Students currently studying at the Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST), worked on and delivered a new visual identity for local NGO Drachma.

A total of 21 students currently reading for a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design at the College’s Institute of Creative Arts (ICA) participated in this initiative. The project was part of a life case study unit namely, ‘Corporate Brand Creation and Communication’.

Drachma wanted to give a fresh look to their NGO. In particular, they wanted a brand which looked both professional and appealing. The NGO embraces two individual unit groups that work not only in tandem as Drachma LGBTI+ and Drachma Parents, but also cooperate extensively as a single entity. Drachma had two distinct logos for each unit without any visual connection between them. MCAST students under the guidance of Mr Darren Duncan, senior graphic design lecturer at the Institute for the Creative Arts, took the task of creating a new visual identity for Drachma, one which represents unity between both entities.

All students worked on a novel branding project for Drachma, each of them creating a unique visual branding project. At the end of the unit, students presented their work to their lecturer, who shortlisted the submissions to the ten best entries. Drachma presented all final ten submissions to their members for their review, ultimately choosing the winning concept. The winning submission, presented by Mr Nathan Zerafa was chosen and was publicly launched in an event on the 2 February 2024. During the event Drachma launched the new visual identity and logo.

The event provided Mr Zerafa with the perfect opportunity to present his work. He explained the process involved, including the an in-depth research process, what inspired the new logo creation and what the thought process that finally led to Drachma’s new brand identity entailed. This whole rebranding exercise involved research into Drachma’s scope, mission and vision. Mr Zerafa explained how he carefully chose the colors, and how these aimed to represent the ethos of the NGO and its spiritual dimension. Moreover, the symbols chosen for the new brand identity were skillfully chosen to represent Drachma’s idea of integrating one’s own gender with spirituality, while also expressing core value’s of care and support. The project also included suggestions on how the new brand identity could be integrated to different scenarios.

Mr Zerafa was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation, as well as a small gift, by the coordinators of the Drachma LGBTI+ and Drachma parents.

This initiative enabled College students to gain real-life industry experience, offering them valuable insight and hands-on experience, while also creating opportunities for exposure. The College’s objective of exposing students to practical work plays an important role in helping them excel in their future careers and in becoming industry-relevant practitioners.

MCAST’s Institute of Creative Arts offers a wide array of courses, all designed to propel careers within the creative industry. Prospective students interested in enrolling can view courses on offer here.

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