"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."
-Pablo Picasso
As far back as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to creativity. From sketching as a child to designing as an adult, my journey has always been about creating something meaningful. But it wasn’t until my thirties that I truly found my footing. I believe the path we take—no matter how unconventional—is the right one for us. It’s the journey itself that shapes us into who we’re meant to become.
Finding my gift
Growing up, art and design were my refuge—a way to express myself and connect with the world. I’d spend hours sketching, painting, and experimenting with ideas. In high school, I loved all things creative, but fear and life got in the way. Out of necessity, I landed a job in hairdressing. It wasn’t that I couldn’t have studied design—I just never felt confident enough to go for it.
Motherhood gave me moments to keep painting on the side, and for a while, it actually went okay. But trying to turn something I loved into an income took the joy out of it, and I quickly realized it wasn’t sustainable for me.
A gap year working in retail, some small side businesses, and a final attempt at a hairdressing career later… bam—I hit a wall of serious anxiety. That’s when a little encouragement from good friends gave me the push I needed. In 2020, I finally backed myself, self-training as a graphic and web designer—and I haven’t looked back since.
With the wonderful Debbie during my Guest Artist slot at the Waimumu Art Exhibition (2018). My specialty was illustrative pen and watercolour works.
Turning My Gift Into a Purpose
Design started as a transactional service for me—almost like an apprenticeship. I devoured every design book I could get my hands on, taught myself the software, and took on discounted client projects to build my experience and portfolio. But very quickly, I realized why I loved it so much: impact.
Design wasn’t just about making things look good; it was about psychology, connection, and story. As I learned more about what makes design truly impactful—for both businesses and the people behind them—my entire perspective shifted. It was no longer just a service. It became about using perceptive creativity to bring meaning to others' work, tell their stories, and help them connect with the people who needed them most.
For me, design isn’t just about aesthetics anymore; it’s about storytelling and connection. I’ve come to believe that thoughtful design has the power to transform not just brands, but the confidence of the people behind them.
Building a Legacy of Empowerment
Every project I take on now feels like a piece of a larger puzzle. I’m not just helping to build brands—I’m contributing to a legacy of significance and purpose. I believe that when we share our gifts with others, we create ripples of impact that extend far beyond ourselves.
What’s Your Gift?
As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded that each of us has something unique to offer the world. Maybe it’s your creativity, your ability to connect with others, or your unwavering drive to make a difference. Whatever it is, the world needs it. And I’m here to help you share it in a way that feels both authentic and impactful.
So, let’s build something beautiful together—not just a brand, but a legacy.
You weren’t put here to carry the pressure of changing the world—just to leave your little slice of it better than you found it.
Much love,
Court
