While Paula Scher, at 75, declared that she is not done yet, Chris Do provided practical tools to master your next sales pitch — on November 2–3 the creative industry came together for our DesignThinkers Conference to celebrate everything design.

Hugs were exchanged, ideas shared and connections made — in what was our highest attendance ever; the energy was electrifying.

With an option to choose from three streams of talks, attendees also had opportunities to join studio tours and hand-on workshops, engage in conversations with peers on pertinent topics at the roundtable discussions, participate in speed networking and much more.

The conference also had the option for live streaming for those who preferred to attend from their home or office. All attendees have access to presentation recordings until the end of January, after which time they will be made available to RGD Members. You can still register to get access to the recordings on Pheedloop.

Pre-conference programming featured Accessibility Workshops by Meggan Van Harten RGD and Davide Dorigo Provisional RGD from Design de Plume, guided tours to leading creative studios in Toronto and a ceremony celebrating of the winners of the 2023 Branding Awards.

Day 1 of the Conference began with keynotes by Chris Do and Forest Young and featured talks by speakers who included Emmi Salonen, Farai Madzima, Noel Cottrell, Rejane Dal Bello, Renato Fernandez, Dalit Shalom, Paul Trani, concluding with delegates’ favourite talk by Paula Scher. Day 1 closed with a Party at Bier Markt, where delegates and speakers connected over delicious hors d’oeuvres, drinks and conversations.

Day 2 was packed with as much inspiration as the first with keynotes by Tina Roth Eisenberg and Eleni Beveratou and talks by Lauren Scully & Brian Studak, Min Lew, Catalina Estrada, Zipeng Zhu, Jay Demetillo, Dorothéa Bozicolona-Volpe, Krys Blackwood, Hajj Flemings, ending the day with a Keynote by Stefan Sagmeister. The day also featured a panel discussion on collaborative design workflows and a Never Have I Ever session with Stefan Sagmeister, Min Lew, Forest Young, Eleni Beveratou and Tina Roth Eisenberg hosted by Julian Brown RGD.

Delegates and speakers were invited to share thoughts on social media using the hashtag #rgdDT.

Registration for DesignThinkers 2024 Vancouver taking place on May 28-29 will open in December. Stay tuned!

Thank you for our volunteer photographers Nadia Otake Provisional RGD & Eric Forest RGD for day 1 and day 2 of the conference

Thank you also to Industry Partners: Adobe, Acumen (signage), Flash, Mohawk, Forge Media + Design (website) Porter (travel) and Sid Lee (branding); to Gold Sponsors Cella, CtrlPrint, Deloitte, Domtar, Monotype, Moveable, Rightsleeve, The Futur, York University School of Continuing Studies and Silver & Bronze Sponsors AZURE, Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dalton Maag, Issues Magazine Shop, Mitchell Sandham, StickerYou, Swipe Design and WeirFoulds LLP.

Eleni Beveratou is a typeface designer and Creative Director at Daalton Maag. In advance of her keynote at DesignThinkers Toronto, we asked her a few questions about working in type design and how typography is evolving in our digital landscape.

Type is not only a fundamental aspect of graphic design, but also of written communication in general. What do you love most about working in this area of communication design?

It’s hard to choose, but my absolute favourite aspect is creating typefaces that span more than one writing system. Perhaps this is due to my Greek background, where I often see exceptional brand identities in the Latin writing system, particularly in English, which default to aesthetically poor or standard fonts when translated to other writing systems. When that happens, the impact of a brand weakens, which is disheartening. Therefore, when given the opportunity to create a typeface that transcends linguistic boundaries and resonates on a global scale, I feel that we contribute towards a more inclusive world.

Could you tell us about a typography trend or new application you’ve observed lately that has you particularly excited?

Type design currently finds itself at a crucial juncture, thanks to rapid advancements over the last five years or so. One development that particularly stands out to me is having typefaces that can seamlessly adapt to the light and dark modes in digital environments.

Nowadays, while users can choose to view the same content in light or dark mode, the way that typefaces interact with these backgrounds often gets overlooked. Black text on a white background will appear lighter than the same typeface at the same weight when displayed white on black. Our library typeface, Darkmode, tackles this very common UI issue, highlighting the critical role of type in the way that we consume content.

Digital platforms are changing the way we interact with content. How do you see the role of typography evolving in this landscape?

During this change, it’s crucial that we don’t repeat any mistakes of the past. The transition from print to digital environments led to many well-established typographic rules being overlooked, resulting in poor on-screen readability. This was largely because of a lack of research into reading habits and the craft of typography in print.

For those involved in the creation of new media and platforms, it’s imperative to gain an understanding of how users engage with written communication and the critical factors that influence readability. We must decide which reading habits of the past will be adapted, omitted, or replicated, and act accordingly with solutions like Darkmode that I mentioned above.

That said, your DesignThinkers talk is titled, “Typography in Digital Environments and Future Technologies.” Without giving too much away, what can attendees expect from your session?

Attendees can expect to hear me complain about how a bad typographic choice led to me missing a flight… All jokes aside, we will explore the world of typography and look at how it will manifest across future technologies, accessibility, and global reach. While we often focus solely on the visual aspects of typography, there is so much more to consider for effective, inclusive, and emotionally resonant communication for brands of all sizes.

What are you most looking forward to about coming to DesignThinkers in Toronto?

Toronto holds a special place in my heart as one of the first cities I visited in my current role. Even doing my research before arriving, I was struck by the city’s robust design community, showcased by an amazing comprehensive directory of all the design-related studios and individuals. I have yet to encounter such a thorough resource for any other city. Upon arriving in Toronto, the second thing that impressed me was its strong culture of knowledge-sharing among design peers. I can’t wait to hear more about good design, meet more passionate designers, and be part of such a strong community.

Catch Eleni’s keynote, “Typography in Digital Environments and Future Technologies,” on November 3 at 10:30 a.m. EST.

Unveiling the Enigma: A.I. in the Realm of Design Education — Design Educator Panel
Date & time: November 2, 12:45 p.m.–1:45 p.m.
Price: $15
Description: Brace yourself for a captivating discourse where we unravel the enigma—do A.I. tools play the role of a cunning villain, or are they valiant superheroes defining the dawn of a new era in design education? Will they dismantle creativity, or will they safeguard productivity and nurture the creative process? Join us to witness the clash of innovation and tradition, and behold the evolution of design’s education destiny.

RGD Book Club: Design Writing Unleashed
Date & time: November 3, 12:45 p.m.– 1:45 p.m.
Pricing: $15
Description: Discover design literature with the RGD Book Club: Design Writing Unleashed panel. Join us to learn more as three authors share about their writing process and creative journeys. Show up and ask anything – there are no secrets, simply storytelling. Confirmed speakers include Mike Schnaidt, Rejane Dal Bello and Stefan Sagmeister.

Register for panels when you sign up for the conference or in the Attendee Portal. If you’re having issues accessing the Attendee Portal, email [email protected].

Lettering Workshop with Christopher Rouleau 
Date & time: November 2, 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Price: $20
Description: Learn the fundamentals of sign painting and showcard lettering. During this special 45-minute workshop, you will learn the fundamentals of brush strokes, letterform construction, composition and have the chance to paint your own Honest Ed’s-style showcard sign in classic red, yellow and blue. All tools provided;no experience required.

LETS MAKE ART: Finding Your Voice with Xandr Sutjiadi RGD
Date & time: November 2, 1:45 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Price: $20
Description: Finding your voice often begins with understanding who you are and what makes you unique. In this workshop, led by Mel Sutjiadi (he/him), you’ll explore the intersection of your identities and use everyday objects to create an art form that expresses your story in a tangible and meaningful way. Think of it as a 3D moodboard of your identity that you can frame and display. We encourage you to bring your own unique photos or materials that resonate with your identity. Don’t have anything? No need to worry, we will also provide materials to work with. This workshop will be a safe and creative space for attendees of all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences to come together and celebrate our differences. Join us in finding your voice and gaining the confidence to express yourself authentically through art.

Mmmm … Typography, I Love You with Dominic Ayre RGD
Date & time: November 2, 3:45 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Price: $20
Description: What is experimental typography? This workshop will NOT answer that question. It will look at the fundamental joys of play and bring together curious participants. Join Dominic Ayre RGD and other typography-obsessed designers for this hands-on typographic laboratory jam. Get your hands dirty and produce kick-ass typographic compositions. Be ready to cut, stick, tape, draw, learn, laugh, sketch and, of course, experiment within a group setting that encourages chaotic beauty and stimulates new-found connections.

(SOLD OUT) LEGO Letterpress with Diana Varma RGD
Date & time: November 3, 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Price: $20
Description: What do you get when you cross an iconic kids’ toy with a 500 year-old printing technology? LEGO letterpress! In this workshop, you’ll experience printing infused with play; conceptualizing, assembling and printing your very own LEGO letterpress art. As you create, you’ll also learn about the history of letterpress printing and the ways in which it’s making a resurgence today. Join us for this hands-on workshop that will make your inner child (and Gutenberg!) proud.

Colour Thesaurus with Radim Malinic
Date & time: November 3, 1:45 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Price: $20
Description: Workshop to expand your creative vocabulary with hands-on sessions using physical and digital tools to help you break out from the norm and enrich your process and inspire your clients too.

How Prioritizing Accessibility in Branding Creates Stronger Brands and a Better World with Meggan Van Harten RGD
Date & time: November 3, 2:45 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Price: $10
Description: Discover how to integrate accessibility into your branding processes and unleash the power of inclusive design. Learn more about accessibility design thinking – it saves time, money and elevates people’s experiences. We’ll dive into accessible design principles, emphasizing diverse user needs and collaboration. Get practical strategies for crafting comprehensive brand guides, color contrast, typography and web accessibility. We’ll explore critical considerations like defining accessibility policies and philosophies and how those need to be reflected in all design deliverables moving forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize accessibility, strengthen your brand and positively impact people’s lives. Come away with actionable steps and a fresh perspective on shaping inclusive brands.

Adobe Illustrator: Pro Tips, Essential Techniques, and New Features with Paul Trani
Date & time: November 3, 3:45 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Price: $10
Description: Want to elevate your designs and give them a polish that only top designers seem to achieve? Join Paul to discover how to boost your Illustrator skills and punch up your style in new ways with entirely new looks. Paul will also introduce essential productivity tips to speed up your workflow so you can create stunning custom content faster than ever.

Register for workshops when you sign up for the conference or in the Attendee Portal. If you’re having issues accessing the Attendee Portal, email [email protected].

Roundtables are your chance to connect with other creatives in a small group setting. Bring your questions, offer advice and participate in conversations that will leave you feeling engaged and energized. You’re welcome to bring your breakfast/lunch and eat during the conversation.

Sign up for roundtables when you register for the conference or in the Attendee Portal. Email [email protected] if you need help accessing the Attendee Portal.

Pricing: $10 CAD

November 2, 8:15 to 9:15 a.m.

1/2. Passion projects: Making work for fun, because it’s fun to do
What really piques your curiosity? Come join our roundtable conversation where we’ll explore the significance of passion projects, discuss the habit of chasing curiosity and find ways to carve out time for creative fun, without getting stuck in a perpetual cycle of productivity.
Moderators: Rachael Seatvet RGD / Rebecca Hirsekorn

3/4. Challenges of working in a non-creative environment
Possible discussion topics include: how to balance maintaining your creative integrity as a graphic designer and meeting the rigid, non-creative demands of a corporate work environment; how to communicate the value of design thinking and creative solutions to colleagues or leadership who may not have a background in design; and how to inject fresh ideas into your work while staying within the constraints of strict brand guidelines and established design conventions.
Moderator: Deanna Tosto RGD/Barbara Dunn RGD

5/6. Speaking the same language: Building brilliant working partnerships in cross-disciplinary teams
Designers today work in increasingly diverse teams. Come discuss how to work effectively with other creative and creative-adjacent roles such as writers, subject-matter experts, media specialists and production. Share insights and strategies for articulating design decisions and resolving conflict.
Moderator: Michael Young RGD / Krys Blackwood

7/8. Champagne taste on a beer budget: Doing more with less
Let’s brainstorm alternative ways to provide creativity to our clients as well as educate them about our experience and the value of the work we provide.
Moderator: Teressa Kelly RGD / Andrew Terwissen RGD

9/10. Futuristic fantasy to practical reality: Leveraging AI tools in the design process
Have you experimented with AI to enhance your workflow? Have you used AI to gain insights about user behaviour? Have you used AI to boost your creativity? Join us for a discussion of designers’ experiences with AI and what impact we think it will have on the design industry.
Moderator: Brent Roth RGD / Denis Leclerc RGD

11/12. The business of design: Aligning design practices with business mindsets
It can often be challenging for designers to balance our creative visions with successful business outcomes. Whether it be for our clients, who would like to understand the ROI behind every project, or for ourselves, focusing on setting up our own businesses to be financially viable, there is a constant struggle between left and right brain. Let’s chat about how we can combine the best of both worlds.
Moderator: Stüssy Tschudin RGD RCA / Juan Exposito

13. Students-only: From blocks to breakthroughs: Navigating creative challenges and burnout in your student journey
In this ever-changing design world, where creative blocks and burnout can be all too familiar, how do you constantly create, learn and excel as a student? Join us to explore and discuss strategies to understand and overcome creative hurdles, establish effective design routines and navigate burnout gracefully. ($5)
AMA Guest: Phil Mondor RGD

November 2, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

1/2. Who isn’t at the table? Designing for diversity, equity & inclusion
Together, we will explore the vital themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion as it relates to design and creativity. Let’s discuss the ongoing work, practical steps, and visionary goals that bridge the gap to a more inclusive and representative future for design and creativity.
Moderator: Gavin Barrett / Neela Imani

3/4. Overcoming creative burnout
For designers and other creatives, the line between work and play, is often difficult to define. As a result, the threat of burnout is particularly complicated. What happens when the thing that brings you so much joy becomes a source of so much stress and anxiety? Join us for a discussion of tactics and strategies to avoid burnout and to recover when you actually hit that wall.
Moderator: Mo Bofill RGD / Mike Scott RGD

5/6. The business of design: Aligning design practices with business mindsets
Do clients need to understand design? Do they even have to care? What if all they care about is their business succeeding, and they know they hate blue? The intention of this roundtable is to discuss the age-old “designer vs. client” topic and the intersection of creativity and business. Let’s share how we approach the challenge of creating valuable design that makes a difference for the organizations we serve.
Moderator: Dave Dick RGD / Elana Rudick RGD

7/8. Building stronger design processes
Process is the key to profit, but a good process often takes years to nurture and is often tailored to an individual, especially in the design world! We will discuss topics like defining chinks in the armour, identifying problem areas, the importance of trying new things and using technology to help build more robust systems and easily replicable processes.
Moderator: James Martin / Jay Demetillo

9/10. Tell a stronger story: Strategies for effective communication and presentations
In this discussion, we will explore communication and presentation techniques designed to captivate your audience’s attention. You’ll discover how to refine your storytelling skills and effectively integrate data, anecdotes, and visuals to convey your message with greater impact. We’ll also share valuable insights and best practices to help you become a more persuasive and engaging communicator.
Moderator: Sarah Prouse RGD / Denis Leclerc RGD

11/12. Future-proofing your design career: Skills for the next decade
As technology advances and consumer preferences shift, adaptability emerges as a critical trait for designers. We delve into the importance of mastering not only the latest design software and tools but also fostering a deep understanding of UX and UI principles. We’ll touch on the rising significance of ethical and sustainable design practices, emphasizing the role designers play in addressing global challenges. Join us to gain insights into how to navigate the dynamic design industry and ensure your career remains future-proof.
Moderator: Ian Chalmers RGD / Rahul Bhogal RGD

13. Students-only: Embracing your design identity + how to build your creative confidence
Confidence is key to becoming a successful designer, but how do you garner confidence in a world of criticism and imposter syndrome? Join us in this roundtable to discuss simple tips and tricks to build creative confidence that will help you navigate your early career as a student and designer.
Guest: Raj Grainger RGD

November 3, 8:15 to 9:15 a.m.

1/2. Work smarter, not harder: Strategies for creating great work, efficiently
Designers do what they do best: design. By reducing administrative and mundane tasks, designers can focus on the project at hand. But how best to do this? Join this session to discuss techniques and processes to help.
Moderator: Natalie Coombs RGD / Emmi Salonen

3/4. Good design is for everybody: Sharing accessibility tools, resources and processes
Join this conversation about the role of accessibility in design and how it can benefit us all. We will share our knowledge and experiences with each other, whether you’re a seasoned accessibility advocate or new to the concept. We’ll focus on the latest tools and technologies available for designers and developers to create accessible products, along with tips and tricks we can use in our everyday practices.
Moderator: Victor Szeto RGD / Denis Leclerc RGD

5. Who isn’t at the table? Designing for diversity, equity & inclusion
Together, we will explore the vital themes of diversity, equity, and inclusion as it relates to design and creativity. Let’s discuss the ongoing work, practical steps, and visionary goals that bridge the gap to a more inclusive and representative future for design and creativity.
Moderator: Chris Ambedkar

6/7. Me, myself and I: Succeeding as a solo practitioner
There is no blueprint to working for yourself. Let’s discuss the successes we’ve accomplished and failures we’ve endured, so we can all learn from each other and grow our businesses.
Moderator: Greg Dubeau RGD / Austin Mateka RGD

8. Imposter syndrome who? Gaining confidence in your skills and abilities
Let’s talk about some of the situations we’ve faced and share strategies you can pull from your back pocket when those negative feelings bubble up in the future.
Moderator: Teressa Kelly RGD

9/10. “Don’t you just make things pretty?”: Turning clients into design advocates
Design has never been more in demand. But many organizations still see design as a nice to have. In this roundtable, we’ll discuss the following:
– What are the greatest hurdles when trying to turn clients into design advocates?
– What processes have you implemented to help educate clients on the value of design?
– Any best practices that you apply to daily interactions?
Moderator: Juliana Camargo RGD / Carolyn Harman RGD

11. The gentle art of feedback: How to give it and get it
Giving feedback can be difficult, especially when it’s not always glowing but receiving it can be equally so. It works both ways and to do it well requires shared respect and recognition of a common goal. I’m looking forward to hearing everyone’s stories of giving and getting feedback, both good and bad.
Moderator: Natalia Reis RGD

12. The comparison trap and how to manage the overwhelm
Who hasn’t fallen into the trap of comparing ourselves, and our work, to others and feeling pretty awful about it? Let’s discuss constructive ways to navigate this habit and build our confidence. We will learn tools and techniques for returning to what matters – our own unique creative path and career success.
Moderator: Alana Ruoso RGD

13. Students-only roundtable: Harnessing productive failure in design: Navigating criticism, rejection + failure as a student
Criticism, rejection and failure are part of every designer’s journey, but as students, how do you navigate these murky waters without losing your passion for design? Join us to learn how to interpret critique constructively, leverage rejection as a motivator, and transform failure into productivity and innovation.
Guest: Jennica Robinson Provisional RGD

November 3, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

1/2. The gentle art of feedback: How to give it and get it
There is no one size fits all methodology for giving or receiving feedback. It can improve ideas and strengthen relationships. It can also stir up emotions and halt progress. Even when delivered with positive intent, feedback requires trust between participants. What’s your perspective?
Moderator: Howard Poon RGD / Andrew McTavish RGD

3. Beautiful, creative + accessible: Strategies for accessible design
Join a discussion that will address questions that include:
– When, and how, do you consider accessibility when you’re launching a project?
– What is a piece of advice or information you learned that changed the way you think about accessibility?
– What is your favourite tool for streamlining accessibility in your projects or organization?
Moderator: Eleni Beveratou

4/5/6. Overcoming creative burnout
Is creative burnout real? Yes! Can it easily be prevented? Yes! In this discussion, we will talk about both the reactive and proactive measures we can put in place to navigate creative block. How good habits, routines and business processes can change the game for you and what to do if you find yourself creatively inactive.
Moderator: James Martin / Paul Wilcken RGD / Lawrence Ly

7/8. Improving your leadership skills
We will discuss how to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and effectively communicate to maximize your team’s potential. You’ll gain insights into strategies and tools for enhancing your leadership skills, as well as learn how to serve as the foundation and support of your team, fostering unity and facilitating growth.
Moderator: Sarah Prouse RGD / Chris Ambedkar

9. All hands on deck: The designer’s role in combatting climate change
“Saving our planet is now a communications challenge.” Starting from David Attenborough’s famous quote, we’ll explore the role of graphic and communication design in shaping a more sustainable future. How are we uniquely positioned to address climate change? Who is doing inspiring work? Let’s discuss.
Moderator: Laura Stein RGD

10/11/12. Futuristic fantasy to practical reality: Leveraging AI tools in the design process
Have you experimented with AI to enhance your workflow? Have you used AI to gain insights about user behaviour? Have you used AI to boost your creativity? Join us for a discussion of designers’ experiences with AI and what impact we think it will have on the design industry.
Moderator: Brent Roth RGD / John deWolf RGD / Denis Leclerc RGD

13. Challenges of being an in-house designer for government
Designing for government and government agencies bring its own unique challenges. In-house designers for governments of all levels (municipalities, provincial, state or federal) are invited to join us to discuss and exchange strategies and solutions to address these challenges.
Moderator: Ruth Farrugia RGD

14. Designers & Advertising
Join the Group Creative Director, Head of Design, at Cossette to discuss the role of designers within the advertising industry and the role of design in advertising generally. Bring your experiences, questions, challenges, strategies and theories to share and discuss.
Moderator: Jenna Anderson

15. Students-only roundtable: Group projects: Stepping stones to a successful design career
Group projects are here to stay—your journey toward a successful design career begins with how you navigate and collaborate in group projects today, as the teams only get larger at your workplace. Join us to discuss embracing group projects as valuable assets for your professional journey, understanding collaborative design work, and how to contribute and communicate effectively.
Guest: Amelia Nash Provisional RGD

There’s no shortage of things to see and do at DesignThinkers Toronto. We asked Olivia Montagnese Provisional RGD, who has attended DesignThinkers nine times, what a typical “day in the life” at the conference looks like for her.

The doors are open. What are you up to?

On the first day of DesignThinkers, I like to arrive at the venue shortly after registration opens so that I’m able to thoroughly browse the supplier showcase booths and the giveaway table before it gets too busy. My friends try to get there around the same time as me so that we’re able to catch up, talk about what sessions we are excited to see, get breakfast and find good seats. Since there is so much excitement on the first day, arriving early and already having my schedule planned out helps me to feel more calm and ready for the busy day.

And lunch?

During lunchtime, my friends and I usually spend some time catching-up with other colleagues from the industry, and then we usually get lunch in together in the area.

You’ve watched a lot of DesignThinkers presentations over nine years! Any favourites?

There have been so many informative and memorable presentations, but some of my favourites that have resonated with me have been from Anton and Irene, Blake Howard, Emily Oberman, Aaron Draplin, Gemma O’Brien, Jessica Hische, Wade Jeffree and Leta Sobierajski, Vèronica Fuerte and Adam J. Kurtz.

I especially admire Timothy Goodman and Meg Lewis’s work, so it was such a special opportunity to be able to meet and chat with them.

The conference has more than just presentations, though. What do you do during your breaks and downtime?

During breaks, I usually chat with my friends, and visit the showcase booths, specifically spending a lot of time at the Swipe pop-up to hoard more design books 🤓

The delegate party is always a blast. How do you feel about it?

The delegate party is always such a fun way to end to the first day of the conference. Due to the pandemic, I’ve really missed it as the energy was amazing, and it gave me more time to catch-up with those in the industry that I don’t see often.

Olivia Montagnese (she/her) is a designer and artist based in Toronto. She’s interested in the arts and culture scene and hopes to shift perspectives and create unique and meaningful experiences through her work. She graduated from Humber College’s Graphic Design program in 2018, and currently works as a Designer at q30 design. When not designing, she can be found exploring new cafes and bookstores, taking film photos, curating playlists, and as of recently, taking pottery classes.

Fast Company Creative Director Mike Schnaidt is an award-winning designer whose resume includes leading design positions at Men’s Health, Popular Science, Esquire and more. In advance of his presentation at DesignThinkers Toronto, we asked him a few questions about his career in editorial design, creating comprehensive brand ecosystems and what it means to be a strong creative leader.

You’ve worked for a number of prestigious publications during your career. What initially drew you to editorial design? What keeps you there?

As a kid, I loved comic books. X-Men. Batman. Deadpool. When I was a design student, magazines appealed to me because the art of sequential storytelling felt similar to the comics that initially stoked my creativity. Today, the role of an editorial creative director has evolved from when I first started, and that’s what keeps me excited. Magazine pages are only one part of a larger design universe that includes events, awards, podcasts, videos and so much more. My editorial experience built a necessary foundation to extend into branding.

That said, your talk is titled “I Never Had a Plan.” Without giving too much away, what can attendees expect from your session?

Speaking of being a kid, I’m a forever student. I love learning. Throughout my career in publishing, I’ve chased jobs based on what I was curious about: pop culture, fashion, science, health and business. I’ve worked alongside some of the best journalists, and learned a lot in the process. And so, I wanted to try my hand at a book. It’s tough! And it’s fun! So if you want to see someone get excited on stage about writing a book, come watch my session. And even if you don’t want to write a book, you’ll grab some takeaways for building a fulfilling creative life.

Fast Company has a massive brand ecosystem, existing across a number of mediums and platforms. Is there a project or campaign that you’ve worked on that you’re particularly proud of? What is it and why?

Our biggest event is the Innovation Festival, and I love seeing it come to life. It brings together everything I enjoy: branding, typography, animation and environmental design. There’s something so cool about seeing your design system come to life in an event space — especially after staring at it on your tiny laptop screen for months leading up to the event. I can’t wait to experience the event this September.

You’ve worked as a creative director for over five years. What do you think makes a great leader in design?

The ability to admit when you’re wrong. Design is a series of decisions, and I don’t always make the right ones. But I will say, “Hey, my bad. I led you down the wrong path. Let’s try it your way?” Nine out of ten times, the work drastically improves when I say something like that. Now that’s a good decision.

What are you most looking forward to about coming to DesignThinkers in Toronto?

There are so many talented speakers that I’m excited to meet. But I’m equally excited to chat with audience members and learn about their creative journeys. Plus: Canada!

Watch Mike’s talk, “I Never Had a Plan,” on November 3 at 11:30 a.m. EST.

The RGD invites Canadian makers, artists and artisans selling design-forward products to apply to participate in a “Design Marketplace” running as a part of the DesignThinkers Conference on November 2-3.

Canada’s largest graphic design conference, DesignThinkers provides an opportunity for makers to showcase their products and expand their customer base by connecting with creatives from across the country. The Marketplace will be open to our 2000+ attendees; it will run from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. both days.

Each vendor will receive an 8-feet wide x 6-feet deep space with a table, chair, wifi access and a transferable exhibitor’s badge (additional badges can be purchased). Vendors have the opportunity to attend conference sessions and enjoy a continental breakfast and afternoon coffee break both days. Vendors will also receive recognition through RGD’s social media and other communication channels, reaching an audience of over 70,000.

The fees for a single booth (1 table) is $500 (RGD Members: $425) and for a double booth (2 tables) is $900 (RGD Members: $800). Prices are in Canadian dollars.

If you’re interested in hosting a booth in the Marketplace, complete this form by September 5. Selected vendors will be notified the week of September 11.

You can view images of our “Supplier Showcase” (tradeshow component) from a previous DesignThinkers here. If you have questions or additional requests, please email [email protected]