1. Tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to join the Bookmarks Learner Jury.
I’m Aqeelah, a UI designer with a deep love for anything and everything tech, from the newest AI developments to seamless digital products. I’m obsessed with the magic that happens when design, tech, and people truly connect. Seeing some of the greatest work firsthand is truly a privilege.
The Bookmarks have always been prestigious. To see that they value the voice of the youth is extremely important, and it’s really the most perfect opportunity to be part of something great! The motivation of my manager and creative director really encouraged me to see this value and dive into it!
2. You will be part of the Builder’s Panel. What does this constitute?
The Builders Panel at the Bookmark Awards is where the technical brilliance behind digital experiences takes centre stage. Tasked with judging categories like Websites, Mobile Applications, and Customer Experience Design, this panel focuses less on pure creativity or performance, and more on the craft, functionality, and user interface that power standout platforms.
It’s about how digital products are built and how seamlessly they support broader marketing strategies. As part of this year’s panel, I will join top design and tech experts from leading agencies and digital brands across South Africa, gaining rare insight into what excellence looks like behind the screen.
3. What does your current role in the digital marketing or advertising space entail?
Right now, I’m hands-on with UI/UX design, turning wireframes into digital experiences that (hopefully) don’t make people scream internally. I work closely with devs and strategists to make sure everything looks good and makes sense.
4. As we celebrate Youth Month, how do you see the role of young people shaping the future of this industry?
Honestly, we are the future. We’re not afraid to challenge old-school norms, question brief objectives, or pitch something completely wild. There is magic in diversity, culture, and inclusion brought by the youth, so make sure the tables include the youth now and always.
5. What does being part of the Bookmarks Learner Jury mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, this is a HUGE moment, to be sitting in a room with industry giants I have looked up to for so long is truly incredible! Professionally – Professionally, it’s like sitting front row at a masterclass in creativity, innovation, and execution. Overall, it’s a validation that the voices of South African youth are valued, even as a learner.
6. As a woman in the digital marketing and advertising field, what has your journey been like?
It’s been a thrilling and mildly exhausting (but worthy) journey. There’s been growth, impostor syndrome, and so many lessons. But the beauty is, women in this field are showing up, showing out, and lifting each other as we climb.
7. Have any specific moments or projects in your career pushed you out of your comfort zone? What did you learn from them?
Oh absolutely. I think every project handed me a challenge in some aspect, but a key moment was when my manager pushed me to present in front of clients for the first time. It built character, and although it was nerve-wrecking, it taught me every lesson about standing up, going for it, and knowing that you have more to gain than to lose.
8. What would you say to young women looking to enter the digital space today?
Please do. Like, run in. This space needs your creativity, your voice, your story, and your ideas. Don’t wait until you feel “ready”; none of us really is. Just start. Break stuff. Ask questions. And take up space.
9. How has mentorship (whether giving or receiving) shaped your path?
Mentorship is like cheat codes for growth. I’ve been lucky to have a support system who have always nudged me toward greatness. From seniors to managers and then directors, there has been an incredible amount of support, willingness, and teach and priceless advice which will carry me, and hopefully others, through this industry for decades.
10. What’s one myth about the industry that you think needs to be broken, especially for youth or women just starting out?
That you need to “toughen up” to make it. No, you can be kind, collaborative, even a little awkward, and still absolutely thrive. Creativity isn’t born in stress and ego; it grows in safe, open spaces. Let’s stop glorifying burnout and start valuing balance.
11. How do you define leadership in the context of a fast-changing, digital-first world?
Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about trust, curiosity, and adaptability. It’s being the person who says, “Let’s figure this out together” instead of “Do it my way.” It’s about creating a space for voices to be heard and ideas to emerge.
12. What excites you about the future, for yourself, and the next generation of marketers and advertisers?
I’m so pumped about the fusion of tech and creativity, AI tools and products beyond that, immersive experiences, inclusive design, and the emerging technology of our near future. I’m excited to keep evolving, experimenting, and maybe designing for products that haven’t even been invented yet. For the next gen? I can’t wait to see what they’ll dream up. Spoiler: it’s going to be weirder and wilder, so buckle up!
About: Aqeelah Kader is a UI Designer at Ogilvy, currently working in the Ogilvy One team and driven by passion, creativity, and all things digital! Being chosen as a learner juror for the 2025 Bookmarks is a major stepping stone in learning how to shape the future for the youth in this industry.
Instagram handle: @aqeelahdotcom
