Interview with Mostafa Abdelmawla Ali

Design allows me to tell stories, connect with people, and evoke emotions. The joy of transforming abstract ideas into impactful visuals is what drives me. You can say that I became a designer because it felt like a natural extension of my curiosity and love for creativity.

I chose to become a designer. It was a path that resonated deeply with my passion for art, culture, and problem-solving.

I primarily work on branding, illustration, and storytelling-driven projects. In the future, I wish to explore more immersive designs, like experiential branding and interactive digital experiences, but also design more illustrated books and engaging materials for children.

Focus on storytelling, embrace your individuality, and never stop learning. Be adaptable, stay curious, believe in skills, and always seek feedback to improve.

A good designer solves problems; a great designer creates solutions that resonate emotionally, culturally, and universally.

A truly exceptional design seamlessly combines functionality, aesthetics, and emotional resonance. It solves the intended problem effectively, is visually harmonious, and aligns with the brand and audience. Great design stands out through originality, demonstrates technical excellence, and often produces measurable results. Ultimately, it’s judged by how well it communicates, engages, and achieves its purpose while leaving a lasting impression.

Good design simplifies complexity, builds trust, drives emotional engagement, and boosts performance. It adds value by enhancing user experiences, increasing conversions, and differentiating brands. Investing in good design is a strategic decision that delivers lasting impact and success.

If I had the luxury of unlimited time, I would focus on designing interactive educational tools for children that fuse art, culture, and storytelling. I envision projects that celebrate diversity, showcasing global traditions and folklore through a modern lens. For example, creating apps or games that teach history or science while introducing children to design principles. My aim would be to inspire the next generation of creatives and problem solvers by blending learning with imaginative play.

My dream project is a children’s book series inspired by my Egyptian heritage. It would combine rich visual storytelling with universal life lessons, featuring characters that embody the vibrancy of our culture. Each book would focus on a specific aspect of history, art, or philosophy, simplified for young readers but designed with intricate illustrations and textures. The goal is to create something timeless—something that sparks curiosity and builds a bridge between cultures for readers around the world.

The secret ingredient to my success is adaptability combined with authenticity. Design trends and tools are constantly evolving, so staying curious and willing to learn is essential. However, what truly sets my work apart is ensuring it reflects a genuine story or purpose. Every project I take on begins with a deep understanding of the narrative behind it. By staying true to the story and tailoring it with flexibility to fit the context, my designs maintain both relevance and emotional impact.

I draw inspiration from a diverse range of design legends. Paul Rand’s ability to communicate complex ideas with simplicity, Paula Scher’s mastery of typography, and Stefan Sagmeister’s bold, experimental approaches are constant sources of awe. I also admire modern innovators like Jessica Walsh, who seamlessly blend photography, art, and design. Their work demonstrates how design can transcend traditional boundaries and venture into uncharted territories, something I strive to incorporate into my own projects.

My favorite designs by other designers are those that masterfully blend clarity, creativity, and timeless appeal. For example:

- Massimo Vignelli: I deeply admire his work for its disciplined minimalism and focus on structure, particularly the iconic New York City Subway map. His designs demonstrate how simplicity and grid systems can create visually striking and highly functional outcomes.

- Petr Galadzhev: His vibrant and surreal visual compositions captivate me. The way he plays with bold colors and dynamic forms creates emotionally charged designs that are as compelling as they are visually innovative.

- Armin Hofmann: Hofmann’s mastery of Swiss Style, especially in his posters, stands out for its precision and emphasis on balance between type and image. His ability to communicate complex ideas through simple, geometric design is timeless and inspiring.

These designers excel in creating work that transcends trends, delivering designs that are not only visually impactful but also enduring and influential.

My greatest design, and also my favorite, is the "Olympic Sun" children's illustrated book project. While it may not be the most technically complex or widely acclaimed, it holds a special place in my heart because it allowed me to combine storytelling with vibrant, expressive illustrations.

What makes it stand out to me is how the design captures the imagination of children through dynamic visuals, a playful color palette, and engaging layouts that bring the narrative to life. Additionally, the project challenged me to balance creativity with clarity, ensuring the story resonated with young readers while maintaining a cohesive and appealing design.

The emotional connection and joy it has brought to others make it truly special in my eyes.

Improving as a designer requires a mix of discipline, curiosity, and humility. I believe in learning from everything—nature, art, architecture, conversations, and even failure. Seeking feedback and being open to criticism is crucial. I make it a habit to experiment regularly, whether by trying a new tool, working on personal projects, or exploring unfamiliar design disciplines. Staying inspired by others, attending design conferences, and reading about industry trends also keep my skills sharp.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I would have pursued a career in illustration and animation. Both fields share my passion for storytelling and creativity, and I find immense joy in bringing ideas and characters to life through visuals and motion.

Illustration allows for rich, expressive detail, while animation adds a dynamic element, creating engaging narratives that resonate with people of all ages. These disciplines align closely with my skills and interests, and they offer limitless opportunities to explore imagination and craft compelling stories.

Design, for me, is the art of solving problems visually and emotionally. It’s about creating solutions that are not only functional but also leave a lasting impression. Design bridges gaps—between cultures, ideas, and people—and transforms abstract concepts into tangible, relatable experiences. It’s more than just aesthetics; it’s a way to communicate, connect, and innovate.

My biggest supporter has always been my father, and he was the first person to believe in me. While my wife has played an important role, offering invaluable encouragement as I’ve moved through different stages of my career, it’s my father’s unwavering support that laid the foundation for my journey. His belief in me has been a constant source of motivation throughout my growth.

Becoming a great designer wasn’t just about acquiring technical skills; it was also about cultivating a mindset of curiosity and resilience. The willingness to constantly evolve, learn from mistakes, and keep pushing my craft forward has been integral. I also invested a lot of time in studying various design styles and understanding how other disciplines—such as architecture, art, and literature—inform design thinking. Collaborating with other creatives and learning from their perspectives has made me a better designer as well.

One of the biggest obstacles I faced before becoming a design master was my own perfectionism. While it drives me to constantly improve my work, it also created challenges early in my career. I would spend excessive time refining details, which sometimes led to delays or self-doubt.

Another challenge was learning to strike a balance between my creative vision and practical constraints, like deadlines or client feedback. Over time, I realized that perfection isn’t about flawless execution but about delivering impactful designs that resonate with the audience.

This mindset shift, combined with consistent practice and learning, helped me channel my perfectionism into a strength rather than a barrier.

Designers should present their work with confidence and clarity, but also with humility and a willingness to discuss their thought process. I believe the narrative behind the design is as important as the design itself. Presentations should focus on explaining the reasoning, the context, and how the solution fulfills the problem it’s addressing. It’s essential to convey the emotional and intellectual journey that led to the final outcome, as this helps clients, collaborators, and audiences connect with the design on a deeper level.

My next steps involve deepening my involvement in illustration and storytelling, particularly through children’s books and editorial work. I want to continue creating projects that have a personal touch and resonate with a wide audience. I also plan to further explore the intersection of design and art direction, challenging myself with more complex, high-profile campaigns and creative collaborations.

My ultimate goal as a designer is to create work that sparks conversation, promotes change, and leaves a legacy. I want to design projects that challenge the status quo and make a lasting impact on both the visual world and the communities they serve. The end goal is to inspire future generations of designers to embrace their creativity and use it as a tool to solve real-world problems, promote cultural understanding, and innovate for a better future.

People often expect me to bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the table. They look to me for expertise and guidance on how to communicate complex ideas through design. There’s also an expectation of high-quality work, which I aim to meet by carefully considering every detail and ensuring that each project is a true reflection of my skill and passion. I also believe that people expect me to be a thought leader in the design community, contributing to conversations that help shape the future of the industry.

Design plays a pivotal role in shaping how we interact with the world. By creating functional, inclusive, and visually appealing designs, we can influence the way people think, behave, and connect with each other. Well-designed solutions—whether in architecture, products, or digital platforms—can make life easier, more accessible, and more enjoyable. Furthermore, design can highlight social issues, raise awareness, and encourage positive change, helping create a more equitable and empathetic society.

I’m currently working on a children’s book series (called "The Adventures of Foo") that blends vibrant illustrations with an educational narrative and life experiences. It’s a passion project inspired by my lovely wife "Fatma" and baby girl "Frida".

One project that stands out is the children’s illustrated book I created, Olympic Sun. It was a deeply personal project where I drew inspiration from actual world-class athletes to craft a story that blends success, determination, and vibrant visuals. Seeing children’s reactions to the book, knowing it sparked their imagination and curiosity, gave me unparalleled satisfaction. Another project was a branding initiative for a global brand, to create a limited-edition packaging design for the Coke ACN campaign in Egypt. Projects like this demanded a balance between creativity and adherence to strict brand guidelines, all while working under tight deadlines. Knowing my design played a role in amplifying their goals made it feel incredibly worthwhile.

In the coming years, I’d love to see a greater emphasis on originality and creativity in the design industry. With the rise of templates, AI-generated content, and the pressure to produce quickly, there’s a growing risk of designs becoming repetitive or losing their unique voice.

Encouraging designers to take more risks, experiment, and embrace their individuality would lead to richer, more impactful work. I’d also like to see clients and brands value authentic, original ideas over trends, giving designers the freedom to push boundaries and craft designs that truly stand out.

Ultimately, prioritizing creativity and originality would elevate the entire industry, fostering innovation and making design a more exciting and fulfilling space.

The design field is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary, with technology playing a central role. I see a future where AI, AR, and VR become integral tools in creating interactive and adaptive designs. At the same time, I think there will be a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship and authenticity, as people crave tangible, human touches in a digital world. I also believe that storytelling will continue to take center stage, with brands and designers focusing on narratives that resonate emotionally.

It really depends on the scope of the project. A logo design might take a couple of weeks, while a complete brand identity or an illustrated book can take several months. I tend to take my time in the ideation and research phases because I believe that a strong foundation is crucial for any successful design. I also like to give myself room to revisit and refine my work—sometimes stepping away for a day or two provides clarity that leads to better outcomes.

I always start with research and discovery. Understanding the client's vision, audience, and goals is essential. I immerse myself in their world, asking questions, collecting references, and finding connections that might not be obvious at first glance. Then I move to brainstorming and sketching, letting my ideas flow freely without overthinking. Once I have a solid concept, I begin refining it, always keeping the client’s objectives and the end user’s experience at the forefront.

"Design with intention, create with heart." This motto reminds me to approach every project thoughtfully, considering its purpose and impact. It also pushes me to pour genuine passion into my work, knowing that authenticity is what makes designs resonate. For me, it’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating something meaningful that stands the test of time.

I think it’s a bit of both. Great design often sets the trends because it introduces fresh perspectives and challenges existing norms. At the same time, designers are influenced by the cultural, social, and technological trends of their time. The key is to find a balance—drawing inspiration from trends but adapting them in a way that feels original and enduring.

Technology is both a tool and a partner in my design process. It allows me to experiment with forms, colors, and layouts in ways that would be time-consuming by hand. Tools like Adobe Creative Suite or AI-driven deign tools help me visualize complex ideas more efficiently. However, I see technology as an enabler, not a replacement for creativity. The human touch—those imperfect lines or intuitive decisions—is what ultimately makes a design come alive.

My go-to software includes Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for graphic design, along with Adobe Fresco or Procreate for digital illustration. I also use Figma for collaborative digital projects. Hardware-wise, I work on a MacBook Pro paired with a Wacom tablet for precision, and an iPad Pro for digital illustration. But I always start with pen and paper—it’s where my ideas feel most free before they transition into the digital space.

Color is one of the most powerful tools in design—it evokes emotions, tells stories, and creates connections. I think carefully about every shade and hue to ensure they align with the message I want to convey. Materials and ambiance add texture and depth, especially in physical designs. They engage the senses beyond the visual, making the experience more immersive. For me, these elements are the soul of a design, turning concepts into tangible experiences.

I wish people would ask more about the stories behind my designs—what inspired them, the challenges faced during their creation, and the emotions I aimed to evoke. Every piece I work on has a deeper narrative, and it’s always rewarding to share those layers with someone who’s genuinely curious. I also enjoy discussing the collaborative process because designs often reflect not just my vision but the shared efforts and insights of a team or client.

The first thing I think about is the intention behind it—what problem it solves or what experience it enhances. Then I analyze the design elements: how colors, shapes, and materials work together to create impact. It also sparks a sense of admiration and curiosity, inspiring me to think about how I can push my own boundaries. A great design reminds me of the endless possibilities within this field.

My ideal design partner is someone who shares a passion for storytelling and experimentation while bringing a unique perspective to the table. I deeply believe in co-design because collaboration often leads to unexpected brilliance. When two minds come together, they challenge each other, filling gaps and enhancing ideas in ways that might not happen in isolation. Some of my best work has emerged from collaborative efforts.

Mentors early in my career had a profound impact on my approach to design. They taught me to view feedback as a tool for growth and prioritize a design's purpose above all else. Additionally, my wife has been an incredible influence—her insights and honest critiques push me to refine my ideas and strive for excellence. My daughter, even at her young age, inspires me to see the world with fresh, curious eyes.

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon changed how I view creativity, emphasizing that inspiration is everywhere and originality comes from combining influences. The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman taught me the importance of functionality and user-centered design. Another favorite is The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst, which deepened my appreciation for typography’s role in storytelling.

It’s been a journey of continuous learning and practice. I’ve never been afraid to step out of my comfort zone, whether by experimenting with new tools, taking on diverse projects, or seeking feedback. Traveling also expanded my visual vocabulary, exposing me to different art forms and cultural aesthetics. Above all, I maintain a sense of curiosity—each project teaches me something new, keeping my skills sharp and evolving.

Irrespective of time and space, I would first want to meet Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His wisdom, compassion, and profound influence on humanity would make for an incredibly enlightening and inspiring conversation.

I’d also love to meet Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius transcended art, science, and invention. It would be fascinating to discuss his thought process and understand how he bridged creativity with innovation.

Lastly, I’d choose to talk with Salvador Dalí, whose surrealistic vision and bold creativity pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. Exploring his mindset and approach to imagination would be an unforgettable experience.

Each of these figures embodies a unique perspective that has shaped the world in extraordinary ways, and engaging with them would be both humbling and inspiring.

Awards and recognition are humbling because they validate the effort and passion behind my work. However, they are not the end goal—they’re milestones that remind me to keep pushing myself. Fame isn’t something I chase; what matters more is creating meaningful designs that resonate with people. If my work inspires others, that’s the most fulfilling form of recognition.

My favorite color is red for its energy and vibrancy. My favorite place is Egypt, my home, which inspires me with its rich culture and history. When it comes to food, I can’t resist Koshary, a traditional Egyptian dish.

Summer is my favorite season for its warmth and long, bright days. I love football (soccer) - In another life, I’d have pursued my passion for football and become a professional player - and my sketchbook, where my ideas come to life.

As for brands, I admire Apple for its innovation and simplicity, and Nike for its bold, empowering designs.

One of the funniest moments in my design career happened while I was working on a character illustration of a cow for a dairy brand. I had designed the cow to be cheerful and family-friendly, complete with all the natural features that made it look authentic.

During the client review, they loved the illustration but made a surprising request: “Can we remove the cow's teat? It doesn’t look appropriate for kids.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle internally as I processed the feedback. While it felt odd to edit out something so essential to a cow, I understood their perspective and made the change. It became a lighthearted anecdote I still share, reminding me that design is as much about creativity as it is about meeting unique client expectations!

A great day starts with a breakthrough moment—when an idea clicks, and I can see its potential clearly. Positive feedback from a client or seeing my designs making an impact also brings immense joy. To stay motivated, I remind myself of why I started: the love for creating and the opportunity to make a difference through design. Regular breaks to play with my daughter or visit a museum also recharge my creative energy.

Looking back, the signs were there for sure. I was always drawing, crafting, and imagining new worlds. I’d create posters for imaginary events and redesign my school notebooks and gift cards for fun. My family encouraged my creativity, though at the time, I didn’t realize it could become a career. It wasn’t until later in life that I connected my childhood passions with the world of design.

In a thousand years, I imagine design becoming a fully immersive experience, where art, technology, and human consciousness merge seamlessly. Perhaps we’ll design in ways that directly engage our senses and emotions, creating environments that adapt to individual needs. While technology will evolve, I hope the essence of creativity—the human touch—remains central to design.

I want my fans to know that every design I create comes from a place of passion and purpose. My work is a reflection of my journey, my heritage, and my commitment to storytelling. I’m deeply grateful for their support, which motivates me to keep innovating and challenging myself. Whether you’re a designer, an admirer, or just curious about art, I hope my work inspires you to see the world a little differently.

I work independently and collaboratively with agencies and studios as a Creative Director and Senior Illustrator in Chicago. My work focuses on delivering impactful branding, advertising, and illustration projects. I've partnered with Fortune 500 companies and global brands, shaping narratives through a mix of traditional artistry and cutting-edge AI-driven tools.

Design is storytelling through visuals, problem-solving with a purpose, and combining aesthetics and functionality to communicate a message or evoke emotion. It's about crafting experiences that resonate with people while meeting strategic goals.

I particularly enjoy designing packaging and illustrations. Packaging is like storytelling wrapped in a product, while illustration allows me to dive into creative freedom, creating characters and visuals that spark imagination.

One of my favorite projects is the illustrated children’s book Olympic Sun, which earned a Gold A'Design Award. The creative freedom it offered allowed me to seamlessly blend storytelling with dynamic visuals and vibrant colors, resulting in a truly fulfilling experience.

It was an interactive tray mat design and illustration for McDonald’s during my time at FP7 McCann. The tray mat is divided into several squares that need to be carefully folded to make a cow, a potato, a head of lettuce, an egg, and a chicken. Once completed, the origami creations can be exchanged for particular items on the McDonald’s menu. I remember being thrilled to see my work come to life on such a global brand.

Adobe Creative Suite is my go-to platform. I mainly use Adobe Photoshop for building layouts and visuals, and Adobe Illustrator for all the vector art illustrations and character designs. On iPad, I like to use the Adobe Fresco app to do sketches and freehand illustrations.

I also enjoy exploring AI-driven tools like MidJourney for conceptual renders, which complement traditional design approaches.

Honestly, I’m most productive late at night when I can focus without distractions. It’s during the early stages of a project—when I’m working to crack the brief or generate a unique creative idea—that my mind feels most energized and engaged.

I prioritize storytelling, functionality, and the fine details that give a design its unique character. Every element must contribute meaningfully to the overall concept, but my greatest joy lies in creating the initial sketches.

Excitement and curiosity fuel my creative process. As a perfectionist, I often feel a persistent sense of dissatisfaction, which drives me to continuously refine and enhance concepts as they develop and evolve.

Seeing my work in action fills me with pride and joy. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that something I created connects with an audience or achieves a specific goal.

A successful design is one that resonates emotionally with its audience, solves the intended problem, and delivers measurable results for the client.

I evaluate how effectively it communicates the intended message and whether it aligns with the project’s goals and brand identity. Aesthetic quality and technical execution are also huge key factors.

Designers have a responsibility to create sustainable, inclusive, and ethical designs. We must consider the environmental impact of our materials and ensure our work reflects social values and inclusivity.

The design field is evolving rapidly with AI and technology playing transformative roles. The future will likely focus on personalization, immersive experiences, and sustainability. Designers must adapt to these changes while preserving the human touch.

My last exhibition was a collaborative showcase in 2022, featuring a series of vibrant illustrations. I’m aiming for another exhibition in 2025 to highlight new illustration projects and design experiments.

Inspiration comes from art, culture, and everyday experiences around us. I also find inspiration in my Egyptian heritage, my travels, and the collaborations I engage in. Staying curious and exploring new tools and trends will always feed your creativity.

I would describe my style as versatile and detail-oriented, with storytelling at its core. My approach blends traditional artistry with modern techniques, often incorporating vibrant colors to create authentic and impactful designs. Once described as an "Art/Design chameleon," I adapt my work to suit each unique creative challenge.

I currently live in Chicago, but my Egyptian heritage deeply influences my designs. Growing up surrounded by Egypt's rich history, art, and architecture, I developed an appreciation for storytelling and symbolism, which I incorporate into my work. My cultural background provides a unique visual language, blending traditional and modern techniques, which helps create designs that are both meaningful and distinctive.

Pros:

- Rich visual inspiration from Egypt’s history and culture.
- Emphasis on storytelling in design.
- A global perspective that combines Eastern and Western traditions.

Cons:

- Cultural assumptions can sometimes limit creative freedom.
- Challenges in cross-cultural communication and ensuring cultural references are universally understood.

Overall, my Egyptian roots, combined with my experience in Chicago, allow me to create designs that are personal, globally relevant, and meaningful.

I collaborate closely with teams, aligning creative strategies with brand goals. Whether independently or as part of a team, I prioritize clear communication and a problem-solving mindset.

When working with a designer, companies should ensure open communication and a collaborative environment. Providing a detailed brief and being open to new ideas can significantly enhance the results. Companies should look for designers whose portfolios reflect a strong understanding of their industry and brand identity. A good designer isn’t just skilled in execution—they’re adaptable, insightful, and solution-oriented.

My design process begins with understanding the client’s goals, target audience, and brand personality. After research, I brainstorm and sketch initial ideas, then develop refined concepts. I focus on storytelling, ensuring every element in the design aligns with the overall message. Feedback loops with the client and team are integral to the process, ensuring that we refine and deliver the best possible result.

- Customized prints of my award-winning projects, like the "Olympic Sun" illustrated book.
- My sketchbooks, which contain years of ideas and doodles.
- A vintage drafting table that inspires me to experiment with hand-drawn concepts.
- A Dali-inspired clock—a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics.
- Books on design and creativity, such as Steal Like an Artist and Imaginative Realism.

My day typically starts with breakfast with my wife and our baby girl, followed by a quick review of my to-do list. I spend most mornings with my family. In the afternoons and evenings, I focus on sketching new ideas, working on projects, and attending meetings. This is when I feel most creative. I also use this time to refine designs and provide feedback. Later in the evening, I set aside time for research or experimenting with new tools. I wind down by updating my social media or spending quality time with my family. On my days off, we enjoy visiting museums together, which is a great source of inspiration.

1. Embrace failure. It’s a natural part of the creative process and often leads to breakthroughs.
2. Keep learning. Stay updated with tools and trends but also explore traditional methods to maintain a balanced skillset.
3. Build your network. Collaborate with others and seek constructive feedback.
4. Develop your unique style. Experiment with different techniques until you find what resonates with you.
5. Be patient. Success in design requires persistence and dedication.

Positives:

- The ability to create impactful, meaningful work that connects with people.
- Opportunities to collaborate with diverse, talented individuals.
- The satisfaction of seeing your concepts come to life.

Negatives:

- Tight deadlines and long hours can be challenging.
- The need to balance creative freedom with client expectations.
- Design trends evolve quickly, requiring continuous adaptation.

My golden rule in design is simplicity with purpose. I believe that a good design should communicate clearly and effectively, without unnecessary complexity. Every element must have a reason to exist, whether it's enhancing the message, improving the user experience, or contributing to the overall aesthetic. This focus on purpose helps me create designs that are both functional and impactful.

- Creativity and conceptual thinking for crafting unique ideas.
- Technical proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite.
- Communication skills to articulate concepts and collaborate effectively.
- Problem-solving ability to navigate challenges.
- Attention to detail to ensure every element aligns with the overall design.

- Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro), Fresco, Procreate, and AI-driven tools like Firefly, and MidJourney.
- Hardware: Macbook Pro, Wacom tablet, and iPad Pro.
- Books: "Steal Like an Artist", "It’s Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want To Be", and design trend guides.
- Inspiration: Behance, Pinterest, Instagram, and museums.

I manage time by breaking projects into phases—research, ideation, execution, and refinement. I set clear deadlines for each phase and prioritize tasks based on urgency and complexity. Also tools like Bonsai, Trello, or Asana help can help you stay organized.

The timeline varies depending on the project’s scope and complexity. A packaging design, for example, can take 2–4 weeks, while a branding project might require 1–2 months, and a fully illustrated book can take up to 4–6 months.

“Where do you find inspiration?” It’s always a joy to share how culture, travel, and collaboration fuel my creativity. Always pay attention to your surroundings, you'll be surprised.

One pivotal experience was working on Coca-Cola’s limited-edition packaging for the African Cup of Nations in Egypt. I pitched and executed a unique double-sleeve bottle design, which resonated with both the client and the audience. The campaign was a huge success, It was a career-defining moment.

I’ve collaborated with Coca-Cola, Pepsi, McDonald's, Gillette, Nestlé, Chevron, Quaker, Cerveza Victoria, Miller Coors, and Unilever, among others.

I enjoy packaging and illustration because they combine storytelling, artistry, and technical execution. Packaging, especially, allows for tangible interaction with the audience.

My next steps involve deepening my involvement in illustration and storytelling, particularly through children’s books and editorial work. I want to continue creating projects that have a personal touch and resonate with a wide audience. I also plan to further explore the intersection of design and art direction, challenging myself with more complex, high-profile campaigns and creative collaborations.

I do both. While I enjoy collaborating with teams for diverse perspectives, I also thrive in developing designs independently, especially in illustration.

I’m currently working on a children’s book series (called "The Adventures of Foo") that blends vibrant illustrations with an educational narrative and life experiences. It’s a passion project inspired by my lovely wife "Fatma" and baby girl "Frida".

Through my professional platforms:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mostafa-abdelmawla/
Behance: behance.net/Mostafa-Abdelmawla
Instagram: @mostafa_abdelmawla

Or by email:

mostafa.abdelmawla@hotmail.com

I’d like to emphasize the importance of adaptability in design. Being described as an "art/design chameleon" is one of the greatest compliments I’ve received, and it reflects my commitment to delivering authentic, impactful designs across industries and mediums.