Meet the London mentors
Ria Ocampo
Associate Creative Director at VML London
Ria Ocampo is a Manila-born, London-based Associate Creative Director at VML and recently won the 2026 D&AD Creative Director of the Year. Having built her career over 11 years in Singapore leading global beauty campaigns—including the historic Titanium Lion-winning “Vaseline Verified”—what she loves most about art direction is the freedom to pursue all kinds of visual roles. Whether stepping into the shoes of a photographer, filmmaker, or designer, she weaves her personal creative interests into her projects to make every brief truly worthwhile.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
I’m a true blue 90s kid who grew up on MTV and pop culture. Early on, I saw how creativity and advertising shape that world, but I quickly realized it goes beyond entertainment—when brands lead with real purpose, creative work can actually be a force for good.
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
Creativity, Kindness, Perseverance
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
Mentoring young female creatives has always come naturally to me, and nothing feels better than being a stepping stone in someone’s growth. Having had great mentors—and a few who weren’t—I know the difference real support makes. I want to pay it forward and be the advocate I needed at such an important stage of my career.
What are the top skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
Asks powerful questions, Direct and honest, Open-minded, Supportive, Willing to be vulnerable
Ready to apply?
The best time is right now. Take a chance – you never know where an Assisterhood mentor can take you.