I believe all designers benefit from the work RGD does to advocate for our industry and connect us all through events like DesignThinkers. It feels more critical than ever to have a governing body that sets a standard for knowledge and professionalism.
- Crystal Carter RGDPresented by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD), the Toronto DesignThinkers conference is the largest annual event in Canada for graphic designers and related communications professionals. But the conference is just one of many initiatives organized by the RGD going on during the year.
The Affiliate RGD Membership/DesignThinkers Combo Ticket provides the discounted “Member” rate to DesignThinkers, as well as savings on Membership in the RGD, which provides access to a range of benefits over the next 12 months. Below are some highlights.
Video Library
A special feature of RGD Membership is access to an archive of over 750 videos. These include recordings of inspiring DesignThinkers presentations going all the way back to 2011. Some of the many illustrious speakers whose talks are available include Michael Bierut (2018) Irma Boom (2014), Aaron Draplin (2021, 2018 + 2014), Karin Fong (2019 + 2013), Jessica Hische (VAN 2024, 2018 + 2011), Debbie Millman (2023 + 2014), Eddie Opara (2016), Stefan Sagmeister (2023 + 2012), Paula Scher (2023 + 2014), Erik Spiekermann (2014) and Jessica Walsh (2014).
Ongoing professional development
In addition to DesignThinkers, the RGD hosts over 40 hour-long webinars a year featuring live speakers offering practical information on topics ranging from UX to accessibility to the challenges of working in-house. RGD Members access all these live sessions free, as well as receiving guest passes to share with colleagues and friends.
Community
RGD Members can network and make connections with other designers throughout the year. In our Slack Community, professional Members can ask questions, access information and share thoughts on the issues impacting our industry. Virtual Communities connect Members who are working in similar disciplines or with similar clients and/or with similar backgrounds. Members also receive discounts on a variety of in-person events that take place across Canada throughout the year.
Profile
The RGD website is a hub for the Canadian design industry and Members are encouraged to post information about themselves and their work to the online Directory as well as contribute articles and other resources that are shared through the RGD’s e-newsletter, with over 25K subscribers. Members also receive discounts to enter RGD competitions, including our 2025 Branding Awards, the winners of which will be featured at next year’s DesignThinkers Conference
Giving back
Not only does RGD Membership provide tangible benefits as outlined above, it also supports a range of valuable resources and initiatives that contribute to a stronger, more informed and more equitable design industry. As a non-profit organization, the RGD invests all of our revenue, including Member dues, into our programming, particularly free resources like the Creative Earners survey, Accessible Design Guidelines and programs for emerging designers such as our Student Awards, Trailblazer Awards and DesignThinkers scholarships. By becoming a Member, you’ll be supporting all of this work as well as receive opportunities to contribute your time and expertise with invitations to judge our annual Student Awards, review student portfolios and act as a Mentor.