Hollie Fraser

Hollie Fraser attended QEGS Sixth Form from 2002 till 2004 and attended Banovallum beforehand. 

Tell us about the early days of your career. How did you become a Creative Director? 

I studied Graphic Design and Advertising at Buckinghamshire New University. Graduating in 2008, with a portfolio in hand, I headed straight to London determined to break into the advertising industry. I visited every ad agency there was, meeting with creative directors, copywriters and art directors to secure an internship. These internships paid between £70 and £200 per week, well below minimum wage, so I supplemented my income with street flyering and working as a shop assistant.  

By the end of 2009 I had turned an internship into a full-time position and so I continued my career working at advertising agencies across London. In 2015 I moved to New York City, where I went from being an Art Director to a Creative Director. Eventually, I left my full-time job to become an independent Creative Director, which is what I am today.  

What is your fondest memory from your time at QEGS?  

I joined QEGS for my A levels from Banovallum. And my fondest memories are the friends I made and Charlie Harcombe’s house parties (that’s the wrong answer, isn’t it?).  

What subjects did you study at A-Level?  

I studied French, Religious Studies and Ethics, Textiles and Art.  

Who was the person who inspired you during your time at QEGS? 

I was inspired most by the arts; I loved every class with Mr Hull.  

What has been your biggest achievement?  

My biggest achievement is still to come this summer when I am hosting a panel at The Lions Festival of Creativity in Cannes.  

But my two biggest achievements so far are: creating a social sharing movement across the world with Books on the Underground and Books on the Subway, and most recently in founding We Are Shelance, a collective of some of the world’s best female freelance creatives. 

What advice would you give to a current student at QEGS?  

The path to success isn't straight, and it's okay not to know what you want to do or be. The next chapter is about discovering what you love and where you thrive.  

I pursued my passion for art. Although art is often seen as an alternative career, finding the right path can lead to amazing financial success – more than I ever expected.  

Success isn't defined by passing tests or getting good exam results. It's about passion, persistence, and hard work. If you commit to something, you'll realise you're capable of much more than you thought.