As a young designer—saddled in the corporate world—it became rather challenging to realize my creative potential. Coerced into a limited paradigm, my creative self slowly started to suffocate. An acceptable brand of work was often the order of the day, leaving little hope of producing breathtaking pieces! You might want to call it Creative Congestion; perhaps a term well suited to describe my expe
rience. It had reached a point of having to cross the bridge: either live with the mundane or venture out on my own. Having embraced Islam during my journey had an enormous impact on the direction I would take. Islam forbids injustices, oppression and socially immoral acts; principles present till today in major religions. Thriving to practice my religion freely—and constricted to accept work only in line with islamic principles—further affected my momentum in a rather profit-thirsty industry. Leaving little to no hope for someone who holds firm to high morals, ethics and values. As a creative individual, solving problems is a part of me and breaking away from the corporate world resolved to be the most promising direction. It took some courage but decision made: If I was going to be able to grow creatively whilst living in accordance with Islamic principles, I had to take the plunge and embark on a creative journey; all on my own. Islam teaches us that this world is temporary and it is the Hereafter that is eternal. That we have to live in this life as a traveler; Allah being the One who provides us with our sustenance. Completely grasping this belief, brings with it a sense of tranquility. It soothes the conscience knowing that I don’t have to drink the “Koolaid” to be accepted or to be persuaded into a position that negates my values. Rather, it presents endless opportunities that—as a matter of fact—were hardly achievable at the office. Living my dream how I always envisaged—whilst upholding high ethics and values—provides me with the confidence and focus to get the job done in the most effective way. I provide individuals and institutions globally with aesthetically pleasing solutions to their visual problems: be it compelling brand identities, engaging graphic design solutions or amazing illustration pieces.
