Meet Salih Abdul-Rahman | Freelance Graphic Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Salih Abdul-Rahman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Salih, how do you think about risk?
I’ve always believed that risk is where growth begins. In my late teens, I made the decision to leave home and step into the unknown. That experience taught me very early that risk and uncertainty are not something to fear, but something that shapes you.

Later, when I started my career, I worked a secure 9–5 job. But I realized the role limited my creativity, so I took the risk of leaving it behind to freelance. Freelancing gave me more flexibility, but eventually I also had to walk away from a role that didn’t allow me to fully express myself as a designer.

Those decisions weren’t easy, they came with uncertainty and sacrifice but each one brought me closer to the kind of work that aligns with my passion and creative vision. Looking back, I see that every big leap of faith has built my resilience, sharpened my instincts, and allowed me to design a career that feels authentic.

For me, risk isn’t about recklessness. It’s about trusting yourself enough to pursue freedom, creativity, and growth, even when the path isn’t clear.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a Creative Lead and Graphic Designer specializing in photo composition and visual identity, with over 3 years of experience in the industry. My journey here has been anything but easy. I left home in my late teens, and from the start, I had to figure things out on my own. Along the way, I worked both a 9–5 job and later a freelance role, but I chose to walk away from them because they didn’t give me the creative freedom I needed. Those risks were tough, but they pushed me to build my own path as a designer.

What sets me apart is that I have a strong eye for composition, I’m versatile across different design areas, I have a clean but striking visual language, and I approach projects with problem-solving creativity. I see design as more than just visuals, i see it as a form of storytelling, and I’m passionate about creating work that connects with people on a deeper level and is appealing to the eye.

How I got here professionally is through consistency and relentless practice. I believe that constant practice beats talent, and that mindset has carried me through my toughest moments. Whenever things were hard, I leaned on discipline, kept practicing and kept learning. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that growth never stops, you must always keep learning.

Another important lesson is that you need to be mindful of the kind of people you surround yourself with. Having supportive, positive, and encouraging people around me gave me the strength to keep going when things got tough

And what I want the world to know about me and my work is that I create with intention. Every design I produce is not just about aesthetics, but about delivering something meaningful, impactful, and authentic to each brand’s unique story.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to Accra for a week, I’d want to give them a calm and cozy experience, because that’s the kind of person I am. I’m not the type who’s always outside, so for me the best memories come from a mix of being at home and visiting a few inspiring places.

We’d start the week at home, cooking, eating together, and just catching up. I think there’s something special about creating those simple moments indoors. Midweek, I’d take them to a cozy café like Vida e Caffè a nice spot to relax, enjoy coffee, and soak in the calm atmosphere. One of the highlights would be a day at the beach, because the ocean is not just peaceful but also a great source of inspiration.

Other days, we’d keep it simple, cooking at home, listening to music, creating our own vibe. Toward the end of the week, I’d take them out to a quiet restaurant for dinner, nothing loud or overwhelming, just a cozy place with good food and conversation. And on the final day, we’d probably keep it light, maybe another café visit or just reflecting at home on the week we spent.
For me, the best time isn’t about rushing from one place to another. It’s about comfort, connection, and enjoying calm spaces that allow for real conversations and inspiration.

For me, the best time isn’t about rushing from one place to another. It’s about comfort, connection, and enjoying calm spaces that allow for real conversations and inspiration.”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
“I want to dedicate my shoutout first to Adobe Messiah, for entrusting me with projects and holding me down during tough times both financially and with encouragement. I also want to appreciate Irene Donati, who saw potential in me and decided to work with me even when my interview didn’t go well. And finally, to my girlfriend, who has been my biggest believer, reminding me of my worth and helping me believe in myself even more. Each of you has played a big role in my journey, and I’m truly grateful.”

Website: https://psdgad.artstation.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psd.gad?igsh=MWR0cmU1eTVqeHZxMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr