Yahya Syed
Yahya Syed
Creative Director - They / Them
(2)
4
Location
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Bio

As a multimedia storyteller, intersectionality is at the core of my creative philosophy, and a quintessential element while crafting a brand strategy that is representative of the clients and the audiences they want to connect with. I enjoy collaborative conceptualising and ideation, with an aim to bring something unique yet relatable to the table, with transformative empathy at its core, all through mostly a show, not tell approach.

I believe in the interplay of the macro and the micro – be it how different media communicate the overall message or how the various parts of a brand overlap. This is best represented in the metaphor of the beehive. Worker bees, under a pre-coded formula, head out into the wild to collect nectar from numerous flowers and bring their unique offerings into an ordered hive to create a singular, balanced product.

With degrees in Mass Communication, Journalism, and Public Relations, I have had adventures in both B2B and B2C sectors. As a cultural nomad, I have professionally made camps in non-profits (community, political, sports, arts, sciences, and mental health), tech startups, education, entertainment, immigration, publishing, film industries, and digital marketing agencies.

I have been a conduit for stories chiefly through words (ghostwriting, copy-writing, long-form, and short-form blogging, magazine and newspaper articles, Op-Eds, press releases, non-fiction and fiction novel writing, screenwriting, lyrics, and poetry), visual media (event, studio, portrait, brand, and conceptual photography + short film, documentary, and ad film-making + graphic design & illustration), networking (event organisation, coordination, management + emceeing), social media (management, coordination, monitoring, and content creation), and technical work (editing, proofreading, and working as a crew on film sets).

My motto is learning, always.

Companies
Categories
Market research Lead generation Search engine optimization Fundraising Grant writing

Socials

Achievements

Latest feedback

Kavya Chandra
Learner
March 11, 2025
Project feedback
Working with Yahya at Grassroots Multimedia was an incredibly rewarding experience. From the beginning, Yahya was warm, supportive, and highly engaged in the process, creating a collaborative environment where I felt encouraged to learn and grow. Their guidance and structured approach made a significant impact on my experience, balancing clear deadlines with the flexibility to explore creative solutions. One of the things I appreciated most about Yahya was their ability to provide thoughtful and constructive feedback. They were always available to meet, discuss ideas, and refine strategies, ensuring that I had the support I needed to produce quality work. Their approachable and encouraging leadership style fostered an open dialogue where my input was valued. Beyond their mentorship, Yahya and I shared a vision for supporting small businesses and finding opportunities to empower LGBTQ psychologists. It was inspiring to work alongside someone who is not only passionate about digital storytelling but also deeply invested in uplifting underrepresented voices. Their commitment to ethical and impactful marketing was evident in every aspect of their work. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from Yahya and would highly recommend working with them to anyone looking for a mentor who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated to meaningful work. Their ability to create an inclusive and empowering learning environment made this experience truly special.
University of Saskatchewan Level UP
May 2024 - April 2025 USask Level UP
University of Saskatchewan Level UP
Grassroots Multimedia
Grassroots Multimedia Marketing and Market Analysis Project
Grassroots Multimedia
Daniel Nielsen
Daniel Nielsen
Sessional Faculty
September 18, 2024
Project feedback
My students had a wonderful experience working with Yahya and Bassem from Grassroots Multimedia on their Digital Marketing Strategy. I can highly recommend them.
University Canada West
Strategic Marketing Management (Summer 2024)
University Canada West
Grassroots Multimedia
Grassroots Multimedia Marketing and Market Analysis Project
Grassroots Multimedia

Recent projects

Grassroots Multimedia
Grassroots Multimedia
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Grassroots Multimedia Marketing and Market Analysis Project

The primary objective of this project is to provide Grassroots Multimedia with a thorough understanding of its competitive landscape within the emerging agency sector. This involves delving into the marketing strategies employed by similar agencies to effectively position themselves in the market. By conducting detailed research and analysis, the project aims to identify key trends, tactics, and approaches utilized by competitors to attract clients and promote their services. Furthermore, the project seeks to develop a robust social media strategy tailored specifically to the needs and goals of Grassroots Multimedia. This entails a comprehensive examination of various social media platforms, content types, engagement strategies, and audience targeting techniques. The ultimate aim is to equip Grassroots Multimedia with the tools and knowledge necessary to leverage social media effectively as a marketing tool, thereby enhancing brand visibility, engagement, and conversion rates. In addition to competitor analysis and social media strategy development, the project will also involve conducting thorough market research. This phase will focus on identifying and understanding the needs, preferences, and behaviors of Grassroots Multimedia's target clientele - which includes social enterprises, community organizations, and artists, among others. By analyzing market trends, consumer demographics, and industry dynamics, the project aims to pinpoint the most promising opportunities for growth and expansion within the agency's target market segments. Overall, the project encompasses a multifaceted approach that requires learners to engage in in-depth research, critical analysis, and strategic planning. Through these efforts, learners can gain valuable insights and actionable strategies that will inform them about finding success in the marketplace.

Matches 3
Category Competitive analysis + 4
Closed
Grassroots Multimedia
Grassroots Multimedia
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Collaborative Movements Documentary Series

The main goal for the project is to develop a multi-part documentary series titled "Collaborative Movements" which explores the intersections of non-profits, social enterprises, third spaces and local communities in Ottawa in regards to topics and initiatives concerning public well-being, art, sustainability, food and housing security, and culture. The project also involves seeking assistance in grant writing and creating a filming project plan.

Matches 1
Category Project management + 4
Closed