Helen Ma RGD

I’m an experienced, award-winning designer inspired by the power of visual storytelling—and the heart behind it. I thrive on transforming ideas into meaningful visuals, bringing brands to life, and creating moments that connect, move, and inspire. From week one of my design career, I stepped into a lead in-house role, and it's been a ride ever since! Over the past 20 years, I’ve led four brand refreshes, mentored creative teams, and shaped inclusive, accessible brand experiences that resonate deeply. Recently, I served as Interim Director of Brand & Creative Services at NorQuest College, where I led creative direction across omnichannel campaigns, brand systems, publications, and fundraising initiatives—while mentoring teams and embedding anti-racism, and accessibility principles into the heart of the brand. As Interim Director of Brand & Creative Services during a pivotal restructuring at NorQuest (2019–2020), I oversaw all brand and creative decisions while mentoring contract designers and managing 100+ inquiries daily. Our campaigns fulfilled fundraising goals, increased enrolment, and strengthened brand trust in our communities. In addition, I lead as a freelance Creative Director, working alongside an incredible business entrepreneur, launching two Vietnamese restaurant brands—developing everything from visual identity and packaging to video, web, and marketing strategy. Our video ads on social achieved a 7.4% CTR, and 500% increase in web traffic. 🏆 Career highlights: • 8 international design & communication awards, including a 2024 RGD In-House Award of Merit for NorQuest’s brand refresh • Art Director and Lead Designer on ad campaigns across print, digital, web, social, email, and OOH • Founder of NorQuest’s Brand Working Group to centre marginalized voices • Co-founder of NorQuest's Anti-Racism Council, shaping systemic change from within I’m a passionate creative leader who believes in trust, transparency, and mentorship—leading with curiosity, clarity, and heart. I draw from both lived experience and leadership tools like Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead to guide teams through ambiguity with empathy. My commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusion is woven into every stage of my work. I’m driven to amplify the voices and stories of historically oppressed and marginalized groups, including Indigenous Peoples, racialized individuals, neurodivergent folks, 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and people with disabilities. Let’s connect—I’d love to collaborate or exchange ideas! 🎨 Portfolio: https://www.helenma.ca