When asked to describe her mural in three words, recent George Brown College graduate, Yalda Mohammadghezelayagh doesn't hesitate: vibrant, diverse, playful - words that mirror her experience as a student at the college.
A 2025 graduate of the Graphic Design program, Mohammadghezelayagh worked with the college Marketing and Communications team to design the 8-by-20-foot mural displayed outside Meridian Hall on Front Street. Standing on the west plaza in all its glory, it's a fitting welcome for grads and guests to the convocation celebrations and a popular backdrop for photos.
Titled Memories Shaped by the City and College, the mural captures just that. When brainstorming ideas, Yalda found herself revisiting the moments that defined her time at George Brown: finding lifelong friends, learning and growing, exploring Toronto, and now celebrating the milestone of graduation. She also intentionally incorporated George Brown College's signature colours to tie it all together.
When she found out that Centre for Arts, Design and Information Technology Interim Dean Ana Rita Morais had recommended her for the opportunity, she was thrilled and eager for the opportunity to explore her creativity and showcase her work.
"The mural is a great illustration and, hopefully, a story that resonates with all new grads. It captures what we hope is the full George Brown College experience: remembering the joyful moments, the tough ones you pushed through, the connections made, and the celebration of all your hard work, right in the heart of downtown Toronto." - Janene Christiansen, Registrar and Associate Vice-President, Strategic Enrolment.
As for what's next, Yalda is looking ahead to the future with excitement. She's looking forward to beginning her journey as a graphic designer in Toronto and continuing to use her creativity with purpose.
"I don't want my work to be just beautiful. I want it to be impactful."
