Encouraging Words for Aspiring Graphic Artists, Entrepreneurs

A fortunate few students grow up knowing what they want to do with their lives. Most need some help deciding. For those who seek guidance, the City of DeSoto and the non-profit PLAY Inc. team up to offer an annual Career Camp, which offers young people ages 13-15 a chance to learn about various career fields from the people who do the work every day.

For the second consecutive year, SDA founder and creative director Armando Simmons has served as a guest speaker at the camp, sharing thoughts and inspiration with students who might have an interest in graphic design.

“So many young people have raw talent at their fingertips, but they don’t succeed because they have no idea how to channel their interests into a real career,” said Armando. “I want to show students how their artistic abilities have great value in the business world.”

Beyond the field of design and branding, Armando offered insights into entrepreneurship and what has allowed him to build a prosperous company of his own.

“The real message for kids is that with hard work and imagination, you can take your passion and use it to build a successful future for yourself,” he said.