Each year, we honour graduating CSD CEP student designers worldwide through both in-person and online award ceremonies.

The CSD CEP Student Prize is awarded yearly to up to three design students from each CSD Accredited course, who have demonstrated great work throughout their course, recognising their talents and constant hard work.

As part of our festivities, we are excited to spotlight Methaq Alsadiq, Assoc.CSD, a CSD CEP Student Prize winner from Bahrain Polytechnic. Join us in discovering her passion for the role of language in design and communication.

Tell us a little about your work:

I am interested in publication, branding, and type design. My passion stems from life itself and the stories that shaped me into who I am. I believe in the power of storytelling and strive to bring concepts to life through compelling visualisations using different materials. Through my journey in design and research, I delved into the study of language and identity, so I concluded that my main mission is to create an impact that strengthens my community’s cultural identity through language in design.

I have designed numerous projects that convey this mission, and one of the best examples is Baseera Magazine. “Baseera” is an Arabic word meaning “insight,” symbolising a gateway to the treasures of Arabic art. The magazine aims to increase appreciation and awareness of Arabic culture and design locally and internationally. I aimed to showcase the captivating beauty of Arabic art and design. Therefore, the magazine was created to attract young Arabs encouraging them to develop a deeper appreciation for Arabic designs through visual references.

Through this project, I discovered my passion for publication, which was evident in my creative implementations of interactive designs in the magazine and the research skills that unveiled many hidden aspects of the Arab design world. My ability to blend design principles with modern interactive techniques made Baseera Magazine a unique and compelling publication.

Another significant project, which furthers my mission, is Takween Cultural Center. “Takween” is also an Arabic phrase which means “the formation”. It was inspired by the creation of the universe and the theory of expansion after the Big Bang. Takween is a Bahraini centre dedicated to empowering the Arabic language and strengthening cultural identity through developing and reshaping it. It enriches the language by offering various services, conducting awareness campaigns, and publishing a monthly magazine that presents enriching Arabic topics to inspire and support Arabic creators.

The centre offers four services on its website: a library, courses to enhance linguistic skills, and a collection of Bahraini stories with a modern dictionary to keep pace with modern developments and preserve cultural heritage. Lastly, the fourth section focuses on promoting Arab arts and culture through exhibitions and publishing a monthly magazine. The current edition delves into the concept of identity across four stages of formation.

The project’s centrepiece was an awareness campaign titled “Beyond the Language,” which aimed to reveal the hidden identity influenced by language and its impact on the entity of individuals and society as a whole. The campaign showcases the issue of cultural fusion in human beings through a wire sculpture and a brochure. It symbolises how “if a person surrenders and becomes detached from their language, they become a fragile being without spirit. like a chaff scattered by the winds”. This project was displayed at the Bahrain Polytechnic Grads Project Expo event, where it received a lot of recognition. I am proud that I succeeded in sharing the message of the centre to the specified target audience.

What inspired you to become a designer?

That I can positively influence society and communicate meaningful messages through design. This focus has been a significant part of my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for it. Initially, I thought only certain professions could drive societal change during crises. However, I’ve come to realise that the field I am in now is exactly the key to changing people’s perceptions and protecting them from any ideological influences.

I’ve come to see that design goes beyond creating visually appealing products or messages. It’s about crafting narratives that resonate and inspire action. Whether through publications, branding, or visual storytelling, design plays a crucial role in influencing how people perceive and interact with the world.

What does the award of the CEP Student Prize mean to you?

Being awarded the CEP Student Prize is incredibly meaningful to me as it marks a significant achievement in my career. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve embraced challenges and opportunities for growth that have shaped my approach as a designer and problem solver. This award not only validates my hard work and dedication but also highlights my potential to contribute meaningfully within the design industry. It boosts my confidence in my abilities and emphasises the impact of pursuing what I love, both on my academic achievements and in gaining recognition from esteemed organisations like the CSD.

What’s next for you?

My next focus is conducting deeper research into the role of dialects and language in fostering creativity and cultural expression. I am also looking forward to the potential adoption of the Takween concept by an institution in Bahrain. I believe this initiative could greatly enhance its capacity to share valuable information and strengthen cultural identity in Bahrain and beyond. Additionally, I aim to refine my skills in animation and calligraphy, alongside my branding and publication skills, and to apply these diverse capabilities in achieving my mission and improving my future projects.

Where can we find you?

You can find me via the CSD Find-a-Designer here, alongside Behance and Instagram. View my portfolio here.

Are you a Visual Design student?

Individuals who have recently graduated, are in the early phases of their Visual Design career or have the required equivalent competencies can apply to join CSD as Associate members. Learn more about CSD Associate membership here.