Tell us about yourself:
Creative Director at VML.
What is the inspiration behind your poster design?
Africa was my chosen word. I wanted to focus on two important things for this poster design: simplicity and. Mother Africa. From the beginning of time, man’s origins have been clear: Mother Africa has given birth to us all and helped us evolve to what we are today. However, from her brow and watchful eyes, she’s seen us turn away from our land.
Why do you love being creative?
For me, being creative is an exercise of being made in the image of God. He is the ultimate creator and therefore, we are made in His image and likeness. When I create, I feel powerful and purposeful like Him.
Tell us about your experiences in the design world…
When I started in this industry, I didn’t have role models that were doing this. So, I had to imagine what I could be when I didn’t see it. It was a challenge being “the one” or “one of a few” in spaces where there was no representation.
How can we create a more inclusive design world and ensure that Black people are represented?
I think we need people like myself and many others who can navigate, mentor and remove obstacles for black creators to do what they do best. We have to ensure we are at the forefront of our own experiences and stories portrayed as a community so that representation is right. Stop letting others profit from our people and culture and shape our own picture.
