“This company has the great balance of youth and energy combined with the necessary experience to flourish in the entertainment realm. This balance allows for a no-boundaries type of mentality with our creative content and business model.” – Adrian Walker, Founder & CEO
Adrian Walker, CEO
Adrian has a Bachelor of Science and Engineering but started his entertainment career managing local bands and singers in 2004. Later, he turned his focus to screenwriting, a passion he had for many years. After encouragement from other well-known filmmakers, he found a different route to the film industry. He carved out his own space by starting First Element Entertainment in 2009. “I don’t want First Element to be like every other entertainment company. I want the vibe here with our artists, partners, staff, and the community to be a welcoming one where creativity can thrive.”
Robert Presnell, COO
Rob, a native of Detroit, started his professional career as a business consultant for one of the largest firms in the nation, serving both public and private executive level clients. While acquiring his MBA at the University of Michigan, he linked up with his old roommate and CEO of First Element, Adrian Walker. Since then the two have combined forces to move First Element into the next phase of growth for the company.
Edgar Garza, Director of Operations – Film & Digital Media
Edgar is also a Detroit native with a keen eye for talent and emerging entertainment opportunities. While spending the last five years in Los Angeles and Chicago, Edgar has experience with a wide variety of projects, which allows him to be a trusted Director for First Element. “I’m always excited to seek new things and push a path ahead where one currently doesn’t exist.”
Mohan Yellapantula, Producer – Film and Digital Media
Mohan got his start in the U.S. film industry working on First Element’s The Art of Power. However, he is no stranger to the film industry as a whole. Mohan has worked with key players of the Bollywood film industry, including talented cinematographers and post-production experts. Mohan looks to help First Element continue to expand its international presence.
Sai Vummethala, Producer – Film and Digital Media
Sai turned his passion for independent film into action when he joined the First Element team on its first film project, The Art of Power. Adrian and Sai first met in 2006 while working on a project in Mexico and haven’t parted ways since. Sai’s production talents extend from helping manage the budget to directing marketing efforts.
Leah Sipher-Mann, Social Media Strategy
After graduating with a BA in political science, Leah worked in radio production for two years before transitioning to a marketing position manager for one of the region’s top Marketing Firms. She specializes in social media and e-enterprise. Leah also has experience in web-based consulting and high-traffic blogging. She was a producer on First Element’s The Art of Power.
