Multi-faceted, experimental, and prolific, Mayda works on several fronts including concept development, graphic design, illustration, Arabic typography and Arabic applications. Currently Beirut-based, her 30-year career explores the idea of diversity in culture and the idea of belonging, where she addresses challenges as opportunities for creative exploration and focused communication. She also draws upon years of solid visual consulting experience in New York, where she collaborated with high-profile agencies such as Union Design, Pentagram and Futurebrand.

Over the course of her career, Mayda has produced several award-winning projects and has been featured in numerous publications. Since 2010, she has been working with Communica Design, New York, as Creative Director and Director of Arabic Relations.

Mayda is Pivots & Blocks’ leader for Arabic language practices, branding, and communications. Her cultural, linguistic, and geographic positioning has enabled her to navigate through complex business briefs with stunning clarity, and with the ability to deliver creative and crisp solutions to the most complex cultural challenges in the Middle East.

Drawing on two decades of global expansion strategies and leadership experience, Mariella carries a mixed background that spans multiple industries ranging from media, industrial, retail, food service, and education services among others. A former CMO and Innovation Director in industrial companies, she is also the founder of a lifestyle magazine at the young age of 17. A designer at heart, Mariella holds a Masters in Packaging Engineering from the HDM University in Germany, and has pursued a doctorate in sustainability at the University of Wuppertal.

A former Assistant Professor, she supports and coaches entrepreneurs, chairmen and executives on balancing between personal and professional development. She works closely with startups, family-owned, and multinational companies on fast-track transformations, sustainability challenges, and organizational design and effectiveness.