Florida A&M University School of Journalism & Graphic Communication alum Jaylen Christie continues to make waves in the marketing and communications industry with his recent win at the international MarCom Awards. Christie, known for his fun approach to public relations, clinched the prestigious award for the hyperlocal PR campaign he crafted for his new comic book series, “Stink Bomb Man and The Brain Kids.”
The MarCom Awards, renowned for celebrating excellence in marketing and communication, serves as a testament to Christie’s dedication, creativity, and tenacity. His achievement underscores the impact of his strategic campaigns and the recognition they garner on a regional scale.
Reflecting on his win, Christie shared, “God is good! With a budget of zero, I developed a PR plan, implemented it, and earned wonderful results. Winning this award proves that hard work does pay off and I am so appreciative of everything FAMU taught me about going after what you want.”
“Stink Bomb Man and The Brain Kids” follows the story of three Black superheroes working together to stop a nefarious business tycoon in the fictional city of Princeton Bay. Stink Bomb Man, a super-powered alien, is also working to assist The Brain Kids, siblings who rely on science to stop villains, in their crusade to find their missing father. The first issue published during Black History Month last year and is part of a six-issue miniseries.
Christie’s campaign for “Stink Bomb Man and The Brain Kids,” which he wrote and illustrated, exemplifies the fusion of creativity and strategic thinking. By leveraging hyperlocal PR tactics, he effectively engaged with Black and brown communities, generating buzz and enthusiasm for his series. Christie, who is based in Orlando, Florida, took to the streets to speak in schools and also secured interviews with several Orlando-area news stations, radio stations, newspapers and podcasts to get the word out about his comic book. His ability to authentically connect with audiences resonated deeply, ultimately contributing to the success of the campaign. In fact, this is the second accolade he has won for the PR strategy he developed for his comic book.
The recognition Christie has received serves as inspiration for aspiring professionals in the field of public relations. His journey from FAMU student to award-winning alum showcases the power of betting on yourself. As the communication landscape continues to evolve, Christie’s win serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and creativity. By embracing new approaches and staying true to the essence of storytelling, professionals can create impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences on a profound level.
With his sights set on future endeavors, including a short film and a series of comedic novels, Christie remains committed to crafting compelling narratives and fostering meaningful connections through his work. His MarCom Award win serves as a reminder of the limitless potential inherent in storytelling and the profound impact it can have on audiences.
