Federica lives between Milano and Siem Reap. She believes in opportunities, loves her job and takes inspiration from the outside world. She also enjoys writing and is experienced in photography. Federica’s been working in GD for more than 10 years and now balances her life as a freelance designer and volunteer in Cambodia. She’s an expert in brand design, packaging and web design. Not many are so devoted to help others or can say they’ve done graphics for a Lamborgini!

- Tell us about some of the charity projects you have designed for?

The first time I worked as a volunteer was in Cairo. I went over there because one of my friends from London is a priest; a Combonian Missionary father and I wanted to do something useful not just for me. Sometime ADV and Graphic Design world can be too silly. Anyway, I visited with Jorge all the parish in and around Cairo and I saw poverty and discrimination and I got in contact with the Muslim and the Sudan refugees world. It has been tough. I made 2 logos and 2 sites the Comboni Missionaries and that experience changed my life.

Now I’m in Cambodia, I live between Italy and Cambodia trying to do the same, help people and NGO doing my job and sometimes something more for free. Cambodia is totally different from Cairo and it is more liveable but not much to do. It’s a really poor country and they need help. I keep on working as a volunteer, sometimes it’s a logo, sometimes a site or a board and a leaflet. I also designed our Coffee House interior and logo with coordinated business cards, menus and leaflets. It was very enjoyable and meaningful, everything it is here.

That’s why I’m trying to work through the net because I’m a freelancer between Italy and Cambodia and I need to earn as well. Unfortunately people are often close-minded and don’t feel at ease if they can’t met you personally. blur Designs could be my answer.

- What are the most important principles for designers to have?

Do you mean moral principles? Anyway, I think a designer must not copy anything and have to be honest about their job, don’t underestimate or overestimate his work.

- Describe your ideal sandwich?

Sandwich? I am celiac, glutten-free for me!

- Best piece of advice you have learned as a freelancer?

Be professional and on time, have a good portfolio and good connections.

- Your personal favourite typeface & Why?

Frutiger. It’s clean, clear, flexible and lucky for me.

-Also, what question would you like to ask a designer in a future Designer Spotlight?”

How could you make new and interesting contacts?