Design is everywhere, from the billboards we pass on the street to the packaging of our favourite products. But for Salwa Kamara, VR&C Marketing’s Lead Graphic Designer, design isn’t just something we see; it’s something we feel.

For as long as she can remember, Salwa has always been drawn to design. Whether it was sketching random doodles or envisioning beautifully structured spaces, creativity has always been at the heart of who she is. But it was at VR&C Marketing that her talent truly found its wings.

“VR&C Marketing gave me the freedom to explore my creativity, and every client request became an opportunity to refine my skills,” she shared.  

Like many passionate creatives, Salwa struggled in the beginning with client feedback. 

“Rejection was hard to handle, and I would get frustrated every time a client said, “I don’t like this.” It felt personal, like they were rejecting something I had birthed myself. I had to detach myself emotionally from my designs and understand that not everyone sees things the way I do.” 

It’s a lesson that applies beyond design. Whether you’re in marketing, business, or even everyday life, learning to take feedback without taking it personally is a skill that makes life easier and much more fruitful for everyone. 

VR&C Marketing became the space where Salwa refined her craft, learning through trial and error. “Vickie already knew that I had the natural talent before I even joined the company. However, I was given the space to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow along the way,” she said. 

Digital African Professional: Salwa Kamara on Designing for Impact, Not Just Aesthetics

Salwa Kamara

That space to experiment, improve, and evolve is what has shaped her into the designer she is today. Working at VR&C Marketing didn’t just sharpen her technical skills, it also deepened her understanding of design as a language. 

“Before I saw design as just visuals, but here, I learned about design communication and what design truly says to the viewer.”

When asked about a favourite project, she finds it impossible to choose. “I couldn’t pick any single one out because I’m proud of everything I work on. What brings me the most joy is seeing a client happy with the work I produce.”

Creativity can be demanding, but Salwa knows how to push through. “Stepping away from a project for a while often helps clear my mind and provides a fresh perspective when I return. Also , I try to stay inspired by surrounding myself with sources of creativity, whether it’s browsing design platforms, or studying  design trends around the graphic design world.”

Her advice for aspiring graphic designers? “Don’t let the fear of judgment hold you back from making mistakes. Embrace your creativity and be open to feedback, even if it’s not always positive. It’s through this process that you grow and improve.”

From doodling in notebooks to designing for brands, Salwa’s journey is a reminder that talent is just the beginning. Growth comes from learning, adapting, and putting your work out into the world, again and again.