Why did you decide to become a mentor?
Becoming a mentor was a natural extension of my own journey as a designer. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by exceptional individuals who shaped my path, and I felt strongly about paying that forward. Mentorship is an incredibly rewarding way to give back to the design community. It allows me to share the knowledge I’ve accumulated through my extensive work, and to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities in the creative field. Initially, I expected mentorship to be a one-way street, but it’s become a symbiotic relationship. I learn just as much from my mentees as they do from me. Whether it’s staying up-to-date with emerging trends or hearing fresh perspectives, being a mentor has made me a better designer and a more empathetic leader. The ability to help someone overcome their creative hurdles and see them grow into their full potential is immensely gratifying. Ultimately, it’s about fostering a community where we can all thrive and succeed together.
How did you get your career start?
My career started with a passion for creativity and a strong foundation in design, which I nurtured through my education in illustration. Early on, I was fortunate to have a few key mentors who believed in my potential and provided valuable guidance. One particularly influential mentor told me to "Take every opportunity as it comes and make the best out of it." This advice stuck with me and became my guiding principle. I applied it to every phase of my career—never hesitating to dive into new challenges and making the most of each opportunity, no matter how big or small. I started by securing an internship in Chicago, and from there, I never stopped. I moved to New York City, Milan, and later, Canada, gaining valuable experience across multiple continents and industries. This mindset has shaped me both as a designer and as a mentor, as I continue to encourage others to have the right eye for opportunity and to take bold steps in their careers.
What do mentees usually come to you for?
Mentees typically come to me seeking guidance on how to build confidence in their design work, clarify their creative direction, and navigate the challenges of advancing in their careers. I provide a structured mentorship experience where we focus on refining their portfolios, building personal brands, and preparing for interviews or client-facing situations. I also help mentees develop soft skills such as communication, self-promotion, and problem-solving, which are crucial for their professional growth. Beyond technical advice, mentees often reach out to me for insights on how to manage work-life balance, handle feedback, and grow into leadership roles. The goal of our sessions is not only to help them level up their design skills but to empower them with the confidence to take on larger responsibilities and make informed decisions about their career paths.
What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?
One of my favorite mentorship stories was with a New York–based designer whose entire team had just been laid off. She was the only one retained, and her company encouraged her to find a design mentor to help her navigate the transition. What started as a space to tackle her creative uncertainties and career apprehensions quickly turned into something transformative. Over the next few months, she gained clarity, grew confident in her skills, and slowly evolved into a design leader within her company. Seeing her step into her own, take charge, and find her voice was incredibly fulfilling. Empowering someone to trust themselves and build confidence—something they’ll carry for life—is one of the most rewarding parts of being a mentor. And of course, every time a mentee messages me saying, “Hey, I got the job!” or “I got that promotion!”—oh, what a heavenly feeling. It never gets old.
What are you getting out of being a mentor?
Mentoring is incredibly close to my heart—it holds a special place in my life. Every mentee brings a unique energy and perspective that keeps me feeling young, connected, and purposeful. It’s not only a way for me to grow professionally but also an opportunity to reflect on my own journey and see the impact I can have on others. Mentoring gives me a profound sense of purpose, reminding me of my role in the design community and the importance of giving back. It's one of the most rewarding parts of my career, inspiring me to be a better version of myself every day.