Hello,

I’m Nyla McKenzie-Isaac.

As a creative powerhouse, I bring relentless attention to detail and a passion for transforming ideas into compelling, resonant narratives. My approach is comprehensive—no detail too small, no creative aspect untouched—ensuring every project leaves a lasting impact. From self-taught artist to Director of Marketing, I combine strategic vision with community focus to inspire meaningful connections, whether through city campaigns, captivating visuals, or cohesive brand storytelling.

 

My current role.

 
 

Skill Set & Expertise.

 
 

Education and Early Leadership

University at Albany
Bachelor of Arts in English and Art | May 2021
GPA: 3.6 | Dean’s List (2017–2021)
Relevant Coursework: English Studies, Literary Publication, Creative Writing, Tutoring & Writing, Life Drawing, Oil Painting

My academic journey began at the University at Albany, where I graduated with a degree in English and Visual Arts and a minor in Journalism. Throughout my time at the university, I immersed myself in leadership roles, serving as the Director of Marketing for Student Government. This experience gave me a foundational understanding of brand development and team management, skills that I bring to every project today. I also gained hands-on experience working with campus media, designing content, and leading creative projects that inspired engagement and community.

 

Experience.

 
 

Bio.

Nyla McKenzie-Isaac is a visionary marketing director, dynamic event planner, and self-taught artist with an unmistakable drive to create meaningful, community-centered stories. As the first Director of Marketing for the City of Albany, working under Albany's first female mayor, she has led the branding of Albany’s Waterfront, crafted the Mayor’s State of the City presentation, and is working closely to preserve the Mayor’s legacy in her final years in office. Nyla has transformed how the city engages with its residents, using her distinct blend of strategic marketing and artistic vision to elevate City initiatives. She joined the workforce after graduating from the University at Albany in 2021 and, by 2024, was already at the helm of marketing for the city—a testament to her swift ascent and her talent for turning creative ideas into actionable, community-building results.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Nyla’s passion for storytelling and design took root early, carrying her through a robust academic and extracurricular career at the Beacon School and the University at Albany. Majoring in English and Visual Arts, with a minor in Journalism, she applied her skills across a variety of roles, including serving as the Director of Marketing for Student Government, where she redefined branding and outreach for the university’s student body. She also contributed to the Grammy Award-winning Albany Symphony as a Development and Marketing Assistant and worked with ARCH Literary Magazine and the Posh Daily, shaping her as an agile creative and effective communicator with a talent for unifying diverse voices and visions.

Nyla’s career goal is to become a Creative Director at a major media company that shapes entertainment and culture, and she is constantly expanding her portfolio with art that resonates and inspires. She is committed to using her skills in graphic design, social media, and event planning to bring fresh, authentic perspectives to her work, crafting messages that celebrate inclusivity and spark community pride. At just 25, Nyla is already a force in the field of marketing, driving Albany’s community forward and paving the way for a future where her creativity and leadership will continue to inspire on an even larger scale.

my creative philosophy.

My personal brand's slogan is "Creative Powerhouse" because I pride myself on being able to solve any creative problem that comes my way. I have a natural ability to push ideas to their fullest potential, regardless of the resources available. For me, creativity isn't just about generating ideas—it's about taking those ideas and transforming them into something extraordinary.

I believe that every project, no matter its scope, holds the potential to create a meaningful impact. I approach every challenge with a strategic mindset, carefully considering how design, messaging, and experience can align to form an authentic connection with the audience. Whether I’m developing a new brand, overseeing a city-wide initiative, or crafting compelling content, I’m driven to extract every ounce of potential and ensure that no detail is overlooked.

Creativity, to me, is a process of constant evolution, fueled by both inspiration and intuition. It's about pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo, while also understanding that great ideas are often born from collaboration and a deep understanding of people.

I am passionate about creating work that not only captivates but also resonates—experiences that are thoughtful, intentional, and leave a lasting impression. My goal is always to craft stories, visuals, and strategies that are not just engaging but transformative, ensuring that each piece I create leaves a mark.

  • “Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design is so simple, that's why it is so complicated.”

    Paul Rand

Let’s Work.

If you’d like to connect for collaborations, creative projects, or consultations, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me on my social channels or through the contact form. Let’s connect and make something meaningful together!