A Medway-based illustrator and entrepreneur has been recognised for her creative achievements after winning the Creative Award at the Kent Women in Business Awards on Friday 6 March 2026.
Esther Johnson, 29, from Rainham, is the founder of Designed by Esther, a creative studio specialising in bespoke illustrations for museums, heritage sites and cultural organisations. Her business was launched in 2017 with support from the The King's Trust.
Since then, Esther’s distinctive designs have appeared in gift shops across the UK, with commissions from leading institutions including the Natural History Museum, the House of Commons, Canterbury Cathedral, Bath Abbey, and Historic Environment Scotland. To date, she has worked with more than 60 organisations across the heritage sector.
This latest award recognises Esther’s ongoing contribution to heritage storytelling through design, creating products that bring historic places and stories to life for visitors.
Judges praised her work, saying:
Esther’s creativity is both bold and commercially astute. She transforms ideas into brands that stand out and connect.
The award adds to a growing list of achievements for the Medway creative. In 2024, Esther was named Young Businesswoman of the Year for producing the first ever Medway Activity Book, celebrating the area’s landmarks and history for local families.
In 2023, she also won a national design competition run by Nescafé Azera and The King's Trust, which saw her illustrated coffee tin design sold nationwide.
Looking ahead, Esther is currently developing a new illustrated product range inspired by the life and work of Charles Dickens, the famous author closely connected to Medway. The collection is expected to launch in summer 2026.
Notable Awards:
- 2023 Prince’s Trust x Nescafe Design Coffee Tin winner
- 2024 Kent Young Businesswoman of the Year
- 2026 Kent Women in Business Creative Award
For more information or to work with Ester: https://www.designedbyesther.co.uk
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