Djuvane Browne, co-founder and CEO of One Great Studio (1GS) has emerged as a trailblazer in the ever-expanding digital design and development landscape in Jamaica and around the world.

With a background steeped in music, sports, and an insatiable desire to learn, Browne’s journey from a curious youngster to a seasoned entrepreneur is as captivating as the digital landscapes he crafts today.

Our Today sat down to learn a bit more about the man behind the business.

In his own words, Browne’s early life was shaped within the vibrant ambience of a music studio, where his father and uncles honed their musical talents. It was within these walls that Browne discovered his
own creative pulse, weaving melodies, building rhythms, and nurturing his technical prowess.

As technology evolved, so did Browne’s skills, and his enthusiasm for both music and technology became inseparable companions. The collaborative spirit of the studio, where everyone contributed their unique gifts, along with spearheading his parent’s business, serving under the leadership at Moorlands Camp and completing his MBA would later become cornerstones of his leadership style.

Yet, Browne’s journey wasn’t confined to music alone. A fervent athlete, he pursued basketball with the kind of zeal that dreams are built on. It was during this time that his potential as a high jumper came to light, illustrating the rewards of exploring new avenues. This lesson, that trying new things could lead to unexpected success, has been an enduring guidepost in Browne’s life.

Entering the world of technology was not a happenstance. A chance encounter with a tech-savvy friend exposed him to the possibilities of web design which he began delving into in the early 2000s. This serendipitous moment propelled Browne towards a path he hadn’t initially foreseen.

Graduating university in 2004, his journey coincided with seismic shifts in the music industry, prompting Browne to recognise the potential of a sustainable career in web design and development. The fusion of his creative instincts and technical expertise forged his destiny.

“I started offering freelancing as a web designer and developer. I did that during my time in college, while also picking up a job in the college’s sports news department where I became responsible for the design, development and maintenance of the athletic department website. When I graduated and returned to Jamaica, I explored taking up a job at one of the existing website companies but didn’t find their offer suitable – so I decided to continue freelancing instead. Years later having built up a stable base of customers, it was clear that there was potential for further growth, so One Great Studio was incorporated in 2012 when Gina and I decided to enter into a business partnership,” the 41-year-old told Our Today.

Gina DeLisser forms part of the duo that spearheaded the creation of 1GS. The co-founder and chief operating officer has played an integral role in the company’s success. DeLisser who worked at the Jamaica Broilers Group in the public relations and training department shared a vision with Browne and the pair merged their skills to form the now decade-old company.

Both were unified in their commitment to excellence and continuous learning which endures to this
day.

One Great Studio emerged from Browne’s aspiration to create a company where he would want to work – a place that embodied progress, global perspectives, and a commitment to delivering value. Under both his and Gina’s leadership, the company has blossomed into a digital powerhouse, driven by core values that echo their principles. These include a spirit of collaboration, a long-term perspective in partnerships, and a commitment to giving back to the community.

Beyond his desk, Browne’s life is a tapestry of passions. He is a devoted family man, cherishing quality time with his wife and four children. His love for Jamaica’s scenic landscapes sees him exploring its beaches and hills, finding solace in the outdoors. A sports enthusiast, Browne engages in ultimate frisbee and basketball to stay active and maintain his equilibrium.

Approaching leadership with a keen sense of balance, Browne recognises that different seasons call for different commitments. His ability to seamlessly integrate work and personal life, often aided by digital tools, showcases his adaptability and forward thinking.

Throughout his career, Browne’s journey has been punctuated by pivotal moments, one of which was a conversation with Robert Levy, which he told Our Today catalysed his full commitment to One Great Studio.

Browne’s faith in the venture was unwavering, and the company’s trajectory has validated his decision.

“I had a conversation with arguably one of Jamaica’s most successful entrepreneurs, Robert Levy around the time I was trying to decide what direction to head in my career. I was serving part-time as the Youth Pastor at Swallowfield Chapel and continuing along that path would have been the natural choice for me to make. But I couldn’t shake the feeling that God wanted me to go in a different direction,” Browne began.

He continued, “We had been building 1GS at the same time, but with a newborn and three other kids in school, it didn’t really make sense to give up the additional income from the church. When I told Mr Levy all of this he encouraged me to continue in my efforts to push with 1GS. After that, I went back to 1GS full-time and that’s a decision I haven’t regret.”

In the realm of team-building, Browne’s philosophy revolves around nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community. He encourages growth and learning, ensuring that every member of the team can thrive and contribute their best. Team time, even in the virtual sphere, sustains the sense of togetherness that has been integral to the company’s identity.

Djuvane Browne is more than a CEO; he is an embodiment of innovation, adaptability, and the courage to venture into uncharted territories. His journey from the melodies of a music studio to the pixels of the digital realm is a testament to the power of combining creativity, collaboration, and unwavering dedication.