Hi, we’re Pono.

Hi, we’re Pono.

Hi, we’re Pono.

Pono is a team of artists providing design, creative direction, animation, video, development, writing, brand strategy, and SEO services. Our collective model supports our client's creative needs, with the ability to evolve as those needs change.

Pono was founded in Chicago and operates as a 100% remote creative agency with a talent pool and client roster not limited to one location.

Minority-Owned & Operated

20 Years of Experience

Team of Diverse Talent

We Give Back Through Design

Directed & filmed by @danwucreative

A little history

Pono was founded by long-time colleagues Lauren Okura and Paul Maeda. Their previous professional experience ranged from working at creative agencies to in-house at tech companies. They've supported brand, marketing, and sales enablement assets for businesses ranging from startups to multi-billion dollar global corporations.

This perspective and experience taught them some of the most effective and positive ways to work:

  • Open communication with clients & and partners
  • Collaboration between all teams
  • Understanding brands and going beyond "making things pretty"
  • A commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, & Accessibility
  • A culture that prioritizes respect for time, talent, and people
  • Giving back through design to non-profits

our collective team

Throughout their careers, Lauren and Paul met and worked with many talented people who have gone on to work for some of the most prestigious design agencies and multi-billion dollar companies. Through Pono, we conceptualize, collaborate, and create together. It’s in these interactions between experienced, creative leaders that great work is born.

The founders

Lauren Okura
She/Her
Executive Creative Director & Co-Founder
Paul Maeda
Executive Creative Director & Co-Founder