Susanne Neumann in Berlin designed an exciting IWD Accelerate Action lettering project
Creatives play an important role in elevating International Women's Day (IWD) through helping amplify awareness raising. Via their creative contributions, audiences worldwide are engaged through collective action to help forge gender equality.
Each year the IWD Lettering Challenge, in association with the global Typism community, calls for creative designs that support an annual IWD focus and showcase the impressive talent of creators.
Here, we shine a spotlight on one such creative, Susanne Neumann, and showcase her IWD 2025 Accelerate Action design, which she created digitally in bold colors.
"Illustration and lettering are the two focal points of my creative work and are at the heart of everything I do. From these, I create stationery products and small, special items designed with great attention to detail, meant to bring joy to you or your loved ones. It's particularly important to me to share my enthusiasm for creative techniques," says Susanne.
Susanne is the creative mind behind Lilies Berlin and via her lovingly crafted creations, she aims to make the world a little more colorful, cheerful, and inspiring.
"For me, creativity isn't just expressed in painting—there are endless ways to be creative, regardless of the medium or method," she says.
A talented lettering artist and online shop owner
Image credit: Alexander Neumann
Based in Berlin in Germany, Susanne is an occupational therapist, illustrator, and lettering artist, as well as an owner of a small online shop.
"In 2017, I began exploring hand lettering and the art of beautiful lettering. It wasn't easy for me to begin—but I suspect that's the case for many who are exploring a new subject. To all of you taking your first steps into this world: Let me tell you, don't lose heart! It takes time, patience, and practice. Looking back today, I'm incredibly proud of how far I've come and how my skills have developed," explains Susanne.
Susanne is a passionate moviegoer and also enjoys curling up on the couch to watch exciting films and series or read a book. She's also a cat mom and a loving aunt.
"I've been living in Berlin since 2012. Here, one of the most important people in my life rekindled my creativity, which I had lost for many years. It all started with a pencil and a passion for drawing. Then I came up with the idea of designing and selling custom-painted bags – an exciting chapter that culminated in my self-employment in 2015. Since then, I've painted numerous bags with love and care and sold them to people. Every custom request still brings a smile to my face! But it didn't stop there. My creative path led me further—this time into the world of watercolor art. I began designing paper products, which I sold online and at various markets. With each new project, my product range grew, and new products were added. In 2017, I finally discovered my love for letters: hand lettering captivated me. Using a variety of analogue techniques, it's simply a joy to get creative and put ideas on paper. In 2022, I finally took the plunge and bought a tablet. Since then, I've enjoyed the freedom of being able to create anywhere, with just one device—a true enrichment for my everyday work. Passing on my passion has also been important to me for a long time. In 2019, I started offering creative workshops—from hand lettering to stamp carving to bookbinding. But in 2024, I decided to take a break because I'd lost some of my joy in it. Creativity is my passion, and when I teach something, I do it with complete conviction and enthusiasm," explains Susanne.
Check out some of Susanne's work on Etsy and Spreadshirt for a colorful selection of designs, paper products, and further creative items.
"Secure yourself a piece of Lilies Berlin and bring joy into your life—or that of your loved ones," encourages Susanne.
Share your creative talent with the world
Post your creation on your social media feeds using the hashtags #AccelerateAction #IWDtypism for a chance to be featured throughout the year.
Together, let's Accelerate Action for gender equality.