The PDA Difference

Ramsey is a cinematographer, director, producer, editor, and co-founder of Sublunar Films in Victoria, BC. With 15 years of experience in New York City as a founding partner of Room 5 Films, he has an extensive portfolio in documentary, narrative, and commercial projects. Notable work includes the short and feature film LUCID, Seymour: An Introduction, Bodega, and Major Arcana. He has also worked as an editor on projects like Moving Midway and A Woman Like Me. Ramsey has taught cinematography and editing at NYU, the School of Visual Arts, and The Edit Center.

Santiago Cardoso is a multidisciplinary graphic designer with over 15 years of experience in branding, editorial, web design, and social media strategy. Originally from Mexico City, he has collaborated with agencies and brands such as Tyson Foods, Pfizer, and Phillips Brewing, as well as with cultural institutions and startups in both Mexico and Canada. Santiago is passionate about visual storytelling and mentoring emerging creatives. He currently lives in Victoria, B.C., where he teaches and continues exploring new creative outlets. 

Graduated from the Art institute of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in 2004. Worked in social gaming at Backstage Technologies (2009) and Gamehouse Canada (2013) where I contributed graphics and artwork for popular social media games like Family Feud & Let’s Make a Deal. Employed as a Video editor and motion graphic artist for Stream of Consciousness media producing motion graphics for Pink Shirt Day (2021-2023), Burning Man’s Online festival (2020),  Animated the year in review with Truthdig.com  A Truthdig carol (2023) winning the LA Press Club Award 2024 for Animation and Motion Graphics. Taught as an instructor at VSBT(2005-2009), Q college (2013-2017), VIW Project (2017-current) & Camosun college (2023-current).

Vida Akef is a graphic designer, illustrator, and educator with experience in Canada and abroad. She holds a BA in Graphic Design, an MA in Illustration, and a PhD in Philosophy of Art from the University of Tehran, as well as a Graphic Design diploma from Pacific Design Academy in Victoria. Vida has taught at Pacific Design Academy and previously lectured at universities in Tehran, while continuing her work in print, branding, motion graphics, and digital media. 

Alexander’s work in advertising design began at a young age, starting with a T-shirt company followed by professional training in Art Direction and Creative Leadership. Through design agencies he founded, advertising agencies he contracted for, or positions at tech companies—Alexander has had a hand in designing branding and ads for over 300 clients including Bolthouse Farms, Microsoft, Disney, DoorDash, and Quicken. 

Ray Elias is a Senior Program Manager who began his career in Interior Design, specializing in hospitality, commercial, and institutional developments, including university and military facilities. This foundation naturally propelled him into project management and real estate development, where he has successfully led complex projects from conceptualization to construction across diverse international markets. With decades of hands-on practice in design development, construction management, and real estate, Ray brings a wealth of practical expertise and a rich, real-world perspective to our students.

Andy is a registered architect, a Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified Professional and an associate at Cascadia. Andy is passionate about inclusive and accessible environments, and believes in the power of architecture to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. He has been working in architecture since 2005 for firms in Toronto, Vancouver and Victoria and has been with Cascadia since 2012. The majority of his work is in affordable and accessible housing in greater Victoria.

Ryan is a professional photographer and photo printer with a background in architecture and landscape imagery. He holds a Photography diploma from PDA and a Media Arts certificate from Sheridan College. He shoots real estate, events, portraits, and landscapes, and prints both commercial and fine art. Outside work, he enjoys surfing, camping, and running in Victoria.

Ana Isabel Carreno is an interior designer, educator, and consultant with a Master’s degree in Interior Design, specializing in biophilic design and interior trend forecasting. She has taught at various universities and has spoken at international events, including the Biophilia Summit 2025 by Living Future Europe. Ana Isabel is also the founder of Homie Decor, a studio and educational platform offering workshops and consultations. Having lived in Mexico and Canada, she is proud that her teaching has inspired students to create environments that promote wellbeing.

Mahshid Babaei Mahani completed her Master’s in Architectural Engineering in Iran and later earned a second Master’s in Art History and Visual Studies from the University of Victoria. She enjoys design and visual project work and is skilled with architectural and presentation software, including AutoCAD, SketchUp, Lumion, Revit, and Adobe programs. She uses these tools throughout the full design process, from early concept development to final presentation stages. Her interests include cross-cultural design, architectural history, and art topics, and she enjoys connecting space, culture, and everyday life through clear and thoughtful design