We were lucky to catch up with Kendra Lebo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kendra, appreciate you joining us today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

The biggest trend I am seeing currently is the push for AI generated images, illustrations, logos, artwork, etc. I believe it undermines individuality, creativity, and drains creative work of any meaning. It is also a huge drain on our natural resources due to energy and water use. I have had several clients come to me for help after trying an AI platform or using a designer who is secretly using AI to generate design work, which I see as unethical. I think corporations see it as a way to save money by not employing humans. I am kind of surprised by creatives embracing it as it will lead to their eventual obsolesce. I think a better strategy is to be more strategic and work to build skills on analog and hand artwork skills that cannot be replicated by AI.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I partner with design-focused fashion, home, retail and jewelry companies, to develop brand strategy, create compelling visual identities, and craft memorable and enduring brands.

I work with early stage start-ups through established brands. My process involves identifying a target market, developing an aligned brand strategy, and translating that into visually compelling branding and logo suites. I also offer industry specific e-commerce website planning and design, packaging design, and marketing and social media strategy.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to support design focused, female-led fashion and lifestyle businesses, that believe in creating a sustainable future. We believe in businesses that advocate for fewer, better things, rather than disposable products and fast fashion.

Supporting small businesses, and helping them succeed, create jobs, and create freedom and independence for their founders is my guiding light.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I think perfectionism was the hardest thing for me to unlearn in a creative business. You will make mistakes, a lot of them, and the key to success is to not take anything personally and think of everything as a test. I am testing out this product, or social media post, it is not a reflection of me or my self worth if it does not resonate, I am simply gathering data and trying things out. If things do fail or don’t gain traction the knowledge gained is much more valuable than hitting on the one successful thing right away, because it helps you to develop a process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kendralebo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendralebo.design
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-lebo-0569557/