Kansi Komlan Kankpe
Your only limit is U !!!
My journey started in 2012, in Lomé, Togo when I made a difficult choice that was hard to explain to my family: I decided to quit my mathematics degree at the University of Lomé to follow my passion for design. I had started learning on my own through online tutorials. With perseverance and tenacity, I landed my first job in 2013 at a communication agency in Lomé. From 2013 to 2018, I worked on various projects, ranging from magazine design, 3D animations for Togo’s national television to visual communication projects in Cotonou, Benin, a neighboring country. I also had the privilege of sharing my knowledge with other creatives who are now building their own careers in graphic design.
In 2018, an opportunity brought me to Niamey, Niger. After a few months in a company that failed to meet its commitments, I decided to stay and go freelance. The beginning was extremely tough. Sometimes, I struggled to afford rent for a simple 12 m² room. Thanks to determination, professionalism, and the trust I inspired in my clients, I managed to bounce back. Between 2019 and 2023, I collaborated with major institutions and companies based in Niamey. I was able to rent a 600 m² house, set up my own studio, and regain both professional and personal stability.
Despite this regained comfort, one question kept coming back: how can I go further, refine my vision, and enrich my design approach by connecting with strong foundations in user experience and storytelling? At that time, I couldn’t access a top art and design school, so discovering the IxDF platform in November 2022 was a true gem for me. Through the courses I've taken I gain confidence and enriched my UX skills. In June 2024, I had the opportunity to complete a postgraduate specializing in graphic design at the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Rome, Italy.
I am convinced that design in general plays the most important role in our day life and when it done perfectly, design can improve lives. Based on that, I committed to observe these three levels of responsibility knows as Vignelli Canon:
One - to myself, the integrity of the project and all its components
Two - to the client, to solve the problem in a way that is economically sound and efficient.
Three - to the public at large, the consumer, the user of the final design.
Yeah I know, you may think I am taking life too seriously, in fact yes! but I have also promised to myself to be free and happy now and forever, to appreciate and enjoy the wonders of mother nature, to always keep smiling and just trying to do my best in every circumstance.
Beyond my professional life, I'm passionate about volunteering and using my skills for social good. Whether it's designing educational materials or contributing to community projects through art workshops, I find immense joy in giving back. This belief drives me forward—knowing that every small effort can lead to meaningful change.
Today, a new chapter begins: I’m settling in Geneva, Switzerland, with new ambitions. I’m seeking collaborations that will allow me to apply my skills, continue learning, and innovate. I am actively pursuing further education in design and emerging technologies, with the ambition of succeeding as a designer-entrepreneur while inspiring other creatives to believe in their potential.
If you're interested in collaborating on innovative projects or simply want to chat about design trends and ideas, feel free to reach out! I'm always open to connecting with fellow creatives and exploring new opportunities.