Creative Director Ryan Starr creates an IWD Give To Gain design for the strong and generous women in his life
International Women's Day is a great occasion to call for stronger, more intentional allyship. Lasting change depends on people who choose to stand alongside others, using their voices, influence, and actions to challenge inequality. Creativity can form a powerful part of that effort, whether through raising awareness, sharing stories, elevating voices, or using design and art to question the status quo.
Here, we shine a spotlight on one creative ally, Ryan Starr, and showcase his fabulous IWD 2026 Give to Gain design.
Celebrating women in his life
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.
The challenge aims to raise awareness, showcase talent, and provide visibility for creatives while supporting gender equality.
"Every year Typism partners with International Women's Day and this year's theme is #GiveToGain. Here's my contribution for all the strong and generous women in my life," said Ryan introducing his design.
Recognition for hand lettering
Based in the United States, Ryan is a visionary Senior Creative Director with years of experience in leading brand transformation through strategic creative direction, integrated marketing, and a commitment to design excellence.
Ryan's work in hand-lettered illustration has gained widespread recognition, including publication in Typism Book 10 in 2024 and being named among Technical.ly Philly's 12 Philly Designers You Should Keep an Eye On.
A career in creative leadership
Ryan studied Graphic Design at Pennsylvania College of Technology, strengthening the foundation for a career that blends creativity with leadership.
His career began in the world of professional sports with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he managed visual identity and brand guidelines to ensure consistency across all fan-facing materials and experiences. He then moved into creative leadership roles in Philadelphia, working as Senior Art Director at Agency M and later as Senior Creative Director at Saint Joseph's University.
Ryan now runs his own creative business, Ryan Starr Design, providing leadership and creative strategy to organizations seeking to elevate their brand and creative direction.
An active voice among creatives
Beyond his design work, Ryan is an active voice in the creative community. He has spoken at and moderated panels on creative leadership and the design industry. He also created and hosted the design and leadership podcast HI-RES, producing over 300 episodes featuring a range of industry leaders. The podcast was nominated for Multimedia Project of the Year at the Philly Geek Awards back in 2017.
Share your creative talent with the world
Get involved with the annual IWD Lettering Challenge by creating your own piece and share your creative spirit with the world.
Post your creation on your social media feeds throughout the year using hashtags #IWD2026 #GiveToGain #IWDtypism for a chance to be potentially eatured.
Together, let's Give to Gain and help forge gender equality through abundant giving.