Volunteer of the Month: Sissa Morgado Associate RGD

This January, the RGD thanks Sissa Morgado Associate RGD for her contributions to the RGD community.

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

I started my journey with the RGD in 2020 as an intern, where I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the organization’s work and mission. I became part of the staff after gaining valuable experience and insight into the industry. In 2022, I transitioned to a volunteer role, contributing first to the Communications & Design Committee and then to the Membership Committee. Additionally, I am always interested in assisting with events in my province, Alberta, as I’m passionate about helping to expand the RGD’s presence and impact locally.

Q: What contribution are you most proud of / What experience/memory stands out for you?

I am happy to have participated in creating the RGD’s Google Calendar. I think it’s a very handy tool for designers who want to keep up with the initiatives that are going on. In addition, I am super proud to have worked on the Creative Earners Survey – which I believe is one of the most valuable initiatives for designers at all stages of their careers. The report not only provides us with numbers but also gives valuable insights that help professionals understand and negotiate compensation across the country.

If you haven’t answered the survey yet, it takes about 10 minutes, and you can submit your answer by February 28th. 

Q: What is the most surprising/unexpected thing about volunteering with the RGD?

The most surprising part is how passionate the RGD Staff and volunteers are about their work. I have had the honour of working closely with both and everyone works so hard to bring what is best for our Members. Believe me when I say this!

Q: What have you learned about the industry since volunteering for the RGD?

I have learned that the more we share, the more we learn. The more we give, the more we get. The RGD provides the perfect atmosphere not only for connecting with designers but also for sharing, learning, supporting and growing. Everything and everyone connects to help us build an awesome design community.

“Sissa has been a great contributor to the RGD, especially as part of the Membership Committee. She’s contributed to important initiatives like Creative Earners, bringing professionalism and positivity to everything she does. We appreciate everything she does to help elevate the RGD and look forward to continuing to work alongside her!”

Kyle Schruder RGD

Q: Based on your experience volunteering with the RGD, how would you describe the organization's role in the industry?

The RGD has played a transformative role in my career and profoundly shaped my understanding of its impact on the design industry. As I mentioned before, I began my journey with the RGD as an intern, where I first witnessed the RGD's team's unwavering dedication to fostering professional excellence. Later, as part of the staff, I gained a deeper appreciation for their efforts in creating invaluable resources, hosting industry-leading events and advocating for ethical best practices in the design industry. Now, as a volunteer, I continue to be inspired by the breadth of the RGD's contributions.

Beyond its personal impact on my career, the RGD serves as a cornerstone for the design industry. It acts as a bridge between designers, businesses and the broader public by setting high standards for professional practice, advocating for the value of design and promoting ethical responsibility. The RGD fosters a collaborative environment where designers can thrive while strengthening the connection between the design community and the wider business world. I find it amazing that the RGD is able to support designers at every stage of their careers through educational opportunities, resources for growth and initiatives like career development programs and community-building events.

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?

Volunteering with the RGD has been an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. It has allowed me to deepen my connection to the design community, work alongside passionate and talented individuals and contribute to initiatives that have a meaningful impact on the industry. Through volunteering, I’ve gained valuable insights into the importance of collaboration, leadership and advocacy in elevating the role of design in society.

I would highly recommend volunteering with the RGD to other Members because it’s a unique opportunity to give back to the profession while also growing as a designer. It’s a chance to build lasting relationships, learn new skills and be part of a collective effort to advance the standards and values that make our industry thrive. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain experience or simply make a difference, volunteering with the RGD offers a fulfilling way to contribute and grow.

Q: Do you have thoughts on what you might like to do as a volunteer with the RGD in the future?

As a volunteer with the RGD in the future, I would love to focus on helping spread the organization's message, events and values in Alberta. I am particularly interested in creating initiatives that engage local designers and highlight the incredible resources the RGD offers. By building a stronger presence here, we can help connect designers across all provinces in Canada, fostering a truly national and united design community.