Volunteer of the Month: Nico Taus RGD

This December the RGD thanks Nico Taus RGD for his contributions to our community.

Q: How long have you been volunteering with RGD, and in what capacity?

A: I’ve volunteered with RGD on several fronts over the last decade. For many years I’ve reviewed student portfolios and given talks to grads at Cambrian College on behalf of RGD. I’ve presented and reviewed student portfolios at RGD's Creative Directions Conference in Toronto. Currently I sit on RGD’s Programs Committee and host Future by Design screenings here in Sudbury. I’ve been an award juror as well as a proud sponsor of the Studio123 Award for Visual Web Design v.

Q: What made you want to get involved with RGD?

A: Giving back to the design community has always been important to me. Community gives me a sense of place and belonging, the opportunity to connect, to improve, to grow as an individual. RGD is a great vehicle to meet new contacts and get my name out there.

Q: Of the RGD initiatives you have contributed to, what are you most proud of?

A: I am most proud of our RGD Student Award sponsorship. I fortunately had many people help me early in my design career and I feel strongly about extending that helping hand to the next generation. If Studio123’s financial contribution can help a deserving designer get to the next stage in their career, then I’m simply paying that love I received forward.

Q: What is your most memorable experience as an RGD volunteer?

A: My most memorable experience has been to speak at Creative Directions as well as be part of RGD’s Programs Committee. I love to take part in any opportunity that allows me to meet new faces and forge new relationships.

Q: What have you gained from being an RGD volunteer, and why would you recommend it to other members who might be thinking of getting involved?

A: I have gained an appreciation for being part of this great community. RGD has a tight-knit membership and we're so fortunate to have access to a community of members across Canada who are so helpful and willing to give each other a hand. No matter how powerful technology becomes and how seemingly connected we get, nothing beats getting out there and lending a helping hand, meeting new people and making lasting connections through volunteering. Whenever I speak to designers from other countries about RGD they get jealous of the community we have. I am grateful to be part of it.