A Nigerian student in Bangladesh, Baqau Hassan Omotayo has received the International Bangabandhu Youth Art Competition First Prize Winner Award (Graphic Design Category). The selected artworks were virtually exhibited by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
Iwo born Baqau Hassan is a 4th semester student of BRAC University, Bangladesh at the Department of English and Humanities. He won the judges’ hearts with his contemporary Islamic art in graphic design category titled “Eid Mubarak”.
According to the school, Omotayo said, “It was unbelievably amazing. I still feel emotional when I think about it now, as it is one of the best things that have ever happened to me. It is wonderful to receive not just recognition but public recognition for something you have done.”
“I’ve been a graphic designer for young entrepreneurs and startups for the past 3 years and I have completed many projects throughout my freelance career. My work isn’t limited to freelancing; I am also showing my graphic skills within my community as well which has brought me a good reputation within some non-governmental organisations.”
“With this award, I got to realize how I can make changes with my skills, and moreover, it teaches me to make it a lifelong goal to never stop learning and always enhance my skills. One of my freelance missions today is to help young entrepreneurs and startups to design their branding and create their communication tools.”
“I believe my long-term career goals can only be achieved if my time at university is not only productive, but to a standard that is respected by the industry I want to work in. With this, I can proudly say that this university is not just shaping me academically, but also teaching me how to find my own meaning and purpose in life.”
Dhaka OIC Youth Capital 2020-21 Bangabandhu Youth Art Competition was organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, in association with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bangladesh and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh. It is one of 10 events being celebrated on Bangladesh being announced as the OIC Youth Capital 2020. Istanbul-based Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum, an entity affiliated with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), made the declaration on December 25, 2019.A total of 335 participants aged from 18 years to 35 years took part in the competition from 57 countries of the OIC. The competition was split into three zones: Bangladesh, Asia and the rest of the world.
