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Victoria Barnett
Accessible Digital Designer, #DesignJustice, Problem-solver, Collaborator, Co-creator
Professional Background
Victoria Barnett is an accomplished digital graphic designer and dedicated trainer with a wealth of experience in the areas of design, web development, and community engagement. With her unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, Victoria has passionately dedicated her career to empowering non-profit organizations and community projects, especially those focused on social and environmental justice. Leveraging her skills in graphic design, branding, and marketing, she has helped countless organizations effectively communicate their missions through visually compelling flyers, posters, websites, and social media content.
Throughout her diverse career, which spans various roles in graphic design and project coordination, Victoria has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and inclusivity. She has served in numerous capacities, including as a Provincial Coordinator at the Ontario Public Interest Research Group, where she was responsible for overseeing initiatives that promote social equity and public interest research. Additionally, Victoria has contributed to the Design Justice Network, where she served as both a Membership and Operations Specialist, Node and Working Group Manager, and International Network Coordinator. Her multifaceted career underscores her dedication to empowering others through the best practices in design and technology.
Education and Achievements
Victoria holds a wealth of educational credentials that equip her with the tools necessary for success in today’s digital landscape. She studied at OCAD University, where she earned a Certificate in Digital Media Skills with a focus on Adobe Illustrator through adult education courses, honing her technical skills in digital design. She further advanced her qualifications by completing a Certificate in Web Design, Development, and Maintenance at Humber College. Her academic journey culminated in an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in International Development Studies from York University, where she cultivated a strong understanding of social issues that inform her design work.
Victoria's dedication to design education extends beyond her professional roles; she is passionate about teaching others how to navigate design software and web tools successfully. She particularly emphasizes accessible graphic design to ensure that everyone can engage with and contribute to the visual narratives being told in today's society.
Notable Accomplishments
Victoria Barnett's impressive portfolio of work includes not only freelance projects through her business, Victoria Barnett Digital Graphic Design, but also significant contributions to the educational and nonprofit sectors. As a Senior Graphic Designer for the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF/FEESO), she played a crucial role in creating educational materials that not only inform but inspire advocacy for teachers' and students' rights. Furthermore, her past projects with the Ontario EcoSchools initiative as a Junior Web Developer reflect her commitment to environmental education and sustainable practices.
Victoria's collaborative spirit and extensive experience in technology support roles, such as her position with the Black Creek Community Farm and as Zoom Technology Support during the ACD43 Conference, further showcase her versatility in adapting to different environments and needs. Throughout her many roles, from Programming & Volunteer Coordinator at Ontario Public Interest Research School to her work as a Media Productions Assistant at York University, she has always prioritized the principles of social justice and equity in her design approach.
Skills and Expertise
Victoria Barnett possesses an impressive array of skills and expertise that make her a sought-after professional in graphic design and web development. Her specialties include:
- Graphic and Digital Design: Victoria’s creative flair shines through her graphic design work, where she seamlessly combines aesthetics with functional design.
- WordPress Development and Maintenance: With an adept understanding of WordPress, she helps organizations establish a robust online presence that is both functional and visually appealing.
- Print Design and Layout: Victoria’s experience in print design ensures that all materials produced stand out in terms of quality and impact.
- Pre-Press: Understanding the intricacies of pre-press processes allows her to deliver polished final products that meet client specifications and deadlines.
- Adobe Creative Suite: Proficient in tools like Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Dreamweaver, Victoria has the technical skills to bring any creative vision to life.
Community Engagement
Beyond her professional achievements, Victoria is deeply committed to community engagement and social activism. Her past roles in various nonprofit organizations reflect her dedication to social and environmental justice. Notably, her involvement with organizations like the Design Justice Network demonstrates her passion for addressing systemic issues in design and advocating for equitable practices in media and communication.
Victoria actively seeks to teach and empower others to develop their design skills, making her workshops accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Her portfolio website, www.victoriabarnett.com, showcases her extensive range of projects and serves as a valuable resource for potential clients and collaborators.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Victoria Barnett represents the epitome of a modern-day graphic designer and trainer, combining her artistic talents with a passion for education and advocacy. Whether working on a logo for a grassroots movement or teaching design principles to aspiring creators, she continues to make significant contributions within the community. With an extensive background in both practical design and strategic communications, Victoria is poised to inspire and enact change in the world of digital design. Her continuous pursuit of knowledge and commitment to fostering inclusivity in design ensures that her impact will be felt for years to come.
