Jennifer Jako

Jennifer Jako is an HIV/AIDS activist, filmmaker, photographer, lecturer, and designer who utilizes her passion for popular culture, talent, design, and fine art in her work. Born to Hungarian and Italian ancestry, she was raised in a multicultural environment and is fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Italian, English, and some Hungarian, Dutch, and German. This multicultural perspective significantly influences her creative endeavors. As an adept researcher, her inspirations are derived from history, place, and context, which she uses to weave compelling narratives. Jako applies a DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) lens to her work, believing that all disciplines are interconnected, and she draws upon her diverse background to address design opportunities.

Through their collaborative work at Fix Studio, Jako has built a significant reputation alongside her husband and business partner, Christopher John Bleiler. Together, they have successfully designed numerous well-regarded spaces' identities, furniture, and interiors. Moreover, Jako is a recognized author and has written a book titled "Girlfriends."

As an AIDS activist, Jako has utilized various platforms to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic. She co-directed and produced the documentary "Blood Lines," a poignant portrayal of HIV-positive youth, which was broadcast on MTV from 1999-2004 and was lauded by The New York Times as "a pointed, moving documentary... an eloquent plea for understanding." Her activism also extended to television, where she made appearances on ABC Afterschool Special's "Sex Unplugged," "The Jenny Jones Show," and even "Grey's Anatomy".

Jako's work raising HIV/AIDS awareness has been recognized and appreciated. She has received the Red Ribbon Award from the Coalition for AIDS Education and the Ribbon of Hope from TV Cares, Academy of TV Arts and Sciences. She has also been part of the Greater Than AIDS Empowered Campaign with Alicia Keys. Furthermore, she has served as a reproductive health advocate for twenty years, informing millions worldwide about the urgency of the AIDS epidemic. Jako is a member of the Board of Advisors of Cascade AIDS Project and an advocate for improved access to life insurance for individuals living with HIV.

Outside her professional life, Jako is a co-founder of ShowPDX, a biennial regional furniture design exhibit. She has a penchant for photography and enjoys spending time in nature for inspiration. Jako finds joy in sharing meals with her family, including her two children, and friends. She is a Grant High School alumna and an alumna of the Pacific Northwest College of Art which further demonstrates her diverse set of skills and educational background.