2023 Student Award Winners
In 2023, the RGD Student Awards had over 1150 entries from students across Canada, and the judges have spoken. The winners received $1,000, awards certificates, recognition across RGD communications channels.
52 Pick-up Award for Typography Winner: Russell Banfield-Vizcarrondo Student RGD
Winning Project: Doldrums: A Trip Through History
The project aimed to create an engaging educational initiative on African American history for a younger audience. Typography, particularly hand-done calligraphy inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat, played a pivotal role. The use of dip pens and Winsor & Newton Indian ink added an artistic touch and imagery complemented the typography, ensuring a cohesive visual experience. The fonts are bold and striking for easy readability and to engage the target demographic effectively.
Award Sponsor: 52 Pick-up; School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Paul Haslip
Honourable Mentions:
- Women in Science by Cevat Arda Cem Student RGD, Humber College, Etobicoke, ON
- Fashion Magazine - The Suit, A Modern History by Haley Desilets, Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON
- They Us One by Daria Khazova Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- International Shopping Bag (China) by Rachel Lu Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Shadow Book Jackets by Daniel Shui, OCAD University, Toronto, ON
- Bourdain Book Sleeves by Jenn Stewart Student RGD, OCAD University, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Phil Mondor RGD, Partner and Creative Director at Studio Locale, Kitchener, ON
- Nick Monteleone, Principal at 52 Pick-up, Toronto, ON
- Virginia Quist RGD, Senior Creative Designer at the Alberta Retired Teachers' Association, Edmonton, AB
- Henry Slaughter RGD, Principal at Henry Slaughter Design Studio, Vancouver, BC
- Andrea Van der Ree, Design Director of OK Dave, Vancouver, BC
- Fe Wyma RGD, Senior Creative Designer at Kapwa Design + Communicatons, Windsor, ON
Arnold Street Media Award for Logo Design Winner: Nina Hidaka Student RGD
Winning Project: OKI Donut Shop
The OKI Donut Shop logo introduces traditional Okinawan pastries to the North American coffee and pastry market with a design that exudes happiness and approachability. It blends Japanese and Okinawan cultures, using a round logo resembling the Japanese flag and a smiling donut to convey joy. The "OKI" acronym, containing "OK," adds positivity. The red and white colors signify vitality and purity. This versatile design extends to packaging, wrapping, stamps, menus, and social media to create a cohesive in-store and out-store experience.
Award Sponsor: Arnold Street Media; School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Raj Grainger RGD
Honourable Mentions:
- Coastal Jazz Rebrand by Rachel De Freitas, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Interpret Creative and Performing Arts Festival by Hannah Feir Student RGD, Lisa Visscher, University of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford, BC
- Three Sisters Bakeshop by Ema Hadzimustafic, Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON
- Vancouver Insectarium by Alba Palomar Robisco, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Make it Right by Nat Rozmarniewich Student RGD, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC
- Resolve Brand Video by Tri Nguyen, Sami Anguaya, Tommy Brennan, Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON
Judges:
- Ania Czupajlo RGD, Brand Designer & Content Creator, Toronto, ON
- Brandon Fordham Provisional RGD, Senior Designer at Studio123, Sudbury, ON
- Marin Hudson RGD Partner + Creative Director at Kitestring, Hamilton, ON
- Johnathon Strebly RGD, Chief Operating Officer, Client Services, at Tomorrow Creative Services, Vancouver, BC
- Andrew Terwissen RGD, VP, Design & Creative at Arnold Street Media, Toronto, ON
- Dzung Tran RGD, Lead Designer at Bounteous, Toronto, ON
Artista Award for 1st Year Student Winner: Teagan Ruttimann Student RGD
Winning Project: The Fear Series: Short Stories on Horror
The book design for the Fear Series replicates classic literature publication styles and creatively adapts them to the theme of fear. It achieves this by strategically incorporating materials, images and layouts that evoke an unsettling atmosphere without deviating too far from conventional design elements.
Award Sponsor: Artista; School: Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON
Honourable Mentions:
- FoodShare by Gisoo Kang Student RGD, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
- Dynasties in a Bag by Caroline Zhang Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Book Dust Jacket Design by Hunter Cairns Student RGD, MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB
- In-Residence Magazine: Show Your Colours by Jennifer Sutherland Student RGD, Centennial College, Toronto, ON
- International Shopping Bag (China) by Rachel Lu Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Eugene Artista RGD, Director of Creative Solutions at Artista Design & Print, Niagara Falls, ON
- Graham Huber, Manager, Marketing and Communications, Full-Time MBA at Rotman School of Management, Toronto, ON
- Susan Yang RGD, Principal & Creative Director at Padometric Studio, Toronto, ON
Context Award for Story-telling Winner: Kendra Legault Provisional RGD
Winning Project: Re-Orient
Re-Orient is a series of booklets aiming to educate designers about Chop Suey fonts' impact on the East-Asian diaspora and cultural representation. It prompts designers to reflect on biases and the influence of design choices. The booklets employ stereotypical visual elements inspired by Chinese restaurant menus and medicine packaging, facilitating immediate recognition. As readers engage with the content, they're led to question their initial biases, fostering awareness and critical thinking among designers.
Award Sponsor: Context Creative; School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Kristine Do
Honourable Mentions:
- Doldrums: A Trip Through History by Russell Banfield Vizcarrondo Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Destination by Alex Chen, Sheridan College, Oakville, ON
- Uncovering The Truth by Matteo Ferralasco Student RGD, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Resolve-Brand Animation by Tri Nguyen, Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON
- Frozen Child by Bella Sanchez Student RGD, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- In-Residence Magazine: Show Your Colours by Jennifer Sutherland Student RGD, Centennial College, Toronto, ON
- Visualize by Rowan Wright Student RGD, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Christine Caruso, Senior Associate, Strategy & Content at Context Creative, Toronto, ON
- Monique Gamache, Design Director at Matter, Calgary, AB
- Matthew Johnson, Creative Director at Monday Creative, Vancouver, BC
- Raphael Maturine Provisional RGD, Graphic Designer & Creative Strategiest at ruckus digital, Pickering, ON
- Deb von Sychowski, Creative Director / Co-Founder at Patch Design, Newmarket, ON
- Carlos Weisz, Lead Motion Designer & Video Editor at Filter Agency, Toronto, ON
Domtar Award for Print Design Winners (Tie): Émilie Lévesque & Teagan Ruttimann Student RGD
Winning Projects: Archives Magazine & The Fear Series: Short Stories on Horror
Émilie Lévesque: Archives magazine design employs canvas covers and pin binding to transform print magazines, making them less ephemeral and disposable. With an aim to revive interest in print publications, the design coveys the concept through the interplay of textual and iconographic content, creating an engaging and appealing reading experience that invites readers to appreciate the magazine's enduring value.
School: Université Laval, Québec, QC; Educator Support: Amélie Côté, Maude Bouchard, Louise Paradis
Teagan Ruttiman: The book design for the Fear Series replicates classic literature publication styles and creatively adapts them to the theme of fear. It achieves this by strategically incorporating materials, images and layouts that evoke an unsettling atmosphere without deviating too far from conventional design elements.
School: Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON; Educator Support: Molly Hill, Mike Powell, John Baljkas
Award Sponsor: Domtar
Honourable Mentions:
- Book Dust Jacket Design by Hunter Cairns Student RGD, Grant MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB
- Messy: The creative pursuit of happiness by Camila de Araujo Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Écrans verts by Caroline Lambert, Université Laval, Québec, QC
- Poser by Patricia Marinay, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- RE: The School of Design Triennial Publication by Jasmine Silang Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Cultural Identity by Raven Sommerhalder Provisional RGD, York University, Toronto, ON
- Cunty Magazine by Neo-Aldwin Torres Student RGD, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Seowon Bang RGD, Senior Designer at eBay, Toronto, ON
- Roland Basdeo, Digital & Graphic Designer at Domtar, Fort Mill, SC
- Giulia Bonforte RGD, Senior Graphic Designer at Burrard Properties, Vancouver, BC
- Zoë Boudreau Provisional RGD, Designer at Rethink, Toronto, ON
- Raymond Cheah RGD, Art Director & Graphic Designer, Toronto, ON
- Peter Elima Provisional RGD, Designer at Overhaul Media, Edmonton, AB
- Gillian Goldie RGD, Creative Director at Ginger, Saint John, NB
- Jeff Kulak, Affiliate Member, Senior Designer at Science World, Vancouver, BC
- Viv McCarley, Art Director at Sid Lee, Toronto, ON
- Karen Ng-Hem RGD, President & Creative Director at KAREN NG-HEM INC, Toronto, ON
- Nicole Vallée RGD, Managing & Creative Director at Domino Creative, Victoria, BC
- Sara Wong Provisional RGD, Senior Designer at The Office of Gilbert Li, Toronto, ON
Entro Award for Placemaking Design Winners: Hanseul Jo, Maria Zaina, Khanh Ma Student RGD, Jessica Acevedo Provisional RGD
Winning Project: Raised in Chinatown Exhibit, for the Chinatown Storytelling Centre
The exhibit aims to engage visitors in the stories being told at the Chinese Storytelling Centre, fostering a sense of collective narrative continuity throughout the exhibition. It celebrates Chinese Canadian youth from the 1910s to the 1960s, highlighting their identity, resilience and vibrancy. The approach avoids Chinese stereotypes, focusing on the unique experiences of Chinese Canadians while embracing community celebration.
Award Sponsor: Entro; School: Langara College, Vancouver, BC; Educator Support: Scot Geib, Joseph Gallaccio
Honourable Mentions:
- Your Doctor Said What?! by JJ Eng Student RGD and Samantha Yeung Student RGD, Capilano University, Vancouver, BC
- Let Them Ask by Mariane Gondim Provisional RGD, Humber College, Etobicoke, ON
- The Seedbarrow by Julian Krizsan, NSCAD University, Halifax, NS
- For the Children by Cali Martin Student RGD, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Roma by Fatema Siamwala, LaSalle College, Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Jen Cook, Affiliate Member, Creative Director at Science World, Vancouver, BC
- Logan Brazeau RGD, Director, Communication Strategies at Lett Architects, Peterborough, ON
- Jacqueline Tang, Creative Director at Entro, Toronto, ON
Forge Media Award for UX Design Winners (Tie): Rita Zhan, Jersey Stuart, Shriya Mujumdar, Nina Le & Natalie Zuk Student RGD
Winning Projects: here:after & THRIVE
Rita Zhan, Jersey Stuart, Shriya Mujumdar, Nina Le: here:after is a journaling app that aids users in documenting their emotions and experiences efficiently, especially for those with limited time for self-reflection. It emphasizes revisiting past entries and encourages afterthought documentation. The design presents an uplifting, friendly and simple tone, reflected in its minimalistic colour, typography, iconography and layout.
School: York University, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Dan Silveira
Natalie Zuk Student RGD: Thrive is an inclusive and AODA compliant app, offering plant care support through tracking, personalized schedules, informative content and buying/selling options. The design seeks to boost user engagement and retention by employing design psychology and dark UX patterns, while prioritizing functionality and branding. With focus in UX, the design incorporates colour psychology with simple design and intuitive navigation for diverse set of users.
School: Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON
Award Sponsor: Forge Media
Honourable Mentions:
- LOO by Emma Heckman Student RGD, Joanne Cuevas Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Crossed Paws by Jennifer Huynh Provisional RGD, York University, Toronto, ON
- BC BigTree Registry App by Elias Lemke Student RGD, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Loop - Political Volunteer Management and Engagement App by Brooklyn Louis Student RGD, Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON
- Orbit: The Gender Expansive Reproductive Healthcare App by Theo Odrach Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Nick Caswell, Senior UX Designer at Forge Media, Toronto, ON
- Magued Hanna RGD, UX & Design Consultant at Magued Hanna & Associates, Toronto, ON
- Genevieve Metropolis RGD, User Experience Manager at Shopify Toronto, ON
- Daniel Szilagyi RGD, Freelance UX/UI Designer, Vancouver, BC
- Rhiannon Wyatt, Senior UX/UI Designer at Believeco, Halifax, NS
Gravity Award for Social Good Design winners (Tie): Nathan Leung Provisional RGD & Nicole Zohorsky Provisional RGD
Winning Projects: And Also | Branding a Space for Conversion Therapy Survivors & Unopened
Nathan Leung Provisional RGD: The branding for 'And Also', a community supporting queer youth who have survived conversion therapy, challenges harmful, non-affirming environments. Through playful typography and vibrant colours, it aims to shift survivor experiences towards a more inclusive community that celebrates diverse sexualities, identities and gender expressions. A brand book and an outreach package featuring a zine and pamphlet were also designed.
School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Kristine Do
Nicole Zohorsky Provisional RGD: Unopened is an educational kit designed to assist teenagers during their adolescent years. Inspired by the concept of "Open when..." letters, it provides reliable information in a segmented and customizable format, making it more personalized. The kit includes 16 envelopes, informative brochures and a reflection journal. The kit equips teens to learn and navigate through their teen years, with prompts for guidance.
School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Kristine Do
Award Sponsor: Gravity
Honourable Mentions:
- Gestures Coffeehouse by Rachel De Freitas, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Inevi by Natasha Lee Student RGD, Vylan Tran Student RGD, Tina Ganguly Student RGD, Yu Husan (Megan) Lo Student RGD, Huy Anh (Alex) Quoc Nguyen Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Washing Away... by Mason Stargratt Student RGD, Cambrian College, Sudbury, ON
- No One Wins Campaign by Cassie Valenzuela Poon, Carmen Huang Student RGD and Liza Borissova Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- At the heart of your neighbourhood by Ingrid Wong, York University, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Andrew Boardman RGD, Creative Director at Mangrove Web Development, Winnipeg, MB
- Matthew Cabaj, Creative Director at Kulin, London, ON
- Meghan D'Mello RGD, Senior Graphic Designer at Plan International Canada, Toronto, ON
- Mariana Fernandez, Affiliate Member, Visual Design Lead at Pinnguaq, Lindsay, ON
- Alison Garnett RGD, Creative Director, Founder at Field Trip & Co, Toronto, ON
- Emerald Lee RGD, Art Director at Gravity, Toronto, ON
- Leigh McGlone RGD, Owner & Creative Director at Left Meets Right Creative Co., Halifax, NS
- Laura Prpich, Affiliate Member, Creative Director at Caribou Creative, Courtenay, BC
- Kelly Small RGD, Founder and Chief Creative Officer (CCO) at Intents & Purposes Inc., Toronto, ON
Haft2 Award for Colour Winner: Ellie Kim Student RGD
Winning Project: Brewed In Tune Series
The Brewed In Tune Series is a beer mixer pack that caters to music and beer enthusiasts, celebrating the strong connection between the two. It utilizes bold, vibrant colours, retro graphics, and patterns reminiscent of the 70s, with each flavour drawing inspiration from a music genre, reflected in its colour combination. The packaging creates a multi-sensory experience, blending beer taste, visuals and music bringing people together.
Award Sponsor: Haft2; School: Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
Honourable Mentions:
- Tune Into Your Feels by Haley Greene Student RGD, Natalie Grakovski Student RGD and Mitch Lowes Student RGD, Humber College, Etobicoke, ON
- FoodShare by Gisoo Kang Student RGD, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
- Found: A guide to Self-Care by Jasmine Silang Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- VEGGIE Recipe Book by Alli Thompson Student RGD, Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON
- Unopened by Nicole Zohorsky Provisiona RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Yen Chu RGD, Creative Director & Graphic Designer, Freelance, Toronto, ON
- Shane Collier RGD, Associate Digital Art Director at Evolving Web, Montreal, QC
- Timothy Jones RGD, President & Creative Director at banfield.agency, Ottawa, ON
- Nanistya Martohardjono RGD, Chief Creative Officer at Haft2, Toronto, ON
- Lin Oosterhoff RGD, Associate Creative Director at Funday, Canmore, AB
- Caitlin Wharton RGD, Founder & Creative Director at Studio Millie, Portland, OR
Intent Award for Accessible Design Winners: Khadija Bari, Kenny Khuu Student RGD, Joey Wong Student RGD
Winning Project: Refill: Custom Automations for Your Personal Healthcare Experience
Refill is a user-friendly app tailored for individuals needing to manage medications regularly, with a particular focus on accommodating a diverse demographic through accessible and intuitive design. The app simplifies the challenges of prescription medication tracking and care management by incorporating automation features, including alerts to healthcare providers, integration with fitness devices and customizations for individual needs. The design prioritizes UX and accessibility, making it easy for all users.
Award Sponsor: Intent; School: York University, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Borzu Talaie
Honourable Mentions:
- Multilingual Signage and Activity for Edmonton's Urban Farm by Chloe Anna Student RGD, MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB
- Garofalo Penne Pasta by Cassandra de Vries, Alberta University of Arts, Calgary, AB
- Aimware by Arash Nouri Student RGD, Sheridan College, Oakville, ON
- Orbit: The Gender Expansive Reproductive Healthcare App by Theo Odrach Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Award for Accessible Design Visionist Brewing by Bella Sanchez Student RGD, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
Judges:
- Diana Campbell RGD, Senior Manager, Digital Strategy and Governance at Alberta Blue Cross, Edmonton, AB
- Ben Hagon RGD, President of Intent, Toronto, ON/Halifax, NS
- Josh Skinner RGD, Senior Product Designer at Loop, Toronto, ON
Modern Design Academy Award for Motion Design Winner: Christopher Brown
Winning Project: Nocturnal
The project's goal was to craft a convincing title sequence for a fictional TV show, making it seem real. This was achieved by constructing a storyline featuring a 1940s detective and developing design, imagery and motion to communicate the narrative to the audience. Stylistic choices, like a film noir and Saul Bass-inspired aesthetics, played a crucial role in conveying the show's tone and setting effectively.
Award Sponsor: Modern Design Academy; School: Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON; Educator Support: John Baljkas, Mike Powell, Molly Hill
Honourable Mentions:
- Resolve Brand Video by Tri Nguyen, Sami Anguaya, Tommy Brennan, Algonquin College, Ottawa, ON
- Branding - Maitres Nageurs de la Capitale by Charles-Antoine Boudreault, Audréanne Côté, Sarah Dandois, Annie Pépin, India Tanguay Doucet, Sarah Dandois, Université Laval, Québec, QC
- For Tomorrow & Consciously Launch Teaser by Jiachen Wang Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Knockout, Fight the Plaque-stic by Alison Koo Student RGD, Celina Zhong Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Theodore Daley, Freelance Art Director & Creative Director, New York, NY
- Aidan Searle Provisional RGD, Co-Founder of hood+searle, Halifax, NS
- Ashlea Spitz RGD, Chief Creative Officer at Modern Design Academy, Vancouver, BC
Pivot Award for Information Design Winner: Michelle Tieu Student RGD
Winning Project: Women and Societal Progression Data Visualization
An interactive website was developed to present the Women and Societal Progression data in the UN's Sustainable Development Goals General Report 2021 with a focus on tracking relevant indicators. Each table is designed to contextualizes and reorganizes the information to highlight trends and the filters allow users to delve into specific intricacies of data.
Award Sponsor: Pivot Design; School: York University, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Darren Wilson, Angela Norwood
Honourable Mentions:
- Fjällräven Annual Report by Angelica Blanch Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Interacting with Complex Information by Kala Brownlee, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Vancouver, BC
- Authoritarianism, Air Forces, and Aircraft Suppliers by Justin Chiu, York University, Toronto, ON
- The Met Art Rentals: China's Guanyin by Paige Currie Student RGD, Centennial College, Toronto, ON
- A Day in the Life... by Catriona Nguyen Student RGD, York University, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Kris Atterbury RGD, Specialist, Production & Design, at the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON
- Tara Kerner, Acting Director, Graphic Communications at Government Communications & Public Engagement Department of BC, Victoria, BC
- Brenda Little RGD, Senior Designer at Pivot Design, Toronto, ON
- Stephanie Strawbridge RGD Communication Designer at Government of Nova Scotia, Halifax, NS
- Lulu Tanenbaum, Senior Data Visualization Designer at Northbridge Financial Corporation, Calgary, AB
q30 design Award for Brand Design Winners (Tie): Nathan Leung Provisional RGD & Celina Zhong Student RGD
Winning Projects: And Also | Branding a Space for Conversion Therapy Survivors & Soya Fusion
Nathan Leung Provisional RGD: The branding for 'And Also', a community supporting queer youth who have survived conversion therapy, challenges harmful, non-affirming environments. Through playful typography and vibrant colours, it aims to shift survivor experiences towards a more inclusive community that celebrates diverse sexualities, identities and gender expressions. A brand book and an outreach package featuring a zine and pamphlet were also designed.
School: George Brown College, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Kristine Do
Celina Zhong Student RGD: With an aim to invite people to try new things, the branding for Soya Fusion sauces integrates Chinese culture with vegan ingredients, offering an approachable and distinctive experience. By prioritizing interactive designs that are memorable, the branding creates an experience that is meaningful.
School: Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC; Educator Support: Dominique Walker
Award Sponsor: q30 design
Honourable Mentions:
- Fearce Brewery by Camille Clores Provisional RGD, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Branding - Maitres Nageurs de la Capitale by Sarah Dandois, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC
- FoodShare by Gisoo Kang Student RGD, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
- ReBuild Brand Identity by Alison Koo Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Arizona Zero Proof by Garrett Poon, Alberta University of Arts, Calgary, AB.
- The Ministry of Scoops by Sarah Tan, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- GON Tae Kwon Do by Sol Yoon Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Jon Allison RGD, Founder & Creative Director at Backcountry Branding, Kingston, ON
- Ross Chandler RGD, Creative Director at Becoming Design Office Ltd, Victoria, BC
- Tejashri Kapure RGD, VP, Executive Creative Director at q30 design, Toronto, ON
- Claire Blair, Affiliate Member, Senior Graphic Designer at Earls Restaurants, Vancouver, BC
- Aleksandra Gniazdowska, Founder & Principal Designer at o2Creative, Ottawa, ON
- Donna Graffi-Smith RGD, Associate Creative Director at Deloitte Canada, Vancouver, BC
- Tony Hird, Affiliate Member, Creative Director & Partner at Here Be Monsters, Vancouver, BC
- Adnan Huseinovic RGD, Associate Design Director at DDB Canada, Edmonton, AB
- Jordan Jackson Provisional RGD, Creative Director & Founder at VERNON Studio, Toronto, ON
- Amelia Nash Provisional RGD, Founder & Principal Designer at Amelia Nash Design, New York, NY
- Helena Ng RGD Founder & Creative Director at Helena Ng Design Toronto, ON
- Vince Rozas, Affiliate Member, Director, Design & Production at Sinai Health Foundation, Toronto, ON
SLD Award for Packaging Design Winner: Sandra Dammizio Provisional RGD
Winning Project: OddPop Packaging Design
"OddPop" is a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, featuring carbonated flavoured coconut water sweetened with imperfect fruits. The concept aims to reduce children's sugar intake and combat food waste. Its unique packaging design incorporates interactive, stackable elements to engage kids, utilizing eco-friendly aluminum cans. The tagline "Not Your Average Fruit" and artistic fruit graphics, combined with informative dielines, create a distinctive, eco-conscious product.
Award Sponsor: SLD; School: OCAD University, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Stuart Werle
Honourable Mentions:
- Just Like Home by Hailey Luong, York University, Toronto, ON
- Masters of the Craft Launch Beer Series by Cali Martin Student RGD, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Arizona Zero Proof by Garrett Poon, Alberta University of Arts, Calgary, AB.
- Bloom Tampons by Raven Sommerhalder Provisional RGD, York University, Toronto, ON
- Oystercatcher tinned seafood by Ethan Woronko Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Dynasties in a Bag by Caroline Zhang Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Soya Vegan Sauce Packaging by Celina Zhong Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Don Cleland, Brand Director & Co-Founder at Pendo, Vancouver, BC
- Amanda DeVries RGD, Creative Director & Owner at Eye Candy Design, St. Thomas, ON
- Ellen Evered, Senior Graphic Designer at SLD, Toronto, ON
- Ashe Green RGD, Designer/Creative Director at Ashe Green Design, Charlottetown, PEI
- Yurko Gutsulyak RGD, Owner, Art Director & Designer at Gutsulyak.Studio, Toronto, ON
- Irina Khvalova RGD, Principal at Colourphill.com, Toronto, ON
- Simon Laliberté, Fondateur & Director de Création + Sérigraphe chez BangBang, Montreal, QC
- Alyssa McAuley RGD, Art Director at Believeco, Calgary, AB
- David Nuff RGD, Head of Product Design at Oneshot.earth, New York, NY
- Gary Oakley, Creative Director at SLD, Toronto, ON
- Jennifer Shadbolt RGD, Senior Designer at Piccadilly Communications, Toronto, ON
- Maria Sinisterra RGD, Co-founder and Designer at Tardigrada Design Studio, Vancouver, BC
SLD Award for Retail Design Winner: Rachel De Freitas
Winning Project: Gestures Coffeehouse
Gestures Coffeehouse, an imaginative coffee shop venture, empowers the Deaf and hard of hearing by offering employment opportunities and promotes Sign Language. The visual identity strikes a balance between playfulness and seriousness, with a focus on hand imagery to emphasize that the staff not only serves with hands, but also communicates with hands. Gestures stands out as a unique concept, offering a fresh experience with meaningful mission.
Award Sponsor: SLD; School: Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC; Educator Support: John Belisle
Honourable Mentions:
- Mayumi Clothing by Camille Clores Provisional RGD, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- OKI Donut Shop by Nina Hidaka Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Gerde Art Gallery & Foundation Identity by Pantea Kouhpayeh Student RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Boba Mania by Griselda Normansah, LaSalle College, Vancouver, BC
Judges:
- Beverley Wells VP, Branded Environments at SLD, Toronto, ON
- Karl Chen, Affiliate Member, Senior Graphic Designer & Creative Director, Toronto, ON
- Vida Jurcic RGD, Partner & Co-Creative Director at HANGAR 18 DESIGN CONTINUUM, Vancouver, BC
The Garden Award for Strategic Design Winner: Garrett Poon, Myrrha Tekya Student RGD
Winning Project: Arizona Zero Proof
Arizona Zero Proof is a line of non-alcoholic cocktails challenging conventional drinking norms. Positioned as a game-changer in the beverage industry, it caters to the growing trend of people seeking healthier alternatives. Leveraging a unique brand story and through integrated advertising, it establishes itself as the preferred choice for those wanting non-alcoholic alternatives to traditional drinks.
Award Sponsor: The Garden; School: Alberta University of Arts, Calgary, AB; Educator Support: Darcy Parke, Johnny Talisman
Honourable Mentions:
- Revolution 12 by Julia Do Alamo Provisional RGD, George Brown College, Toronto, ON
- Tune Into Your Feels by Haley Greene Student RGD, Natalie Grakovski Student RGD and Mitch Lowes Student RGD, Humber College, Etobicoke, ON
- Commit by Natasha Lee Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Frozen Child by Bella Sanchez Student RGD, Wilson School of Design at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Keero Cricket Protein Noodles by Ethan Woronko Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Flush: A Public Washroom Wayfinding App by Jocelyn Zin Student RGD, York University, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Miranda Allum Provisional RGD, Senior Art Director at 500 Degrees, Toronto, ON
- Brian Dodo RGD, Principal & Creative Director of BmDodo Strategic Design, Kingston, ON
- Tyson Hynes, Co-Founder & Creative Director at District, Halifax, NS
- Adriana Ivory, Design Director at The Garden, Toronto, ON
- Katie Wilhelm RGD, Indigenous Designer & Consultant at katiewilhelm.design
Works Design Award for Web Design Winners: Sean Reibling, Khadija Bari, Justin Chiu, Gajanan Ketheeswaran, Megan Furlong, Iris Mamac, Madeline Rubba
Winning Project: DES_N SPACE 2023, Design Graduating Showcase Website
Designed to showcase the work of the 2023 design grads, this website is designed in an exhibition format to engage with a wider audience online and help students connect with prospective employers post-graduation.
Award Sponsor: Works Design; School: York University, Toronto, ON;
Honourable Mentions:
- North Bay Laura Hair Salon Web Design by Mufang Cai Provisional RGD, Canadore College, North Bay, ON
- MAIZE Website by Tiffany Zhong, Lucy Benson Student RGD, Emma Heckman Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- PAWS Persuasive Web Landing Page Project by Jiyu Hwang Student RGD, Sheridan College, Oakville, ON
- Lovitage by Helen Nguyen Provisional RGD, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
- Steps Ahead: Guiding First-Time Home Buyers Forwards by Cianna Nicklin Student RGD, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC
Judges:
- Chris Chlasciak, Art Director at Works Design, Toronto, ON
- Jessica Tang Provisional RGD, Designer at Sticks & Stones, Edmonton, AB
- Jess White RGD, Creative Director & Partner at Green Monkey Creative, Baxter Corner, NB
Zulu Alpha Kilo Award for Advertising Design Winners (Tie): Vienne Seto Student RGD, Justin Pinheiro Student RGD & Ingrid Wong
Winning Projects: Baseline & At the heart of your neighbourhood
Vienne Seto and Justin Pinheiro Student RGD, Baseline: Inspired by the words like growth, expansion and non-linearity, selected by students to represent their class, the advertising promotes Conestoga College's 2023 design graduation showcase. The math references and topographic maps symbolize peaks and exponential growth, while the dynamic collages convey success and creativity. Print and digital ads were produced to maximize outreach and generate interest in the event.
School: Conestoga College, Kitchener, ON; Educator Support: Josh Peressotti
Ingrid Wong: At the heart of your neighbourhood: The Toronto Public Library offers free space and a plethora of complimentary resources, which resident of the city are unaware of due to lack of advertising and overload of information on their website. 'At the heart of your neighbourhood' is an advertising campaign seeking to enhance the library's outreach by organizing all their offerings and increasing their visibility by producing and distributing printed and digital assets.
School: York University, Toronto, ON; Educator Support: Zab Hobart
Award Sponsor: Zulu Alpha Kilo
Honourable Mentions:
- WATCHOUT Grad Show by Rachel De Freitas, Wilson School of Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond, BC
- Tune Into Your Feels by Haley Greene Student RGD, Natalie Grakovski Student RGD and Mitch Lowes Student RGD Humber College, Etobicoke, ON
- War Paint Cosmetics by Natasha Lee Student RGD, Capilano University, North Vancouver, BC
- Shambhala Music Festival by Maddy North, York University, Toronto, ON
- Montreal Jazz Festival Redesign by Bella Wei, York University, Toronto, ON
- Alowha, Non-Alcoholic, 10 Mg THC Infused Beverage by Chen Yu Zhang, Yeeun Han, Rania Houache, Soyeon Kim, Seneca College, Toronto, ON
Judges:
- Carmen Fasan Provisional RGD,Graphic Designer at Conestoga Students Inc, Kitchener, ON
- Stephanie Kochorek, Co-Founder / Creative Director at Daughter, Calgary, AB
- Nancy Mullin, Affiliate Member, Senior Manager, Graphic Design at BDO, Saint-Basile-le-Grand, QC
- Jasper Murphy RGD, Senior Designer / Creative Lead at Traction Complete, Vancouver, BC
- John Naboye Provisional RGD, Graphic Designer at DDB Canada, Edmonton, AB
- Amanda Phillips RGD, Creative Director at Generator in Thunder Bay