From Pencils to Pixels: How I Built a Global Creative Career as a Nigerian Self-Taught Designer

By Adanne Udejiofor Chukwudi (Ardarrh Inspiring)

In a world where credentials often outshine creativity, I found my voice not in certificates, but in sketches, colours, and stories. I am a Nigerian creative who transitioned from drawing in school notebooks to designing for clients across continents without waiting for perfect conditions.

Growing up, all I had was passion. No access to expensive gadgets, no mentorship, and no fancy degree from abroad just raw drive. I sketched everything: from people’s emotions to stories that lived in my head. I knew I had something, but I didn’t know how to show it.

When I finally got access to the internet and basic tools, I taught myself everything design software, branding, digital storytelling, content writing, web design. I watched YouTube tutorials late into the night, worked unpaid gigs to build my portfolio, and kept evolving. I began taking jobs on Fiverr, then Upwork, and today, I help businesses define their brand voice with digital assets and stories that connect.

But this journey wasn’t just about me. I became a volunteer at Cardiff Library in the UK, showing and explaining to people who walk in others in how to use the books in the library. I became a student ambassador and navigator, guiding new students in and responding to their concerns.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

– Start with what you have. You don’t need expensive tools to start telling your story.

– Learn continuously. The internet has more knowledge than most universities.

– Document your work. Every sketch, design, blog post, or brand idea you build counts.

– Serve others. Volunteering taught me more than any formal class.

To every young African creative reading this: your ideas are valid. Your stories matter. And your journey no matter how raw can inspire change.