Players in the design space are touting the power of interactions in bolstering the creative industry.

Co-founder of thedsgnjunkies, Samuel Allotey says networking is crucial for designers in Ghana.

He made these remarks at the Final Design Conference (FiDCon) an event, organised by thedsgnjunkies, aimed at bringing together creative professionals from across the country, providing them with opportunities to connect, share skills, and gain valuable knowledge.

"Networking is key because we realize there are a lot of opportunities, but people just don't know where to get them," Mr Allotey said on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

The conference at the University of Ghana featured workshops on various tools and techniques, including pricing, collaboration, branding, content creation, and how to thrive as a Ghanaian creative among others.

Attendees were encouraged to leverage these sessions to learn new skills and make meaningful connections that could advance their careers.

Mr Allotey noted that while the job market may be challenging, design remains a lucrative field. He encouraged designers to use their skills to create their own opportunities rather than waiting for traditional employment.

The event is part of thedsgnjunkies broader mission to advocate for the design community in Ghana and provide a platform for talented individuals to shine.

Creative Director of Third Law, Daniel Ampofo told journalists about how design has the power to transcend borders and open up vast opportunities.

He led a presentation on how to thrive as a Ghanaian creative.

"Thriving as a designer in Ghana isn't just about local opportunities," Mr Ampofo noted.

"It's about accessing a global platform, thanks to the rise of remote work. The world is now a designer's playground, offering myriad possibilities."

Remote work, according to Mr Ampofo, is a significant factor in this expansion. He explained that It allows designers to tap into international markets, diversify their portfolios, and gain exposure to varied cultural aesthetics.  

"The design industry offers substantial financial rewards, and I have been enjoying it so far."

He suggested that the industry's profitability is a compelling reason for more individuals to consider pursuing a career in design.

The spirit of collaboration was high on the agenda for Emmanuel Agbeko Gamor, Senior Manager at MTN Ghana.

During the panel discussion, the entrepreneur and innovator emphasised the sustainability that lies in working with a group rather than executing tasks in isolation.

“You can go fast alone, but the deeper and collaborative success you muscle you build allows you to have staying power than your competitor,” he explained.

The issue of pricing was also dissected on the day.

Chief Executive of Vome Studios, Joshua Cleopas walked the designers through the best ways to go about charging clients.

Content creator, Kwadwo Sheldon also shared some nuggets in the social media space and how users can maximize the platforms.

The final design conference brought together industry experts, aspiring designers, and stakeholders.

Looking ahead, thedsgnjunkies plans to host more events and continue their advocacy through various channels, including podcasts and YouTube, to further support the design community.

The author, Kenneth Awotwe Darko is a culture journalist, social media analyst and tech enthusiast.

Follow him on Twitter via @TheKennethDarko on Facebook, Kenneth Awotwe Darko and @TheKenDarko on Instagram.

Email: Kenneth.darko@myjoyonline.com