Duration: Four years.

Location: Dallas, Texas.

Education: Bachelor of science in digital media.

Career path: I originally studied biomedical engineering, but after two years, I switched my major to digital media since I loved how diverse it is. I wanted to learn as much as I could.

Cultural influences: I love storytelling and evoking emotion through my work; I want people to feel something. I come from Lagos, Nigeria, where we have many traditions that have a deeper meaning than what most people would think. This helps me make sure that whatever I create tries to convey something.

Favorite projects: My A Poster A Day project because it has pushed me to discipline myself. I have been creating a poster a day for almost a year. It’s a great feeling. I plan to finish these posters soon and turn them into a book or exhibition. I’m also proud of my Mother’s Day project. It’s special to me because I wanted to give back to all the moms out there. I turned what kids said about their moms into visual prints that they could show and give to their mothers.

Work environment: I usually work in an isolated place with a few people and a window nearby. I love music, so I’m always wearing headphones to listen. I also love the urban environment—the graffiti, music, photographers and coffee shops. I love any environment that shows character and creativity.

Approach: I create work from my heart. When I’m inspired, I ask myself, “How can I interpret this visually to fit the meaning I’m trying to convey?” I’ve learned from others and also pushed the boundaries of techniques in order to discover new possibilities. I love getting lost in Photoshop and Illustrator. Being African American, I feel that I have a special way of conveying my reality to people who look like me, and people who don’t. There’s something special about creating from my experiences and beliefs; it feels more authentic to me.

Aspirations: I would love to be a creative director working with all kinds of brands. I also want to start my own creative agency. I plan on launching Coker U—short for Coker University—where I can teach people tips and tricks of photography and design.

Philosophy: Your journey is your journey. Embrace it. The good, the bad and the ugly. What’s for you is for you. Comparison kills. Always be willing to learn and grow. Never be complacent.

Fun fact: After three years of teaching high school, I started participating in the Adobe Creative Residency in 2018. Adobe financially supports me to create and to focus on my craft. It’s been a lot of hard work, but I have so much time to grow! Adobe is also supporting my aspirations of becoming a creative director.