The Copywriter (Not) At Cannes

The Cannes Lions Festival is probably the biggest annual event in advertising. The Olympics or Oscars of our industry, as some may say. However, this prestige comes with a hefty price—one Classic pass costs 4465 EUR (5000+ USD). Most young creatives, with the most hunger and enthusiasm to create, cannot afford this price. For Rafter Manguiat, it costs more than twice his monthly salary.

But as someone job hunting, he knows the benefits that one could get while at Cannes. Maybe he can network, get noticed, or hired. So, he really wanted to 'be there.' And he found a way to do it for free: He placed himself and his portfolio on Google Maps, so that CDs and recruiters could still find him.

After just a week and minimal coverage, the stunt reached 286K+ impressions, gave 1642+ profile views, and a ton of 5-star reviews from top creatives across the globe. The best part is: he got a handful of leads and calls lined up. One even proposed to bring him to Cannes next year.