Award Year
2025
Why did you choose to enter this work?
Despite the pain and heartbreak of what we see in Gaza, which invoke a deep sense of paralysis. Through creativity, we can take action, channeling grief into something more, resistance and solidarity
What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
The capacity to place a spotlight on Palestinian culture and lend a hand to fundraising, utilising my skills for something far bigger than myself, far more important than anything I've ever made.
What excites you most about being shortlisted?
I just hope this raises the profile of Gaza Cola where 100% of profits are going to humanitarian aid, they didn't have a budget for design so it's been meaningful to offer my design skills.
Where do you usually work?
I've not got any sort of glamorous studio, unfortunately it's not the best of working spaces, my desk is close to the ground so my chair is my floor or my bed. I still make do with what I have.
How long did it take to complete your project?
I've been pouring any free time into it, even now Im still pouring time into this with the aspiration to make some merchandise to advertise this product and raise more money for Palestine.
What is your dream commission?
I think I'm bad at getting commissions, I dont really get much paid work, I tend to focus on those who can't afford to commission and offer my skillset to human rights/social justice causes.
What’s your favourite thing to draw?
Something embedded in empathy, that feels meaningful, creating something to give voice to the marginalised, oppressed to causes that have little visual language, something that gives me purpose
What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Find a cause that truly resonates with you, embrace it, live in that space, and use your creativity to give it a visual voice. I follow my heart in this, some things are worth more than money.
What are your plans for the future?
Empower meaningful causes through visual work and eventually sustain this without personal financial strain. I poured my bank balance into getting a Mini uv printer to make merch to fundraise 4 Gaza
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Raafaye AliSelf portrait
Raafaye AliPalestine House – work in progress