A new scholarship for BIPOC design students

We are happy to launch with the Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC) and six other Manitoba agencies a new scholarship for BIPOC design students. The scholarship is called the Manitoba Studio Fund. The scholarship will offer $2,000 to two BIPOC graphic design students — one from the University of Manitoba and one from Red River College — every year for the next five years. Scholarship recipients will also receive paid internships at one of the design studios.

Andrew Boardman, from Manoverboard, reached out to us and asked us to join this initiative with the GDC. 

“As someone who works in this industry, I see first hand the significant barriers faced by Indigenous People and People of Colour, as it pertains to access to education and opportunities,” said Lee Waltham, Managing Partner & Marketing Director. “When you create an opportunity, you open the door for infinite possibilities, and with the Manitoba Studio Fund, we aspire to do just that right here in our own community.”

We happily joined and were appreciative for the opportunity to contribute. Our agency provided both financial and service-based support alongside the GDC, Manoverboard, Honest Agency, Guppy Design, Relish New Brand Experience, ‘Segun Olude and Sly Bird Creative.

It’s on us to take tangible action to support a diverse and inclusive world and this scholarship is a way for us to start moving toward a more equitable design sector in our province.

Scholarship details:

The Manitoba Studio Fund was created by and for designers, to assist students from traditionally racialized and disenfranchised communities in the province. The scholarship will offer $2,000 to two BIPOC graphic design students — one from the University of Manitoba and one from Red River College — every year for the next five years. Scholarship recipients will also receive paid internships at one of the design studios.

The fund’s objective is to champion designers who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour in Manitoba and to ensure that these designers have multiple seats at the table. For full details and to apply, visit here.

The design:

Our agency developed the brand identity system. The Manitoba Studio Design Fund logomark forces our eye to recognize the forms by highlighting the spaces between them. What we don’t see lends us to better learn the unique qualities in everyone who applies.

To apply:

If you’re interested in applying, head over to the GDC’s website here for the full details.
Applications close May 1, 2021.