Fail Forward

“Fail Forward” is an event designed to explore the lessons behind failure in design. Students will hear from a diverse panel of designers across different disciplines, who will candidly share their professional challenges, missteps and setbacks.

Location: Join us on the RGD Emerging Designer Network (EDN) on Discord – under the Student Events Channel.

Speakers will discuss how they navigate obstacles, what they learned from the industry, and how these experiences shaped their approach to design. This event is specialized to humanize the industry, providing real conversations and real connections.

Stefan Canuel RGD

Stefan is an Ottawa-based designer with over twenty years of experience in the creative industry, blending innovation with practicality and a strong focus on results. Known for his multifaceted approach, he forges meaningful connections between organizations and their audiences through clear, effective and thoughtfully managed design and strategy.

Noah Ortmann RGD

Noah Ortmann is a Senior Designer at Significant Other, specializing in UI/UX, digital design and front-end development. With over 12 years of experience, he brings a user-focused, accessible approach to creating clear and intuitive digital experiences across culture, public service and the private sector.

Karen Gao RGD

Karen is a graphic designer and proud graduate of the Wilson School of Design. Her work is grounded in strong hands-on abilities, a disciplined eye for detail and a natural sense of organization that shapes the way she thinks and creates. Karen approaches every project with care and intention-considering the needs of the work, the client and the environment around her.