Tell us about where you studied and some of your highlights and favourite lecturers
I first began my design journey at Linnaeus University, where I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication + Change. This was where I truly discovered my passion for graphic design. I found myself drawn more and more toward design, which led me to start teaching myself Adobe programs and exploring design theories. The best part was being able to apply what I was learning to projects that tackled social issues I cared about. At that stage, my work leaned more toward mixed media, blending different techniques to create meaningful visuals.
Wanting to refine my skills further, I went on to study Design at the University of Gothenburg, where I earned my master’s degree. Here, my focus shifted more towards digital design, and I started diving deeper into graphic design as a profession.
One of the most exciting parts of my master's program was the hands-on workshops at the start of the term, where we got to work with materials like wood and metal, and experiment with laser cutting and screen printing. These workshops pushed me outside my comfort zone, encouraging me to explore techniques beyond my usual design practice. One of my favorite highlights from this experience was learning screen printing. I loved it so much that, even though I was still a beginner, I incorporated it into my first project.
Another standout moment was my first-year master’s project before summer break, where we worked collectively to reimagine and redesign an alternative policy for a chosen urban environment. My group selected Ringön, Gothenburg, as our site, and each of us used our own media to contribute to the final exhibition.
For my part, I created street signs inspired by the urban landscape. I was fascinated by the creative energy of Ringön—the graffiti, stickers, road signs, and street markings—and decided to document them through photography. I then digitally manipulated the images in Photoshop, transforming them into bold, reimagined street signs. To bring them to life, my teammate Karin Lindgren helped me build sign poles, and we used pillows (which were part of her project) as display structures for my digital artworks in the exhibition. This project was a defining moment for me, as it allowed me to blend photography, digital design, and real-world application in a way that felt personal and meaningful.
When it comes to my lecturers, it’s hard to pick favorites because they were all incredibly supportive and inspiring. Throughout my university experience, I’ve never met educators as open, encouraging, and genuinely invested in their students’ growth. They weren’t just teaching; they were mentors and cheerleaders, always pushing us to explore, experiment, and refine our practice. If I had to name my favourite lecturers from the University of Gothenburg, I would highlight Eva Erwander, Jonas Friden Kihl, Marcus Bergström, Mattias Gunnarsson, and Pascal Prosek. Looking back, my time in university wasn’t just about learning technical skills—it was about discovering my voice as a designer, refining my creative process, and embracing experimentation.
What weird and wonderful things are you obsessed with right now that inspires your creative work?
Lately, I’ve been really into all things retro and vintage, especially when it comes to commercial design. There’s something about old-school posters, nostalgic packaging, and bold typography that just feels so alive. I love how design from the past had a way of grabbing attention without trying too hard. The colour choices, the layouts, the little details—it all tells a story.
Another thing I’ve been kind of obsessed with is everyday packaging. I catch myself studying the design of random items around my house—food labels, skincare bottles, even receipts—just to analyze the layouts, color choices, and typography. It’s like a little game for me, breaking down why certain designs work so well and how they could be improved. Sometimes, the smallest details spark the biggest ideas.
One of my more unusual obsessions is street and road signage. I can’t help but notice things like billboards, road markings, and caution tape. There’s something about their bold typography, high-contrast colors, and super functional design that just speaks to me. They’re meant to be clear and direct, but they also have this raw, graphic quality that I find inspiring. I’ve even started incorporating those elements into my own work—playing with bold lettering, and striking color combinations.
Favourite travel destinations that inspire you?
Travel has a way of opening up my mind, filling me with new ideas, and making me see things from a fresh perspective. These three places have left a deep impression on me, not necessarily because I use their influences in my work, but because they inspire me in different ways.
- Oslo, Norway: Oslo is a city that beautifully blends modern design with nature, and that’s something I really admire. The architecture is bold yet minimal, proving that simplicity can be powerful. Walking through the city, I was in awe of the clean lines, structured layouts, and how typography and muted colors are used in Nordic design. What stood out the most was how the city integrates art into public spaces—whether through murals, installations, or unique architecture. It made me realize how design isn’t just something we see on screens or paper, but something that can shape entire environments and experiences. I took so many pictures of the buildings because I couldn’t get enough of their beauty!
- Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm has this effortless way of combining modern minimalism with warmth and personality. The Scandinavian design philosophy of "lagom" (not too much, not too little) is something I find really interesting. The city has a balance of clean, structured spaces with cozy, inviting details, and that makes it feel so special. I love how everything is designed to be both functional and beautiful, from buildings to everyday objects. Being in Stockholm reminds me that minimalism doesn’t have to be cold or boring—it can feel welcoming and full of character. The mix of history and modern simplicity makes it one of the most visually inspiring places I’ve been to.
- Mombasa, Kenya: Of course, I have to mention my country and the city where I grew up! There’s nowhere else in the world quite like it. The city is bursting with rich culture, and stunning nature. Whether it’s the intricate Swahili architecture, the vibrant kanga fabrics, or the mix of Indian, Arab, and African influences, everything feels alive and full of history. What inspires me the most is the organic beauty of Mombasa—from the coastal breeze to the lively streets filled with food, music, and stories. I still miss the energy of the city, the food, and the deep cultural roots that make it feel like home.
Each of these places inspires me in different ways, not necessarily in my work, but in how I see the world and appreciate design in everyday life.
Tell us about your tools / what tech, programs, equipment and environment do you do your best work in?
My main design tools are Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop—these are where most of my creative work comes to life. When I work on illustrations, I switch to Procreate, which allows me to add a more organic, hand-drawn feel to my designs.
However, before I even open any software, I often start with sketching and brainstorming on paper. There’s something about physically jotting down ideas that helps me make sense of what’s in my head, refine concepts, and bring more clarity before diving into the digital process. When it comes to equipment, I like to keep things minimal.
My MacBook is my main tool—it’s where all the magic happens, from initial concepts to final polished designs. I don’t rely on fancy setups; instead, I focus on making the most of what I have.
As for my workspace, I thrive in a calm, comfortable environment—usually at my desk, in my own space, where I can fully immerse myself in the creative process. Music plays a big role in setting the mood, so I often have a playlist running in the background to keep me focused and inspired. I like having a mix of digital and analog tools, giving me the freedom to either sketch out my thoughts or jump straight into designing, depending on how clear my vision is.
Some days, I need to map things out step by step, while other times, the idea is fully formed in my head, and I can start designing right away. I love the flexibility of switching between structured planning and spontaneous creativity—it keeps my process fresh, dynamic, and exciting every time I sit down to create.
Which 3 creatives do you look up to and why?
There are so many creatives I admire, and shout out to all of you that I see and follow. These three stand out to me, not just because of their incredible talent, but because of the way they bring something unique to the design world. Each of them has a strong creative voice, a bold approach to design, and a way of making their work feel alive.
- Karo Crafts: Karo Crafts has an incredible way of blending retro aesthetics with modern design principles, making her work feel both nostalgic and fresh. I admire how effortlessly she plays with typography, bold color palettes, and handcrafted elements, giving her designs a personal and tactile feel.Her ability to create visually striking yet intentional branding is something I truly appreciate. Beyond her design skills, she has a strong presence in content creation—her ability to engage an audience and build a community around her work is inspiring.There’s a unique storytelling element in her designs that goes beyond just aesthetics; each piece evokes a feeling or memory, making her work stand out in a way that feels both playful and purposeful.
- James Junk: James Junk / Andrei Dominiq is truly one of the standout graphic designers of today, and I’m really drawn to his work.He has an incredible ability to merge bold, captivating design with a thoughtful, social impact-driven perspective. His projects often invoke a sense of nostalgia, pulling from energetic, vintage American advertising, but with a fresh, modern twist. Whether it’s branding, digital, motion, or print, his work spans many mediums and industries. What I love most is how his creativity is always paired with a mission to make a positive difference, giving his designs depth, meaning, and a sense of purpose. Every time I explore his website or social media, it feels like I'm stepping into a new, exciting world.
- Han Guernsey Design: Han Guernsey Design has an eye for typography and storytelling, and their work is a perfect example of how simplicity can be powerful. Her work is always well-balanced, carefully structured, and intentional—each design choice feels thoughtful and purposeful. I admire how she merges minimalism with bold design elements, creating work that feels timeless yet contemporary. Another aspect I deeply respect is how their designs are connected to their faith. Using her creative skills to amplify the work of business, churches and causes. For me, this adds a personal and meaningful layer to their creative work.
These three creatives all have something in common—they create with intention. Whether it’s through bold colors, vintage textures, structured layouts, or meaningful storytelling, they each bring something unique to the table. I look up to them not just for their technical skills, but for the way they make design feel personal, expressive
What are your biggest hopes and dreams for 2025, both for the world and your career?
For the world, I hope we continue to embrace creativity, authenticity, and human connection, even as technology rapidly evolves. With AI becoming more integrated into our lives, I believe it’s more important than ever to preserve the essence of human-led design—the emotion, storytelling, and craftsmanship that makes creativity so powerful. I’d love to see more spaces that celebrate individuality and innovation, where designers, artists, and creatives can push boundaries without losing the personal touch that makes their work unique.
For my career, I want to keep evolving as a designer—pushing my creative boundaries, refining my voice, and working on projects that truly excite me. I hope to take on more passion projects that reflect my aesthetic and values, collaborate with brands that align with my vision, and continue to develop a strong, recognizable creative identity. Rebranding and establishing myself more firmly in the industry is a big goal, and winning this award is already a huge milestone on that journey. It’s an exciting moment, and I can’t wait to see what opportunities 2025 brings!
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