Dwayne Holness believes your greatest advantage is to be underestimated. From humble beginnings in Kingston, Jamaica to growing up in what many would consider one of the roughest neighborhoods in Toronto, Dwayne has built a career on his own terms. As an award-winning entrepreneur, creative director, speaker and community leader, Dwayne is a testament that the opportunities to succeed as a Black creative are truly endless.
A force within the marketing and video production industry for over a decade, Dwayne is the founder and CEO of Corex Creative – a video marketing agency specializing in corporate videos, digital strategy, and brand development.
His innovative perspective, distinct imagery and innate understanding of diverse storytelling have landed him in the director’s chair for campaigns and productions of notable brands such as, CSA Group, The Academy, TD Bank, Rogers Communications, the LCBO and the Canadian Screen Awards. Dwayne has also been the visual architect for music artists, Chronixx and Lauryn Hill, leading the creative direction for their world tours.
With grit, creativity, and finesse, Dwayne started his artistic journey as an actor on movie and television productions such as Soul Food and Degrassi at 16 years old. Nearly two decades later, Dwayne is a trusted mentor to emerging artists seeking opportunities to enter the creative industry and a community leader dedicated to forging paths to profitable careers in the arts. Through his each-one-teach-one model, Dwayne has contributed over $350k to support emerging creatives of colour on their mission, through exposure, employment and mentorship opportunities.
His ability to motivate others is recognized widely by arts institutions, school boards and corporations, where he speaks and motivates audiences to turn their visions into realities. Currently, he is a mentor at Futurpreneur Canada, Advisory Board Member for ArtWorksTO and Program Advisor for Centennial College. Dwayne is also a member of esteemed industry professional networks such as the Business Network International and the Rotary Club of Innisfil.
Understanding the stigma and barriers that youth and emerging talent that look like him face, Dwayne is dedicated to forging a less difficult path for the next generation of Black creatives.
