About me

My name is Cecilia Ekman-Toivanen. I'm a creative problem solver who's inspired by innovation and development. I'm curious about life and I'm constantly on the lookout for new knowledge.

Graphic design skills

Since 2012 I have done graphic work for clients, in addition to my regular job. Visual communication, branding, layout and marketing are what I am most passionate about.

As a graphic designer, I’m not afraid of challenges at work and my curiosity often leads me to interesting projects and assignments. Starting and rowing ashore projects is my strength. When I get a task, you can be sure that I take it very seriously and that I set the bar high!

To get recognition for my skills (and challenge my knowledge), I'm now studying for a bachelor's degree in graphic design.

In my opinion, graphic design is all about solving problems, finding the best visual solutions and making things clear with layout that attract attention. The best thing about graphic design is that the whole world can be your field of work, no matter where you are. There is so much out there that can be improved with the help of a skilled graphic designer!

Work experience

As an intern I have practiced graphic design at ELLE magazine (editorial office) in Helsinki and designed trend books at the Swedish Fashion Council in Stockholm. When I worked in cosmetics sales at Kicks (which is part of the Axstores Group), I got the opportunity to go to Hong Kong as Axstores trend ambassador. I have also traveled around Finland to start up new Kicks stores and train new staff when Kicks expanded into the Finnish market.

Through a project with Design Center Muova in Vasa, I learned about business concept development (how to develop companies products, services, spaces and brands using creative design methods). I then rebranded a company that later hired my services to help them with their marketing and social media, which led me to trade fairs in Paris and London.

In my younger years fashion and beauty was a big interest, and I have studied both. After that I studied pedagogy to be able to teach these subjects. For 5 years I worked as a teacher at vocational school level. As a teacher, I invested in developing digital learning. For a year I was a digital mentor for other teachers and involved in the development work of digital environments within the organization. Then I was promoted to Teamleader, which is my most recent position.

I have settled down in my hometown Jakobstad where I live with my husband and our children (ages 9 and 6). I'm 37 years old, I love to read, renovate the house, travel and spend time at sea.

Others describe me as creative, responsive, versatile, meticulous and that I am quick at generating ideas. My best quality is my determination. When I set my mind into something, I do everything I can to make it as good as possible.