Yumi's Team

Tess Cacciatore is an award-winning writer, director, producer and global peace advocate with over three decades of experience in entertainment, technology and social impact. As the visionary behind YUMI’s Universe, Tess blends storytelling, education and cultural wisdom to inspire children and families around the world. She is the founder of the Global Women’s Empowerment Network (GWEN) and has worked across five continents to empower youth, amplify unheard voices and build bridges of peace through multimedia. Her mission is to unite generations and cultures through stories that foster compassion, imagination and action.

Wynn Waggoner brings decades of business development, strategic leadership experience and LLC Partner to YUMI’s Universe, LLC. A creative force with an eye for opportunity, Wynn has played a pivotal role in building the partnerships from a grassroots idea into a global initiative. Her passion for social entrepreneurship ensures that YUMI’s Universe is a beloved children’s brand, as well as also a powerful movement for peace and unity.

Douglas Waggoner is a seasoned business leader, strategic advisor and partner of Yumi’s Universe, LLC. With a strong background in production operations and corporate governance, Douglas ensures that the YUMI brand is rooted in sustainable growth and global scalability. His dedication to excellence and integrity provides the backbone for the team’s ambitious worldwide vision.

Joel Payne is an award-winning animator and creative director with over 30 years of experience in feature film, television, and video game industries. As the animation lead and character designer for YUMI’s Universe, Joel has brought to life a cast of globally inspired characters that enchant and educate children. His past work includes projects for Disney, Warner Bros. and Universal, and he brings a spirit of wonder and mastery to every frame.

Davy Nathan is a Grammy-nominated music producer, composer and musical director known for his collaborations with artists such as Christina Aguilera, Toni Braxton and Babyface. As composer and songwriter for Jingle – Jangle (Netflix Holiday Feature – heading to Broadway, is experience as Music Director for YUMI’s Universe, Davy creates emotionally resonant, culturally rich soundscapes that elevate the storytelling and deepen the impact. His music helps translate Yumi’s adventures into unforgettable anthems for peace, imagination, and unity. Davy is the co-writer with Tess on songs for YUMI, including the award-winning “Chasing the Sun” (Hollywood Independent Music Awards 2025), “Mother Nature” and the global song that brings the vision of peace through the wisdom of the Grandmother’s (Oba-chan) around the world, called, “The Wisdom Keepers“.

Linda Donofrio brings more than 20 years of expertise in brand marketing, public relations and media campaigns. With a strong background in building strategic partnerships that connect corporations with youth properties for maximum brand exposure, she specializes in creating collaborations that deliver both visibility and measurable impact.

Recognized for her expertise in brand integration, entertainment marketing and corporate partnerships, Linda leads the promotional strategy for Yumi’s Universe, ensuring that the message of peace and global unity reaches audiences across all platforms. Linda’s passion and creativity are key in building visibility and engagement across retailers, TV and Film merchandise integration, schools, and communities worldwide. In her years of experience, she lead the way for McGruff The Crime Dog to become a household name (Take A Bite Out of Crime). She brings vision to YUMI’s Universe for product placement and partnerships.