dickyjr

tl;dr A short overview of who I am and what I’m doing

Who

I’m a designer and artist based in Nairobi, Kenya. Currently, I spend my time at ARK leading design strategy for the organisation. I’m also a Skillshare teacher and previously co-founded AfricanStockPhoto.com (2017-2020).

Why

I love design because it allows me to use creativity and strategic thinking to solve real world problems, drive change, and make a positive impact. Whether painting, designing a new product, or a user experience, I focus on creating work that is both useful and delightful.

Huh?

I've been around and experimenting with crypto since 2018. I’d describe myself as a crypto-optimist: I see its potential but acknowledge its flaws and shortcomings.

key skills My top strengths & focus areas

Leadership

10+ years experience guiding multi-disciplinary teams that get results, from product designers and content strategists to researchers and designers.

Design Strategy

I thrive on curiosity—asking the right questions and exploring innovative solutions. I enjoy turning insights into purposeful, strategic solutions that advance both user needs and business goals.

Design Execution

My background in graphic design helps me translate complex ideas into tangible, human-centered products and services. I focus on clarity, impact, and delightful user experiences.

career A short timeline of my professional journey

Design Strategy Director

ARK Africa [Aug 2022 - Present]

Simply put, I am in charge of understanding and explaining. Utilising design thinking methodologies and business analysis to solve complex problems and deliver effective design solutions aligned with clients’ needs.

Co-led the rebrand of GBHL to Bulkstream
Co-led the overall strategy for Tuskers brand home
Led development of the Manyatta brand strategy

Senior Art Director

ARK Africa [2019 - 2022]

Led ARK’s creative implementation across projects and partners, shaping and managing ARK’s creative outlook as the lead for a team of designers and storytellers.

Led the Mawingu rebrand end to end

Co-Founder

AfricanStockPhoto.com [2017 - 2020]

Co-founded AfricanStockPhoto, connected African photographers to buyers worldwide. By August 2020, we had ~300 contributors and over 8,000 unique images.