Claude Bou Fadel, Senior Executive – Performance, OMD #30under30
I was the quiet kid once… What happened? some might ask.
I was not expecting my love for colors to become my side hustle.
I am a morning person, no coffee needed (Don’t ask me how)
OR a work-in-progress, “a la decouverte”.
I am not one to settle for black and white when the world is full of color.
I shall be whoever I set my mind to be. That might change with time but that’s the journey that was written for me.
I shall not be a representation of what the society has set as standards nor defined by one role or title.
I like it when clients trust the creative process and give freedom to explore.
I dislike it when someone says, “That’s not how it’s done in this industry.” Says who?
My biggest ambition is to leave a creative legacy people reference with a smile.
My biggest worry is running out of ideas — but luckily, life is full of inspiration.
I am most proud of the women I am today that is full of joy and happiness ready to share it with the world.
I am a bit ashamed that I sometimes finish projects at the last minute (but they still shine).
Looking back, probably I should have said yes to more “crazy” ideas.
Looking back, probably I should not have underestimated the power of collaboration.
It all fell apart when my “quick DIY project” required a call to a professional.
Things made sense when I stopped striving for perfection and focused on connection.
Eventually things will align perfectly, like the final piece of a custom design.
Eventually things will not get dull if I have anything to say about it.
Someone once advised me that “The best things in life are on the other side of your maximum fear” OR “taking a break is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for long-term success and well-being.”
I once advised someone that waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap; just take the leap and figure it out along the way.
If I had a superpower, it would be flying.
My superpower in real life is my sense of humor.
The word I use most is “Yalla?” is my way of motivating both myself and those around me to act and get things moving.
The word is dislike most is “Haram” aka “Poor thing”, because it implies a sense of pity or inferiority. I believe everyone is capable, and framing someone in that way gives a negative feeling, as if they’re lesser or powerless—which is far from true.
This too shall pass, like everything else that did and that will in the future.
My most treasured passion is infusing creativity into both work and life.
People should be more grateful for the things they have, that doesn’t mean they should not be ambitious and work hard for more and explore, but at the end of the day you must have a quick look around you and say, “I’m thankful and grateful for what I have”.
People should be less afraid and live more; life is about small leaps of faith.
I wish to thank everyone who saw potential in me before I did and let me add a splash of color into their world.
