Before you spend months learning, it helps to know what the job really looks like. In Ghana, graphic designers work in several different places, and each one asks for slightly different strengths.
Where designers work
- Print shops and branding companies. Many towns have shops that print flyers, banners, business cards, calendars, souvenirs and branded items such as mugs and T shirts. Designers here create artwork quickly for walk in customers and prepare files the printing machines can use. Speed and print knowledge matter most.
- Advertising and creative agencies. Mostly in Accra, agencies design campaigns for bigger brands. Work includes social media posts, billboards, adverts and sometimes simple animation. Agencies expect strong ideas, a good portfolio and the ability to follow a brief.
- In house teams. Companies such as real estate firms, car dealers, banks, schools and media companies hire their own designers to make marketing materials. You follow the company's brand guidelines and work closely with the marketing team.
- NGOs, churches and schools. These organisations need reports, posters, certificates, programmes, handbooks and social media graphics. Some hire designers, and many hire freelancers for each project.
- Freelance. Many designers work for themselves, serving shops, events, churches and small businesses, and sometimes clients abroad through remote work.