The two students Charlie Vickerstaff and Maryam Kalem have each been selected to produce artwork for two of Booktime’s upcoming titles, an early-career milestone many young creatives spend years working towards.

Booktime is an initiative of the Hindawi Foundation charity, that provides free digital access to a vast library of illustrated, multilingual books through its app and desktop platforms.

From ‘Brief to Publication’ gives students a creative brief, expert guidance, and the chance to pitch to industry, with selected illustrators awarded a paid commission to create a full children’s book for the platforms.

Charlie, 20, from Lichfield, said being chosen had boosted her confidence, she said: “It’s my first time working with a proper client, which is a little daunting, but incredibly exciting. It feels like a real first step in the right direction.”

Maryam, 19, from Yardley Wood, Birmingham, described the experience as “surreal”, adding: “To be chosen among so many talented artists is amazing.

“It’s my first contracted project, and it’s opened my eyes to what’s possible early in our careers.”

Both students say the chance to work with industry has helped strengthen their belief in themselves.

Charlie will illustrate a classic hero and monster tale inspired by Greek mythology. Having long been drawn to fantasy and myth, she said, selecting her project felt instinctive.

“I’ve loved Greek myths since I was quite young. I was really excited when I saw Perseus and Medusa on the list. It was literally the perfect brief. That’s exactly what I’m into.”

Maryam, said she related to her chosen story, Am I Too Messy?

“I was really messy as a child – my mum would say you can still tell from the state of my room – so that’s why I really connected with the story.”

The book follows a bright, imaginative seven-year-old boy who is often told he is “too messy”, until his grandmother reassures him that his creativity and personality are something to embrace.

“We’ve been able to connect with people we wouldn’t normally meet,” said Maryam. “It has encouraged me to take every opportunity to grow.”

Charlie added, “BCU has given us genuine industry experiences. To have my work potentially published worldwide by a credible company is huge.”

Booktime’s founder, Ahmed Hindawi, said emerging illustrators play an important role in shaping the platform’s storytelling.

“We’re building a library of original stories in many languages, and fantastic illustrations are key. Working with students brings new ideas and perspectives, and we’re always excited to see what emerging illustrators can do.”

The project is supported by senior lecturer Helen Wheeler, who works with students to prepare them for careers in the creative industries.

“There is nothing more transformative than watching students step into a live brief; responding to the same pressures, expectations, and standards that shape our industry,” she said.

“Presenting their ideas to industry professionals pushes students to articulate their thinking with purpose and resilience.

“This experience builds portfolios, professional identity, and students begin to see themselves as practising illustrators.”

Booktime is set to roll out its From Brief to Publication assignment across the country, with students at Westminster University in London, the next to take part.

Hindawi Foundation produces free children’s books in multiple languages, commissioning original stories and illustrations each month. The Booktime app and website currently offer books in 10 languages and hope to expand its catalogue to 15 by 2027.