Who
 
 
Think the same old way; achieve the same old results. All of us at Blackbox continue to earn our reputations as disruptors of the ordinary in all that we do. Developing strategically sound employee and business-to-business communications that fully activate your community is our passion. As extensively experienced originals we continuously ask, “how does this add value?”, “how does this meet your objectives?”, and “how can I support you better?”, as we produce results that incite your brand community and improve performance.
Jeffrey Whitaker

President / Partner

Jeffrey is the catalyst for every Blackbox-created event, communication, video and design program, fusing client needs, creative solutions and production realities into programs that speak to audiences and cause action as they incite your organization. As one of the industry’s most experienced partners with work for CIBC, Hershey, BMW, IBM, Oracle, Hydro One, and RBC globally, Jeffrey has a keen understanding of how to make important ideas work to well-managed investments.

 
Melissa Elliott

Executive Producer / Partner

Melissa’s production and organizational mastery has cast her in a leadership role as essential translator between strategy, creativity and reality. Chrysler, Alias|Wavefront, Cognos, HP, IBM and Investors Group are a few of those to have trusted her to ensure everything – no matter how seemingly impossible, gets done to the most stringent of expectations. Nothing else will do for a leader who champions “integrity” as a communication expert’s most essential trait.

 
Laurie-Shawn Borzovoy

VP Creative Services

As a passionate brand advocate for a diverse spectrum of communications programs, Laurie-Shawn’s commitment to excellence and innovation is legendary. For two decades he has been inspiring and building rich communities through the design of strategic breakthrough experiences for interactive and online media, themed environments and award winning international live events. Laurie-Shawn has provided creative direction to some of the most well-known brands including Microsoft, IBM, Ford, Nortel, RBC, Allstream, Hydro One, Honda/Acura, and Allergan.

 
Tanya Labutte

Senior Producer

If the request seems crazy. If the event staging seems overwhelming. If the video production deadline is pressing with alarming speed. If anything stands in your way, there are no “ifs.” Tanya Labutte simply gets it done. Experienced in communications, design and digital media for more than a decade, the likes of General Motors, HP, Pfizer, RBC and TD Canada Trust have sought Tanya for her soothing influence, steadfast demeanor and ability to make every project absolutely right.

 
Matina Kalkounis

Senior Project Manager

Celebrities, executives, sports teams, and stage bands have all experienced Matina’s welcoming smile while she’s been busy exceeding their expectations of what great service means. More than 16 years in the hospitality and event planning industry have given Matina the confidence to keep her smile glowing while successfully delivering high profile events for VIP groups. Matina's recent list of satisfied clients includes TD Bank, Molson, Nascar, and Volvo Canada.

 
Rachel Folk

Project Manager

Born to plan and deliver events with passion, Rachel began interning at Blackbox at a very young age as a means to augment her studies in Special Events Planning. She has trained with the best on critical events for major organizations including Cognos, IBM, RIM, Telus and Astral Media Radio. Now a young and enthusiastic professional, Rachel brings immense energy, unflagging attention to detail, and a fresh dynamic perspective to all that she touches. Rachel thrives on being calm and cool during the hectic moments of product launches, conferences and any size or type of meeting or event.

 
Soma Su

Project Manager

Soma never fails to impress with her invigorating dedication and insight. And after nearly two decades of hard-core experience in corporate event management for some of the fastest moving companies in North America, she has earned her solid reputation for excellence. Soma’s broad background includes any type of meeting, conference, trade show, road show, and incentive program you can think of. Clients that have benefited from Soma’s attention to detail, industry knowledge and reliable leadership include TD Canada Trust, GSK, GM, CIBC, Ericsson, RIM and RealNetworks.