“You don't get many chances to democratize an industry,” said Kawasaki

Apr 17, 2014 13:23 GMT  ·  By
Guy Kawasaki (Chief Evangelist), Melanie Perkins (CEO) and Cliff Obrecht (COO)
   Guy Kawasaki (Chief Evangelist), Melanie Perkins (CEO) and Cliff Obrecht (COO)

Former Chief Evangelist of Apple Guy Kawasaki has taken up a stint at Canva, an online graphic design platform with ties to the social media, as well as an eye for presentations, posters, blog graphics, and invitations.

An author of several books about Apple and a pretty good visionary himself, Kawasaki will be tasked with developing an evangelism program for Canva and help the company reach wider audiences across the globe.

Mr. Kawasaki will also become an investor in the company, according to the announcement.

Mr. Kawasaki said, “Macintosh democratized computers; Google democratized information; and eBay democratized commerce. In the same way, Canva democratizes design. You don't get many chances to democratize an industry, so I seized the opportunity to work for Canva.”

“I was an early adopter of Canva and used it to create graphics for my social media posts and email newsletters. After making contact with Canva's founders, I was enchanted by the company's vision and desire to change the world,” he added.

Canva CEO Melanie Perkins is extremely honored to have him aboard, saying, “It's an amazing endorsement of the Canva vision to have someone of his caliber join our team.”

The graphic design company also hired Mr. Kawasaki’s social-media architect, Peg Fitzpatrick. She will become Canva's Head of Social Strategy with the mission to add “social-media firepower.”