Mentor Pool

I am Abdulla "Abo" Shafyu, a Maldivian graphic designer, art director, and type designer with 15 years of experience in the creative industry, having started my design journey in 2011. My areas of expertise include branding, visual identity, Thaana lettering, typography, editorial design, and creative direction.

I am a partner and Art Director at Encrea Studio, where I lead creative direction across branding, design, and digital experiences. I also serve as Type Director at Akuru Type, a curated marketplace for Dhivehi typefaces, where I work towards advancing Thaana typography and creating opportunities for local type designers.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with clients across a broad range of sectors, including tourism and destination marketing, sports, healthcare, international development and NGOs, education, technology and startups, hospitality, food & beverage, media and publishing, creative industries, and digital marketplaces.

My individual achievements include the Maldives Youth Award 2022 in Arts & Craftsmanship and the Maldives Media Council Journalism Award 2021 in Graphic Design & Illustration. As part of Encrea Studio, I have also contributed to the team's recognition as Create MSME of the Year 2025. In 2026, Akuru Type was awarded 1st Place in Innovative ICT at Maldives Expo, recognising its contribution to innovation in the technology and creative sectors.

As a mentor, I aim to share the knowledge and practical insights gained through my professional journey, particularly in design, branding, typography, and creative entrepreneurship. I am passionate about supporting emerging designers and young entrepreneurs in strengthening their creative thinking, developing their skills, building confidence, and navigating the realities of the industry. I hope to help them transform ideas into meaningful work, develop a strong professional foundation, and build sustainable creative careers and businesses.