Hi, my name is Guillermo “Memo” Duarte. I am a passionate brand professional based in Chicago, Illinois. I am interested in producing brand content relating to education, music, and Latino culture.

Currently, I oversee all branding, design, communication and advertising for the School of Theatre and Music as the Music Programs Manager. The School of Theatre and Music produces over sixty-five public programs annually, seven academic degrees, and four main stage theatre productions. With over sixteen music ensembles, I keep very busy promoting concerts throughout the year and finding creative ways to support our recruitment efforts. I don’t do this all on my own though; I work with amazing faculty, staff, students and many, many creative folks to help get the word out.

I’m also a fierce entrepreneur. In 2016, I found Ajúa DBA Pachanga Chicago, a promotion company dedicated to showcasing Latin music and culture in Chicago. A typical Pachanga consists of live music spanning from the variety of latin genres, an all-star deejay line up, and an artist market; all of this at important venues in Chicago - say like the 94th floor of the iconic John Hancock Tower or Navy Pier.

I have also consulted and have produced some really neat brand experiences for organizations including The University of Chicago, NAIMA, Intercom, Tres Generaciones Tequila, Jack Daniels, and Cerveza Sol.

My growing curiosity has led me to strive to be the best brand professional that I can be. During the pandemic I decided to continue to pursue my education and enrolled to the MS Strategic Brand Communication program at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. I graduated in December 2021.

I now have a large network of both strategic and creative folks alike in the field of communication and new skills to analyze brand strengths and opportunities.

Finally— A little known fact, I am a singer. I have sung in a church choir for over twenty-five years. It is one of my favorite pastimes and could always find comfort and refuge in singing in the church choir.
Let’s chat and discuss visions and projects that inspire us. Contact info below.