Three FIU Global Strategic Communication graduate students from the Creative Track, in partnership with Miami Ad School, had the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into Miami’s creative community through an invitation from The One Club for Creativity Miami Chapter, FIU GSC professor Albena Petrus, along with Miami Ad School’s Nancy Chang and Leo Ferrari.
Andrea Montenegro, Daniela Lozano, and Ariana Harnisth played pivotal roles in documenting “Creativity: The Impact of the FIFA World Cup 2026,” hosted at República Havas in Miami. The evening brought together creatives, strategists, marketers, and industry professionals to explore how the FIFA World Cup 2026 influenced culture, brands, creativity, and the future of marketing. For the students, the event offered an opportunity to learn from professionals in the field and to actively contribute to the local creative community.
They created content, photographed the event, and covered the evening through a social media takeover. This gave them the opportunity to showcase their skills in a professional setting while connecting with creatives and industry leaders involved in campaigns and initiatives surrounding one of the world’s largest events.
For Daniela Lozano, the experience underscored the importance of purpose and perspective in creative work. “In a world that feels so saturated with content, it’s inspiring to be reminded that behind great creative work, there’s always a purpose, a story, and a point of view.” She was also especially inspired by the presence of Latino creatives and the chance to hear perspectives she could personally identify with. “Seeing people from our community doing meaningful work and shaping culture is incredibly inspiring, especially as a young creative finding my own voice in the industry.”
For photographer Ariana Harnisth, the event offered a new perspective on the World Cup beyond football. She wanted to understand the strategy, data, resources, and people behind an event that captures the attention of millions worldwide. She was also inspired by how simple visual concepts can communicate complex ideas and turn data or social issues into messages that are easier for audiences to understand. Ariana brought that perspective into her photography. She chose a digital camera and a retro-inspired visual treatment to evoke nostalgia, connecting football with memories, generations, and moments that stay with people for years. “My main takeaway is that the World Cup is not only a sporting event; it is also a huge cultural and communication event.”
For Andrea Montenegro, the experience underscored the importance of networking during graduate school and the value of opportunities to demonstrate skills in real-world industry settings. “One Club always helps us connect with more creatives and people in the industry, and even gives them the opportunity to see us in action during these events.” For graduate students preparing to enter the communications and creative industries, these connections can be especially valuable. The professionals they meet today may become future colleagues, collaborators, mentors, or employers.
Participating in the event was more than a chance to join a conversation about the FIFA World Cup. It was an opportunity to put their classroom experience into practice, connect with Miami’s creative community, and learn directly from the professionals shaping the cultural and marketing conversations surrounding one of the world’s biggest sporting events. It also offered opportunities to engage with the industry beyond the classroom and to build the professional relationships and experiences that will shape their careers.
Connect with them on LinkedIn: Andrea Montenegro, Daniela Lozano, and Ariana Harnisth.
