We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Awele Emili a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Awele, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
As a designer, artist, and animator, I get my resilience from the creative process itself. Each project teaches me something new, whether it’s about overcoming technical challenges or pushing through creative blocks. The desire to tell stories, evoke emotions, and bring ideas to life drives me forward. Every piece I create is a reflection of my growth, and even setbacks or failures help refine my vision.
When things get tough, I draw strength from the passion I have for my craft and the satisfaction of seeing a project come together, knowing that each hurdle makes the final result more meaningful.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The first quality on my list is Adaptability, The creative field, especially animation and design, is always evolving. New technologies, trends, and techniques constantly emerge, and staying flexible has been essential. Adapting to new tools and workflows not only keeps my work relevant but also opens up new creative possibilities. My advice for those starting is to embrace change. Experiment with different styles and software, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Learning never stops, and your ability to grow in the field is key to long-term success.
Curiosity comes in second because it’s fueled by both my artistic and scientific background, it has been a driving force. It pushes me to explore new ideas, seek inspiration in unexpected places, and merge disciplines in innovative ways. For newcomers, cultivating a mindset of curiosity means always asking questions—about your work, the world around you, and the way things function. Don’t just focus on mastering tools; take time to understand the “why” behind your creations. Stay curious about everything, and let that curiosity guide your creative process.
Also, the ability to communicate complex ideas simply and effectively is vital. Translating intricate concepts into designs that resonate with people has been one of my most valuable skills. For those starting their journey, I’d recommend practising this skill deliberately. Study how others simplify complex ideas—whether it’s through infographics, animation, or minimalist design. Focus on clarity in your work and always ask yourself how you can make your message more accessible to your audience.
To develop these qualities, I encourage early creatives to stay open to learning, seek out mentorship, and be patient with their growth. Each project you take on, whether big or small, will contribute to your skill set and understanding of the craft. Stay curious, keep adapting, and focus on the message behind your art.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was nurture my curiosity and creativity from an early age. They encouraged me to explore my interests freely and be expressive whether it was through art, science, or any other subject that caught my attention. Even though tried to steer me toward the scientific medical path, they never stopped me from creating art and design all I had to do was make sure I got good grades in school, which I did, always.
Their belief in my potential, regardless of whether my pursuits were traditional or unconventional, gave me the confidence to take risks and follow my instincts. They also instilled a strong work ethic and a mindset of perseverance and discipline, reminding me that setbacks are part of the journey and that resilience is key to growth.
That foundation of support allowed me to blend my scientific background with my artistic career, and it’s something I carry with me in every project I take on. It’s a reminder that the best way to grow is to stay curious, work hard, and trust your creative vision.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aweleemili.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aweleemili/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aweleemili/
- Twitter: https://x.com/aweleemili
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/aweleemili
