At Creative Works, our members are the heart of our workspace. This week, we spotlight Shray, whose journey exemplifies professional dedication balanced with family commitment.
A Founding Member’s Journey
As the founder and Creative Director of Creative Chimps Ltd., Shray Vaidya has built a brand and design consultancy focused on forging meaningful, lasting bonds between brands and the people they serve.
With two decades in the industry, Shray’s approach combines creative strategy with expert design management. He is the strategic partner that company leaders from Hitachi Energy, Condé Nast, Sky, TotalEnergies, and Vogue turn to when they need to communicate their stories effectively. Beyond the corporate world, he lends his skills to propel the missions of social enterprises and NGOs such as Able Child Africa.
As an HSJ Award winner (2022), Shray’s work across branding, graphic design, and motion graphics continues to set a high standard in the creative services field.
Shray’s story with Creative Works began in 2018 when our doors first opened. As was the case for many people, the pandemic brought work and life to a sudden pause. Since then, however, Shray has grown both his business and his family, welcoming his first child. He now embodies the modern professional spirit: a parent building his own corporate branding business. He often works late into the night to dedicate his days to his young son. This juggling act requires understanding, flexibility, and a supportive environment. For Shray, Creative Works provides exactly that.
More Than Just a Desk: The Power of Connection
For a solopreneur, Creative Works offers crucial connections that extend beyond physical space and Wi-Fi. For Shray, these relationships define the value of being here:
“Creative Works’ flexibility and dynamic pace have been invaluable,” he says. “The supportive community and events (such as The Write Club) have opened doors to meaningful connections and new opportunities.”
Shray has collaborated with architects working out of Creative Works, designing their company website and logo, and building strong professional relationships in the process.
Shray appreciates “the resources and opportunities that come from being part of a creative and supportive community,” citing the potential to use Creative Works’ recording facilities for an upcoming client podcast as especially impactful.
Rooted in Walthamstow
As a local business owner, Shray appreciates how Creative Works strengthens its ties to the E17 community. He highlights the collaborations with local businesses as a “great incentive” that encourages members to explore more of what Walthamstow has to offer.
His favourite local haunts include the Colombian coffee shop Hermanos (located downstairs) and the Blackhorse Workshop Cafe for its excellent coffee and food. Inside Creative Works, you’ll often find him at his bay or in the communal kitchen, fuelling up for a productive day.
The Final Word: Why Creative Works?
When asked for one word to describe Creative Works, Shray mentioned two powerful choices: “connection—or perhaps community.”
His final thought on why someone should join? It’s all about the people.
“Great people work here—they are diverse, passionate, and always willing to share their knowledge.
We are incredibly proud to have Shray as part of our community. He is a testament to how passion, professionalism, and a supportive network can come together to build something remarkable.
