"Ron & his colleagues at Meat were keen to volunteer and they've created a memorable brand for this year's Creative Directions. I've seen Ron's design passion on display throughout that process, as well as other industry events. It's been great to see him come into his own as an important contributor to the Association. Can't wait to see what comes next!" — Julian Brown RGD, Chair, RGD Design Committee. 

How long have you been volunteering with the RGD and in what capacity?

I have been volunteering with the RGD since mid-2020. Initially, I was involved as a Mentor participating in the RGD's Mentorship program and most recently my studio Meat did the branding for 2022 Creative Directions Conference.

What contribution are you most proud of? What experience/memory stands out for you?

I'm proud to be able to mentor students and grads especially given my BIPOC background. To share my experience and offer support to young designers finding a path in their careers has been humbling as well as rewarding.

What is the most surprising/unexpected thing to come out of volunteering with the RGD?

All through the pandemic, the RGD has continued to project positivity by hosting a variety of virtual events and conferences, keeping the industry connected and maintaining a support network that is quite accessible. This energy from our community has encouraged me to continue to contribute what I can, ultimately making me feel more grateful and connected. 

What have you learned about the industry since volunteering for the RGD?

Designers are indeed very driven and curious creatures! Despite the difficult times over the past 2 years, the hunger to connect and share our passion in design hasn’t waned. We have had energetic and vibrant discussions in each RGD meeting I have attended with other volunteers. It has been a driving force through the pandemic. 

Based on your experience volunteering with the RGD, how would you describe the role of the organization in the industry?

For me, it comes down to connecting with the design community through many experiences, whether its webinars, portfolio reviews or conferences. The RGD serves an important role in mobilizing the design community in Canada, letting the world know that there is a professional support network for designers out there.

What have you gained from being an RGD volunteer and why would you recommend it to other members who might be thinking of getting involved?

I have gained a sense of perspective and responsibility. It has made me re-evaluate my role in the industry at large and helped me look inward, at the same time connecting me to peers I would probably not have met otherwise. I recommend it to all Members because volunteering is the best way to learn and pay it forward!

Do you have thoughts on what you might like to do as a volunteer with the RGD in the future?

I would like to continue mentoring young designers and eventually I hope to participate and speak at the RGD conferences.

Ronald Tau RGD (@rontau) is a Chinese Canadian art director and graphic designer specializing in creating visual identities. Born in Hong Kong, raised in Toronto, relocated to Beijing, Ronald creates in multicultural creative contexts, crossing cultural borders through creativity and design. Ronald’s work has been covered and/or awarded in a variety of awards and media, ranging from the Tokyo Type Directors Club (Japan), It’s Nice That (U.K.), the Museum of New York (US), Asia-Pacific Design (China), Typojanchi (Korea). Ronald founded and operates Meat Studio (@meat.studio) between Beijing and Toronto.