The Department of Graphic Design, University College of Art & Design (University of the Punjab), hosted an engaging and thought-provoking seminar titled “Time & Space in Advertising” on Monday, 8 December 2025. The session was led by renowned poet, writer, and CEO of Time n Space Media, Maqbool Ahmed Mirza, whose multidisciplinary career and reflective worldview offered students a rich learning experience.
Prof. Dr. Ahmad Bilal, Head of the Department of Graphic Design, led the event, welcoming the speaker and highlighting the importance of exposing design students to industry perspectives that extend beyond technical skills and into critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and evolving creative landscapes.
In his talk, Maqbool Ahmed Mirza discussed the current challenges of the design industry, drawing attention to shifting market expectations, rapid technological changes, and the growing need for designers to position themselves not only as creators but also as strategic thinkers. He emphasised the role of entrepreneurship in enabling designers to take ownership of their ideas, develop sustainable practices, and build independent creative pathways in a highly competitive field.
A significant portion of the session explored the increasing influence of artificial intelligence on advertising and visual communication. He outlined AI’s expanding applications—from concept generation to audience analytics—while urging students to approach the technology with both curiosity and responsibility. According to Mirza, AI should amplify human creativity rather than replace it.
He also addressed the intricate client–designer relationship, offering practical insights into communication, expectation management, and the importance of mutual respect in collaborative creative work. Throughout his talk, Mirza interwove reflections on his life philosophy and personal journey, encouraging students to remain grounded, adaptable, and open to learning from experiences beyond the classroom.
The session was highly interactive, with active participation from students who posed questions about career development, industry ethics, and future skill requirements. Mirza, in turn, posed questions to the audience, creating an engaging dialogue that enhanced the seminar’s educational value.
Faculty members from across UCAD attended the event, contributing to a vibrant academic environment. The department presented a bouquet of flowers to the guest speaker as a gesture of appreciation, and certificates were distributed to attendees following the session.
The seminar successfully bridged academic learning with real-world industry wisdom, leaving students inspired to navigate the evolving design landscape with creativity, resilience, and informed perspective.
Who Is Maqbool Mirza? – A Reflection by Imran Malik
Back in 2002–2003, while working for Sunday TV, I met Maqbool Mirza — a meeting I still consider unforgettable. Rising from a ‘compromised’ background, he went on to dominate Lahore’s advertising scene like no other.
From Tetrapak to Bio Amla, Treet Corporation to Marhaba, he handled major brands without any international affiliations — yet consistently outperformed Karachi’s biggest agencies. His success extended deep into federal and Punjab government communications.
Many who once worked under him are now agency owners, media heads and industry leaders today.
A true original. A visionary. And a continuing inspiration for Pakistan’s creative community.
