Entrepreneur • Creative Director • Podcaster

Franjez is the owner of The Yonkers Studio, a dynamic creative hub supporting artists, entrepreneurs, and community events. With a background in fashion, entertainment, and production, he brings vision and leadership to every project. Known for curating innovative experiences and empowering local talent, Franjez is dedicated to building spaces where art, culture, and community thrive.

Artist • Writer • Educator

André LeRoy Davis is best known as the creator of The Last Word illustrations in The Source Magazine, where his satirical and insightful cartoons chronicled Hip-Hop culture from 1990–2007. A celebrated artist, writer, and educator, his work spans magazines, comics, album covers, and museum exhibitions—cementing him as “Hip-Hop’s Official Cartoonist.”

Filmmaker • Animator • Educator

Carl Paolino is an award-winning filmmaker and animator best known for The Paolino Show and MTV’s Celebrity Deathmatch. With over 30 years in the industry, he blends satire and storytelling across film, TV, and comics. As founder of Carl Paolino Studios, he continues creating original works while mentoring the next generation of artists.

Artist • Illustrator • Creator

CJ McWillis is a comic artist and illustrator whose bold style and imaginative storytelling bring characters to life on the page. With a passion for world-building and visual narrative, CJ creates work that blends dynamic art with heartfelt themes. Dedicated to indie comics and creative expression, they continue to grow a portfolio that inspires and engages fans.

Writer • Editor • Storyteller

Jamie Lee Rotante is a writer and editor best known for her work with Archie Comics, where she has penned and overseen numerous beloved titles. From teen drama to horror and beyond, her storytelling blends sharp dialogue, heart, and imagination. Passionate about creating inclusive narratives, Jamie continues to shape characters and worlds that resonate with readers of all ages.

Cartoonist • Educator • Podcaster

Michael Grassia is a cartoonist and teaching artist with over 20 years of experience in comics and storytelling. He is the creator of Get in Toon!, a podcast and resource dedicated to educating and inspiring new generations of comic creators. Passionate about both art and teaching, Michael shares his love of comics through workshops, panels, and creative projects that empower others to tell their stories.

Artist • Speaker • Advocate

Cole Williams shares powerful stories that blend art and social impact. A dynamic performer and speaker, he uses his voice to address issues of identity, resilience, and community empowerment. Cole’s work inspires audiences to reflect, connect, and take action.

Comics Creator • Editor • Letterer

Lydia Mieses Monette is an NYC-based comics creator and co-founder of Life On Saturn, where she writes, edits, and letters original indie titles with her husband/collaborator Dominic “Saturn” Monette. From sleek sci-fi to character-driven drama, her work—including FENNEC and the anthology Rings of Saturn—pairs clean storytelling with hands-on indie craft. Committed to accessible, community-minded comics, Lydia builds worlds that welcome new readers and reward longtime fans.