Changemakers: Building Your Personal Brand for Sustainable Employment

Students from the BA Graphic Design course at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) took part in an inspiring Changemakers employability event, titled “Building Your Personal Brand for Sustainable Employment.” 

The afternoon session, led by Rachael Wheatley, owner and creative director of Waters Creative, combined industry insight, personal storytelling, and creative challenges designed to build students’ confidence and professional skills.

The event formed part of the students’ Changemakers module and was attended by twelve second-year students from the University’s Swansea College of Art. Rachael opened the session with an engaging talk about her own creative journey, from working in industry to freelancing and eventually founding the successful design agency Waters Creative. Her presentation was packed with practical advice for students aspiring to work in creative studios or pursue freelance careers, underpinned by her message:

“Everything begins with an idea, but you need to believe in yourself – belief and confidence breed success.”

Following the talk, students took part in a series of lively creative workshops designed to encourage collaboration, quick thinking, and inventive problem-solving. Working in small groups, they created animal images using only torn post-it notes and constructed famous landmarks using straws, tape, and paper, simple materials that challenged them to think creatively under pressure.

Student Martha Stephens said: “It’s wonderful that we get professionals like Rachael visiting us here at UWTSD. I really learned a lot from her presentation, and the creative tasks were challenging and a lot of fun.”

Entrepreneurship lecturer Ian Simmons said: “Events like this are a core part of UWTSD’s commitment to connecting education with real-world experience. Rachael’s session reinforced the importance of self-belief, adaptability, and creative collaboration, skills that are essential for success in the fast-changing world of design and communication.”

Rachael Wheatley said: “I was delighted to work with such an engaged and talented group of students. The creative industries move quickly, and sessions like this help prepare students for the realities of that world, encouraging them to find their voice and build their personal brand with authenticity and confidence.”

Ian added: “Strong links with industry are a defining feature of UWTSD’s creative programmes. The insights and opportunities gained from sessions like this ensure that graduates are equipped with the competencies required to thrive in a rapidly evolving employment landscape.”

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071