In 2015, when we ushered in the inaugural group of Helen Lansdowne Resor (HLR) Scholarship recipients, MEA winner Rawan Obaid said, “My dream is to invest in society and to develop as a creative talent in design. I feel that this Scholarship is the first step to achieving my ambitions. It has also made me realize that I have the ability to over achieve and perform to the highest of standards.”
This year, as we gear up to welcome another group of winners, we caught up with Rawan to get a take on what the Scholarship means to her one year later.
It all comes down to that moment when I got rewarded; the moment when I congratulated not only myself, but also whomever supported me and was part of my success.
That moment worked like a button that clicked emotions, confidence and trust in me. It changed my perspective toward the effort I need to give while working in order to achieve creative pieces.
It is a challenge that I need to ride to prove to myself that I deserve to be honored. It is a responsibility that I have and that I believe needs to be reflected on my work.
From that moment, I have completed so many projects that I am proud of. I learned so many new design skills, such as 2D animation, 3D animation and motion graphics.
In each project, I tried to explore new skills and techniques in order to increase my knowledge in my field. Adding to that, I studied experimental film, which I think is currently my focal point.
Winning this award was the foundation to achieve these creative talents, it made me realize that I have the opportunity to exceed the required and perform to the highest standards. It is a moment that I could recall every day to motivate myself, believe in myself, and remind myself that I am capable enough to stand out and achieve my willingness.
Named after Helen Lansdowne Resor, the industry’s and J. Walter Thompson’s first female copywriter, the HLR Scholarship aims to support young women of diverse backgrounds from around the world who aspire to join the creative ranks.