hajamesson/
