Written in Partnership with Claudine ArthursIn an era defined by unprecedented challenges and boundless opportunities, a dynamic cohort of visionary women emerges as the architects of change across diverse fields. This series is a celebration of their diverse voices and remarkable achievements, spotlighting the invaluable contributions they make to their industries and society at large. These leaders distinguish themselves through resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to crafting an inclusive and equitable future. Among them is Nourhan Wahdan, a Creative Director and Brand Strategist, who not only embraces change but actively shapes it, leaving an indelible mark and inspiring generations to come.
Her advice: My advice to young designers is simple: take yourself seriously. When my partner, Al, and I founded Pew Design Bureau, we made sure to project a professional image right from the start. This included maintaining an active website, an updated portfolio, and a well-crafted ‘about’ page complete with high-quality headshots. Punctuality, integrity, and unwavering commitment to quality defined our approach. The challenge wasn’t just establishing these standards; it was sustaining them for six years, leading to a reputation that precedes us. The current design landscape can be intimidating for newcomers, a feeling I vividly remember from my own beginnings. What proved instrumental was concentrating on what made my approach unique. I focused on my distinctive methods rather than fixating on the competition. In this ever-changing industry, the key lies in nurturing a differentiated personal brand. I realized that while skills can be acquired, a unique identity sets you apart. My objective became clear: to be sought after for who I am, emphasizing my individuality rather than merely my skill set. This perspective has been instrumental in my sustained success.
Her bio: Nourhan’s journey in the design realm began as the sole creative force in a PR agency, where her adaptability and creativity became evident. Her passion for design education led her to become a graphic design instructor at German University in Cairo & Berlin, where she shared her industry insights with aspiring designers, contributing significantly to the growth of emerging talents. Nourhan’s commitment to excellence propelled her to pursue further education, culminating in her graduation from the esteemed YALE Executives Program. Her creative prowess knows no bounds; she led the conceptualization of YouTube’s inaugural experiential event in Egypt and devised a design concept for Swvl’s logo that illuminated Burj Khalifa and Times Square, leaving a lasting impression.
Nourhan’s expertise was showcased at the AIGA Design Camp in Minneapolis, where she shared her wisdom alongside distinguished speakers, including the illustrious Greg Hoffman, former Chief Marketing Officer of Nike, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in the design and branding industry. Her work has been prominently featured in esteemed publications such as Design Middle East, SceneNow, Identity Mag, World Brand Society, and Entrepreneur (Middle East), among others. With a remarkable portfolio and a dedication to pushing creative boundaries, Nourhan Wahdan continues to inspire fellow artisans, encouraging them to explore fearlessly and dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to their craft. Follow Nourhan on LinkedIn
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.