We Are 
With our creativity & disability
we naturally don’t fit in, and that is ok.
we naturally don’t fit in, and that is ok.
We don’t want to be pressured to be “normal.”
We stand out because we’re born different.
Latest
APAC Tambuli Awards Partners with The Misfits Camp to Support Neurodivergent Creatives
MANILA, Philippines, April 15, 2025 — The APAC Tambuli Awards has announced a groundbreaking partnership with The Misfits Camp, a non-profit organization that prepares neurodivergent individuals for careers in the creative industry. The collaboration represents a meaningful step toward greater inclusion and equal opportunities, while reinforcing Tambuli’s commitment to purpose-driven initiatives.
For the 2025 edition of the awards, a portion of proceeds from entries to the Champions for Humanity categories will go to The Misfits Camp. Founded by global creative leader Merlee Jayme, The Misfits Camp provides training and mentorship to help neurodivergent individuals thrive in creative professions, all under its banner of "Create Different."
“I’m so glad to partner with the APAC Tambuli Awards,” said Jayme. “I have been a longtime supporter and believer of Tambuli’s mission, so it’s great to be working together with them to nurture future talent for the industry. This partnership is truly in line with my thrust, which is to go beyond ‘purpose telling’ and to do ‘purpose doing.’” Jayme, a multi-awarded creative professional and founder of Jayme HQ, has long been an advocate for inclusive creativity. Her work through The Misfits Camp challenges conventional thinking around talent development and promotes innovation through diversity. This initiative seeks to empower individuals who are often underrepresented in the workforce and open up new pathways within the creative economy.
Tambuli executive director and UA&P professor Cris Kliatchko highlighted the strong alignment between the two organizations. “Tambuli is organized by the UA&P School of Media and Marketing, so our partnership with The Misfits Camp is very much aligned with our mission as an educational institution. It was such a natural partnership to have,” he said.
By supporting neurodivergent creatives, the APAC Tambuli Awards advances the conversation on equity and inclusion in the creative sector. This partnership underscores the belief that creative brilliance comes in many forms, and that every mind deserves a place to shine.
https://tambuliawards.asia/news-press-release-chairman-s-message-what-s-newThe Misfits Camp ushers the Year of Creativity and Innovation.
As the Chinese Lunar Year of the Wood Snake dawns, a time of creativity and innovation. Explore the works of The Misfits Camp, where participants honed their leadership, problem-solving, communication, and collaborative skills through introspection and self-discovery. These works are a testament to the power of imagination and the spark of groundbreaking ideas.
Illustrations by: Kev Trinidad, Kevin Jalandoni, Justin Jalandoni, Jaime Sumulong, King Esguerra and Tonie Baronia
Layout by: Princess Bartolome
Storyboard by: Patrick Daza
Copy by: Dubs Wieneke
The Misfits Camp celebrates Autism Consciousness Week.
If we want a world where individuals with autism have opportunity, we should shift the focus from limitation to possibility. The Misfits Camp fosters neurodiverse creativity, empowering individuals with autism to transform their creative desires into valuable skills that enable them to become productive members of the creative industry. Instead of dwelling on disabilities, we invest in nurturing the unique creative talents of autistic individuals.
WELCOME TO
A POST SCHOOL THAT BRIDGES
CREATIVES WITH DISABILITIES
TO CAREER POSSIBILITIES
CREATIVES WITH DISABILITIES
TO CAREER POSSIBILITIES
About Us
Founded by Merlee C. Jayme, a globally awarded Advertising creative leader for 34 years, the camp is a haven for all creative minds with disabilities.
Dentsu Asia Pacific’s Chief Diversity Equity & Inclusion Officer 2021-2022, she firmly believes that no disability should stop creatives from achieving their dream careers in the industry.
All they need is a safe inclusive space, and specialized training.
Dentsu Asia Pacific’s Chief Diversity Equity & Inclusion Officer 2021-2022, she firmly believes that no disability should stop creatives from achieving their dream careers in the industry.
All they need is a safe inclusive space, and specialized training.
Our Purpose
After years in special education schools, what happens now to the neurodiverse or deaf adults with creative talent?
What is their sustainable future?
Here is a safe place that aims to bridge them to jobs in the creative industry: advertising, digital, marketing, and production.
What is their sustainable future?
Here is a safe place that aims to bridge them to jobs in the creative industry: advertising, digital, marketing, and production.
The Camp
A non-stock, non-profit corporation that embodies diversity, equity, and inclusion, giving individualized training and career possibilities to all creatives who have potential, skills, and talents regardless of their disabilities, impairment, and physical and mental challenges.
Our Vision
A corporate world where the richness of creativity brought about by diversity is fully accepted and encouraged, where the mental and physical divergent let their talents flourish and are seen as assets, rather than liabilities.
Our Mission
To create a safe space for a more inclusive and equitable work environment, believing that everyone, even the neurodiverse, has creative potential and should have equal opportunities to pursue a career in the creative field.
1
Assess
The Creative's Talent Assessment
2
Hone
Individualized Creative Programs
3
Prepare
Portfolio Building
4
Place
The Search for Creative Job Opportunities
5
Update
Post-training evaluation
/ Founder and Creative Mentor
Merlee C. Jayme
Merlee is the first Filipino to be awarded: The Creative of the Year for Southeast Asia in the Campaign Asia Pacific Agency of the Year. One of only 8 women in the 100 best Chief Creative Officers in the world, based on the Drum global ranking in 2019.
She is "Chairmom" and the former Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Creative Asia and Pacific, Global President Dentsu Mcgarrybowen, Executive sponsor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion APAC and CEO/Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Jayme Syfu, Dentsu One Manila and the only woman in the 20 top creative directors in ASIA as reported by Campaign brief Asia.
She was recognized with the Hall of Fame Award by the 4As Creative Guild, The New York Festivals Creative Achievement Award, and the CEO of the year by the International Association of Business Communicators. She was the first to be awarded the Creative of the Year by Campaign Asia in 2013. She was Campaign Asia’s Women Leading Change Women’s Advancement Champion for her creative work for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 2022. This year, she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the 4AS of the Philippines and the Creative Guild.
She is "Chairmom" and the former Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Creative Asia and Pacific, Global President Dentsu Mcgarrybowen, Executive sponsor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion APAC and CEO/Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Jayme Syfu, Dentsu One Manila and the only woman in the 20 top creative directors in ASIA as reported by Campaign brief Asia.
She was recognized with the Hall of Fame Award by the 4As Creative Guild, The New York Festivals Creative Achievement Award, and the CEO of the year by the International Association of Business Communicators. She was the first to be awarded the Creative of the Year by Campaign Asia in 2013. She was Campaign Asia’s Women Leading Change Women’s Advancement Champion for her creative work for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 2022. This year, she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the 4AS of the Philippines and the Creative Guild.
/ Creative Mentor
Sam Alapan
Sam has spent more than half of his career in the advertising industry; a graphic designer at Campaigns Direct & Design, a copywriter and art director at Santiago & Puno Advertising, working alongside Merlee Jayme at Ace/Saatchi & Saatchi and a few more years spent with ex-colleagues as a proprietor of a small agency so that he could spend the next decade instructing the next generation of creatives at Mint College. It is not surprising that Sam turns his focus on neurodivergent individuals who have creative potential; hopefully, his own journey might inspire the Misfits to live up to their potential.
/ Creative Mentor
Issel Jayme
Issel Jayme, a De La Salle University graduate with a BA in Literature and a highly experienced copywriter with a decade of industry experience, including seven years in Singapore, recently returned to the Philippines. She currently serves as Creative Director at The Huddle Room, bringing her expertise to the local creative landscape.
Clearly an apple that doesn't fall far from the tree, Merlee Jayme's eldest child has already made a name for herself in the creative world, with a Cannes Lions Bronze award and Gold & Silver wins at the Marketing Event Awards.
Beyond technical skills, Issel Jayme possesses a deep compassion for the neurodivergent talent at The Misfits Camp. As Creative Mentor, she provides holistic guidance, nurturing their unique talents and fostering a supportive environment where they can thrive.
Clearly an apple that doesn't fall far from the tree, Merlee Jayme's eldest child has already made a name for herself in the creative world, with a Cannes Lions Bronze award and Gold & Silver wins at the Marketing Event Awards.
Beyond technical skills, Issel Jayme possesses a deep compassion for the neurodivergent talent at The Misfits Camp. As Creative Mentor, she provides holistic guidance, nurturing their unique talents and fostering a supportive environment where they can thrive.
/ Technical Adviser
j.r. ignacio
J.R. is constantly amazed at being able to carry a computer in his pocket.
Currently on a well-being break. Previously led creative tech teams at AdSpark, Dentsu Jayme Syfu, Digit / DM9JaymeSyfu, Interuptive (Singapore), BBDO/Proximity (Singapore), and OgilvyOne.
For the past 19 years, he has been using computers to create delightful experiences for various brands and advocacies. His work has been recognized at various awards shows including Cannes Lions Change for Good Hackathon, Spikes Asia, AME Awards, Effie Awards, The Webby Awards, Ad Stars, NYF Awards, Davey Awards, Araw Values Awards, and Boomerangs.
Currently on a well-being break. Previously led creative tech teams at AdSpark, Dentsu Jayme Syfu, Digit / DM9JaymeSyfu, Interuptive (Singapore), BBDO/Proximity (Singapore), and OgilvyOne.
For the past 19 years, he has been using computers to create delightful experiences for various brands and advocacies. His work has been recognized at various awards shows including Cannes Lions Change for Good Hackathon, Spikes Asia, AME Awards, Effie Awards, The Webby Awards, Ad Stars, NYF Awards, Davey Awards, Araw Values Awards, and Boomerangs.
/ Finance Adviser
Rochele Masangkay
Rochele Masangkay is an experienced finance operations professional, personal assistant, and
business support admin with over two decades of experience, including several years working
in Dubai. Prior to this, she has been part of the finance team of the advertising agencies: DM9 Jayme Syfu and Dentsu Philippines.
Criteria For Admission
21 years old or older
Gifted with creative skills in any of the following:
writing, illustration, animation, digital arts, film editing
writing, illustration, animation, digital arts, film editing
can function independently on-site or in a virtual setting
has a medical diagnosis of disability
emotionally ready and enthusiastic to try new things
/ Visual Arts
/ Writing
/ Digital Arts
/ Illustration
/ Film Editing
How do I join the program?
To join the program, you will need to follow a few steps:
- Submit an intake form: This form will ask for information about your background, experience, and qualifications. It will be used to pre-screen potential candidates.
- Wait for a response: After you have submitted the intake form, a representative from the program will review your application and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the program. They will contact you via email to let you know whether you have been accepted to move forward with the application process.
- Enroll in the 15-day assessment period: If you are deemed to be a suitable candidate, you will be invited to enroll in a 15-day assessment period. During this period, you will be given various tasks or assignments to complete, which will allow the program administrators to assess your skills and abilities.
- Successfully complete the assessment period: If you successfully complete the assessment period, you will be officially accepted into the program and provided with further instructions on how to proceed. The program will run within a 6-month period from the start of your enrollment.
DO I HAVE TO BE ON-SITE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?
No, you do not necessarily have to be on-site to participate in the program. Depending on your capabilities, special arrangements for face-to-face, in-home sessions may be available. Each student will have an individualized learning program tailored to their needs and the best learning environment.
IS THIS A ONE-ON-ONE SESSION?
There will be instances where group classes will be offered, but this will depend on the assessment of the student. If it is determined that a student is capable of learning in a small group, they may be placed in a group session. However, the program is designed to provide individualized attention and support, so most sessions will be one-on-one.
WHAT COVERS THE ASSESSMENT? DOES IT HAVE TO BE 15 DAYS?
The assessment period is crucial to determine the individual's creative skill/s, overall capability to participate in the program, and fitness to be employed. This evaluation will be used to determine whether the individual will be accepted by the camp to progress to a 6-month training program.
During the assessment period, the individual will undergo various activities and tests to gauge their creative abilities, social skills, and work readiness. This may include workshops, individual and group assessments, and interviews with teachers and counselors.
The assessment period is an important part of the program as it allows us to determine the most suitable training plan for the individual and ensure that they are prepared for the demands of a creative job. The length of the assessment period may be extended if necessary to ensure that we have gathered enough information to make an informed decision about the individual's readiness for the program.
During the assessment period, the individual will undergo various activities and tests to gauge their creative abilities, social skills, and work readiness. This may include workshops, individual and group assessments, and interviews with teachers and counselors.
The assessment period is an important part of the program as it allows us to determine the most suitable training plan for the individual and ensure that they are prepared for the demands of a creative job. The length of the assessment period may be extended if necessary to ensure that we have gathered enough information to make an informed decision about the individual's readiness for the program.
WHAT IS DIVERSABILITY?
"Diversability" is a term that refers to the diversity of people with disabilities. It recognizes the unique talents, perspectives, and abilities of people with disabilities, and promotes the idea that disability is not a barrier to success or inclusion. Diversability includes individuals with a range of Neurodiversity (Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD) and physical disabilities such as the deaf, as well as mental health conditions such as anxiety, and depression. It emphasizes the importance of creating a more inclusive society that values and supports the participation and contributions of people with disabilities.
WHAT ARE THE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES ACCEPTED FOR TRAINING?
The Misfits Camp is accepting individuals with diverse abilities, which include but are not limited to ASD, ADHD, and deafness. The camp's goal is to provide equal opportunities and support for all individuals with creative talents and aspirations, regardless of their background or abilities. The specific disabilities accepted may vary depending on the current partnerships and resources available.
WHAT IS AN INDIVIDUALIZED CREATIVE PROGRAM (ICP)?
An individualized creative program (ICP) is a tailored program that focuses on the specific needs and strengths of each trainee. The program is designed to address the trainee's creative skill/s and interests to help them develop a career in the creative industry. The ICP is created by the creative mentors of The Misfits Camp after a careful assessment of the trainee's creative skill/s. The program will include activities, workshops, and projects that will help hone the trainee's skills and identify areas for improvement. The ICP is unique for each trainee and will be adjusted as needed to help them reach their creative goals.
ARE THE TRAINEES ASSURED OF A JOB AFTER THE TRAINING?
The Misfits Camp will do its best to provide opportunities for job placement through its network of industry partners and connections. The trainees will also be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the creative industry, increasing their chances of finding employment. While it will make efforts to recommend the trainee for hiring, it cannot guarantee job placement after the completion of the training program.
WILL THE CAMP ALSO CATER TO OVERSEAS STUDENTS?
Yes, the camp can also cater to overseas students who can undergo the training virtually. They will still need to go through the assessment period to determine their creative skills, overall capability to participate in the program, and fitness to be employed. If they are accepted, they can proceed to the 6-month training program, which can be done online. However, the requirements and guidelines for overseas students may differ, and there may be additional procedures that need to be followed to ensure compliance with international laws and regulations.
Inquire Today!
email us [email protected]
/ For Assessment
a 15-day program to assess creative skills
/ For a 6-month training
a 6-month training with a customized schedule and courses that will help build each individual's portfolio
*"Please note that the duration of training may vary depending on the individual's needs and progress.
Partners
Supporters
