We are happy to introduce you to the speaker for episode 9 of Lit Talks, she is none other than Anum Ameer. Anum is the design lead at Daastan. In today’s episode, she is sharing all the secrets on how to design a brand.
An insight into Anum Ameer’s world
Despite having an educational background in Software Engineering, Anum found herself shifting towards the world of arts. It is in fact, her love for arts that makes her pursue graphic designing professionally. With almost 5 years of experience in the design industry, Anum has a command on her craft. She has been a part of multiple certifications and workshops on design nationally and internationally. Moreover, Anum believes in youth empowerment and helping the women around her find their voice. Therefore, she is the CEO of the creative venture ARTY, that is an art platform empowering youth and women.
Apart from her love for art, it’s the will to help people that drives Anum to flourish ARTY.
What is ARTY?
In Anum’s words, “ARTY is a digital design marketplace where mostly commissioned work is being done but we also serve as a convenient marketplace for all types of handicrafts and workmanship.” Anum shared that a life changing event led her to start this initiative. In the beginning, she reached out to her immediate family to help her build ARTY. Eventually, Anum found a way back to extend that help to the people around her.
Today, the artists that showcase their work through her platform are her young cousins and women finding their way through life.
Anum Ameer shares her perspective on Design Marketing
Being a design lead is a hectic job, says Anum. Every job has its challenges and perks, let’s hear from Anum what’s her take on Design Marketing.
- Just know that you won’t always be in the best headspace.
- Do your thorough research on the project you’re working on.
- Take inspiration from any place you can.
- Learn to deal with clients effectively.
- Turn away from gadgets for a while to give your best performance.
- Always create a rough sketch in your mind first.
Also, there are so many approaches to design nowadays. But most common classification is that of traditional and graphic designing. Both of these approaches have their pros and cons. Anum expressed her opinion on both. For instance, graphic designing is time saving and reduces the possibility of mistakes. Whereas, a handmade canvas requires perfection and is time consuming. But it allows the artist to pour his/her emotions onto the canvas, which is something graphic designing may lack.
Building your Brand
On the topic of brand building, Anum’s words serve as a reminder for anyone who starting their own brand.
“There’s so much work that goes behind the scenes in building a brand. But most importantly, putting in time and effort to build your own portfolio.”
Anum is of the opinion that firstly, one should build their skillset and then take a leap to create something as big as a brand. She used the same approach before starting ARTY. Therefore, Anum has various certifications in the field of graphic designing.
Role of Design in Marketing
Anum explains the role of design in marketing by giving the example of a house without paint and interior. She says, prior to paint and interior, a house is just a building made up of cement and bricks. Similarly, without design any brand’s marketing campaign is bland. Therefore, design plays an important role in bringing a brand to life and attracting audience. According to Anum, here’s a list of few that should be considered while designing a brand:
- Use more visuals
- Less written content
- Select a color palette that reflects the theme of your brand
- Take inspiration from Pinterest boards and other creators.
Anum Ameer’s Vision and Message
Anum believes that sky is the limit. Therefore, she aims to make ARTY, an internationally recognised platform. Moreover, she wants to empower the youth and women of Pakistan to break themselves free from the limitations of their own minds. In the end of the episode, Anum left a beautiful message for you all.
“Believe in yourself, regardless of what life throws at you. God made you perfect the way you are. The only competition that you have is with your own self. Work hard to be better than who you were yesterday. And most importantly, respect your parents and be there for them. For it is their prayers, that bring you success.”
With Lit’Talks coming to an end, we thank you for following us through this journey. Stay tuned for the final episode in the Lit’Talks series!
