Today we’d like to introduce you to Maks Stepenko.
Hi Maks, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My career started far from code and boardrooms — I worked in television as a stylist and makeup artist. That world trained my eye and instincts early: perception matters, details matter, and nothing exists in isolation.
About a decade ago, I transitioned into digital and founded The First The Last®, a creative agency focused on design, technology, and strategy. What began as a small studio grew into an international team working with real estate developers, fintech companies, cultural institutions, and global brands.
Along the way, our work has been recognized by major international awards, including the Webby Awards and Red Dot Grand Prix, and I was invited to serve as a juror and voting member for leading global competitions.
Today, I split my time between leading the agency and shaping products as a Creative Director in real estate. I don’t see these roles as separate — they inform each other. My path has never been linear, but every step sharpened the same skill: turning complex ideas into clear, meaningful experiences that drive real impact.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The hardest part wasn’t starting — it was staying consistent while the stakes kept rising. Growth brings pressure: financial responsibility, client expectations, and the constant need to evolve faster than the market.
I also had to unlearn the idea that talent alone is enough. At some point, discipline, structure, and hard decisions matter more than inspiration. Some of the toughest moments came from saying no — to projects, to opportunities, and sometimes to people — in order to protect the long-term vision.
Those moments shaped my leadership style far more than any success ever did.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m known for building award-winning digital experiences that balance creativity with structure. Industry recognition matters to me because it’s independent validation from peers, not marketing.
According to Awwwards, my agency is ranked among the top 7 studios in the U.S. for developing unique, custom websites, which reflects long-term consistency rather than a single success.
What sets me apart is perspective: I don’t design for trends or visuals alone — I design systems that scale, perform, and endure.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
I was a rebellious kid — drawn to punk culture, questioning rules, and pushing back against anything that felt imposed. That mindset never disappeared; you can still see it in my work today, in how I challenge conventions and approach design.
I grew up in a working-class family, where independence and resilience weren’t concepts — they were everyday reality. Those early influences shaped how I think, create, and lead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thefirstthelast.agency
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/thefirstthelast.agency/
