Former Meta south partnerships lead Jinu Ben joins CDA Academy’s Creators & Marketers School

In a major move towards shaping world-class creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs, Jinu Ben, former South Partnerships Lead at Meta, has joined CDA Academy’s Creators & Marketers School as director and chief of strategic partnerships.

With over 20 years of experience in the media industry and content creation, including 8.5 years of impactful work at Meta, Jinu brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. His move aligns with the mission to build a global talent hub for next-gen creators, marketers, and entrepreneurial strategists, right from the heart of India’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Calicut.

Founded in 2019, CDA Academy began as an agency-based digital marketing academy in Kerala. With six years of experience and over 2,500 trained learners, the academy is now taking its biggest leap yet with the launch of the Creators & Marketers School.

Backed by a strong legacy of excellence, the academy is recognised for its unique agency-oriented workplace training model, unmatched placement records, and alumni who have been placed across leading MNCs, advertising agencies, e-commerce, and EdTech companies.

Advanced Marketing Manager & Entrepreneurship (AMME)

The flagship programme, the Advanced Marketing Manager & Entrepreneurship (AMME) course, is a 10-month full-time, offline programme that promises an immersive learning experience, building real-world expertise. Learners will work directly with real brands and be mentored by industry leaders, founders, and seasoned professionals.

Learning by doing & earning while learning

The approach that makes the school unique is its emphasis on learning by doing. Learners will not only gain practical experience by working on live, real-world projects but will also have opportunities to earn during the programme. This model ensures that learning remains active, industry-relevant, and financially rewarding, helping learners build both their skills and job readiness throughout the programme.

Jinu Ben brings industry expertise to Creators & Marketers School

Jinu Ben brings with him an impressive portfolio that spans roles as an entrepreneur, radio jockey, show producer, voice artist, anchor, and actor. As a Meta alumnus, he led creator and media partnerships for Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp, focusing on the southern states of India.

A first-rank holder from Madras University, his deep insights into the creator economy, platform behaviour, and content strategies have made him one of the most respected names in India’s digital landscape. Now, he’s bringing that knowledge to the next generation as he steps into a mentorship and strategic partnerships role at the school.

“After leaving Meta, I’ve been working on a new venture—establishing a world-class creators’ and marketers’ school in India. This initiative is my way of giving back to the community by sharing the exposure and experience I’ve gained over the years,” Jinu added.

Launching in Calicut – UNESCO’s City of Literature

“Calicut isn’t just a city with heritage—it’s a place full of ideas,” said the directors, Nidasha Aslam, K T Dhanoop, N.V. Aslam, and Mehar Mahmood. “We wanted the Creators & Marketers School to be rooted in a place that understands creativity and culture, and Calicut felt like the perfect fit,” they added.

Shaping the future of creative talent in India

“Creators & Marketers School carries forward the same values that have made CDA Academy a trusted name in the industry,” said Director K.V. Hudaif.

To support the mission of shaping the future of creative talent in India, seasoned professionals from top agencies and global brands, including Brand Transformation & Growth Consultant Brandswamy, will also join the school.

This strong mentorship will make the school a space where learners grow into confident, world-class creators and strategic marketing leaders. With the school, the academy begins a new chapter—one that’s all about shaping passionate, future-ready talent for a fast-changing world.