Creative Technologist

YVONNE GRZENKOWICZ

CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIST

SKILLS

TECHNICAL: Proficient in AWS, Google Cloud, Blender, NoSQL, JavaScript, Node.js, DynamoDB, React, HTML & CSS, Next.js, Tailwind, A-Frame, Python, Three.js, Unity/C#, Unreal Engine.

CREATIVE: Expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Audition, Autodesk Maya, 3D Studio Max, Toon Boom, Procreate.

SPECIALTIES: Animation, editing, content curation, talent connect, XR production & development, website development, fundraising, events management

Event Strategy and Planning, Vendor Negotiation and Management, Fundraising and Sponsorship Acquisition, Budget Management, Creative Problem Solving, Virtual and In-Person Event Production, Team Leadership and Development

EXPERIENCE

• ORGANIZATION FOUNDER, ANIMATION NIGHTS NEW YORK (ANNY), NEW YORK, NY SEP 2015 - PRESENT

Spearheaded a monthly screening event and annual festival, showcasing the best animated short films and VR experiences from around the globe.

Successfully co-curated content across various mediums including animation, games, AR, MR, and VR, producing over 90 special events and 5 festivals.

Achieved NYC SBS Certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) status.

• PLATFORM DEVELOPER, ANNY EXCHANGE, NEW YORK, NY SEP 2019 - PRESENT

Developed a platform facilitating connections between creators and opportunities, utilizing React, AWS/Amplify/Cognito, and WebXR technologies.

Recognized as an Epic MegaGrant Recipient, NYCEDC Founder Fellowship Recipient, and Techstars Catalyst Program Alumna.

• PLATFORM DEVELOPER, ANNY VIRTUAL EVENTS, NEW YORK, NY MAR 2020 - PRESENT

Engineered a web-based VR platform, hosting over 15 events and an annual festival for 3000+ participants, employing AWS, Mozilla Hubs Cloud, Unity, and Blender.

Collaborated on cross-promotional VR events, enhancing community engagement and experience.

• CO-OWNER, ANIMATION FOR ADULTS, UK/US MAY 2015 - PRESENT

Directed the production of video and audio podcast programming, interviewing key figures in the animation industry and co-hosting episodes.

• ANIMATOR / DIRECTOR, EYESNARE INC, NEW YORK, NY MAR 2011 - PRESENT

Created animation content for web, TV, film, and special projects, utilizing a broad range of software and traditional techniques.

Engaged in full-stack development for interactive content, webXR content, and VR events.

Collaborated with external partners and sponsors to develop strategic partnerships that support and elevate event programming.

Cultivated strong relationships with industry stakeholders, securing support from distributors, tech startups, and nonprofit organizations.

• ENTREPRENEUR IN RESIDENCE PROJECT DIRECTOR, TIQC INNOVATION LAB, NEW YORK, NY MAR 2023 - SEP 2023 -

Directed a pilot program for technical and creative project development, leveraging innovative technologies to enhance project outcomes and stakeholder engagement.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Techstars Founder Catalyst pre-accelerator, 2023

NYCEDC Founder Fellow, 2023

Applaud Her Awards: 100 Technologists to Watch - Women Who Code, 2023

Google Cloud Web3 Startup Program, 2023

MongoDB for Startups Program, 2023

Epic MegaGrant Recipient, 2020

ADVISORY BOARDS

Visual Effects Society Board of Managers, NY Chapter (2 yrs)

Hubs Foundation (present)

ORGANIZATIONS

VES, WIA, NYWIFT, XR GUILD, NYC:TECH

EDUCATION

• ANIMATION MENTOR -

Diploma in Advanced Character Animation Studies

Certificate, Animals & Creatures Master Class Program

• CONTINUING EDUCATION -

iAnimate, Pixar Artist's Masterclass NYC, Bill Plympton Animation Class, School of Visual Arts, Udemy

• UNIVERSITY -

Studied Fine Art, at The University of Georgia & School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

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