Grafia’s mentorship program2025–2026 This year marks the sixth edition of Grafia’s mentoring program! Designed for Grafia members, the program supports professional development and a sense of community. Participants work in mentor–mentee pairs for six months, from late November until the beginning of summer 2026. This year, the program coaches are Laura Köönikkä and Elsa Ervasti. In their lectures, mentor pairs learn to find creative solutions to support professional growth, provide constructive feedback to each other, and strengthen their courage to set and achieve meaningful goals.Program StructureAt the start of the program, participants attend a kick-off session where mentor pairs receive guidance and tools for a successful mentoring relationship. During the program, there will be two online lectures and a joint interim meeting where all mentor pairs can share their experiences. A final joint meeting will take place in June, offering participants a chance to reflect on what they’ve learned and enjoy a fun gathering together. In addition to these meetings, pairs commit to meeting each other at least 3–4 times at agreed intervals. Meet the Program CoachesLaura Köönikkä, MA – solution-focused work supervisor, certified business coach, and group facilitator for people who experience performance anxiety. She works as a coach and lecturer with creative professionals in both the private and public sectors. Laura is a certified coach in the neuroscience of change, embraces difficult conversations, and encourages participants to find their best potential through sustainability and courage. Previously, she has worked in leadership and expert roles in arts organisations and international projects. laurakoonikka.com Elsa Ervasti, MA, M.Ed. – presentation and pitching coach who has trained thousands of startups and companies across various industries to pitch their ideas and expertise to both investors and clients. Elsa lectures on effective workplace communication and positive presentation skills during times of professional change. She encourages her trainees to engage in personal and effective interaction in the diverse and dynamic pitch situations of modern work life. elsaervasti.com __Note! If you are participating in the mentorship program from outside of the Helsinki metropolitan area, you qualify for travel aid (max. 120 €) according to the least expensive public transportation method. Please note that this does not include HSL tickets. If you have any questions about the mentorship program, please get in touch: anna@grafia.fi Timeline 4–22 September 2025: Mentor applications 2–22 October 2025: Mentee applications 27 November 2025, 15:30–17:45 – Kick-off event (Helsinki) 15 January 2026, 14:00–16:00 – 1st Webinar: “Creativity in Working Life” (online) 19 March 2026, 14:00–16:00 – Interim meeting for all pairs (in-person/online, to be decided based on preferences) 16 April 2026, 14:00–16:00 – 2nd Webinar: “Professional Growth” (online) 4 June 2026, 17:00–20:00 – Closing event and final celebration (Helsinki) Applying to be a mentor (4–22 September 2025) A mentor is a trusted friend who supports the mentee’s professional growth. The program lasts six months, from late November until the beginning of summer 2026. No prior mentoring experience is required, as mentoring is a learning process for the mentor as well. It is enough to be interested in acting as a mentor to another Grafia member. Mentors commit to 3–4 meetings with their mentees, as well as the other program events (see schedule above). A kick-off session for mentor pairs will be held on Tue 27 Nov, 15:30–17:45, providing guidance and tools for a successful mentoring relationship. Mentors also receive a small compensation (400€) after the program ends. Grafia selects the mentors, and mentor pairs are supported by coaches Laura Köönikkä and Elsa Ervasti. The selection emphasizes the mentor’s professional experience and willingness to help. The selection criteria are not published, and feedback on applications cannot be provided. All applications are handled confidentially. Applying to be a mentee (2–22 October 2025) Take on the challenge and apply as a mentee! In the mentoring program, you’ll be paired with your own mentor, and together you’ll work to develop your professional skills. Mentors commit to 3–4 meetings with their mentees. A joint kick-off session for mentor pairs will be held on Tue 27 Nov, 15:30–17:45, in Helsinki, providing guidance and tools for a successful mentoring relationship. As a mentee, you commit to the program’s schedule and content (see the schedule above). In addition, mentees are expected to create 1–2 social media posts/stories/reels during the mentoring program. Get to know the mentors Apply to be a mentee 2–22 October! The selection of mentees is made by Grafia, with mentor pairs supported by coaches Laura Köönikkä and Elsa Ervasti. The selection emphasizes the applicant’s willingness to develop professionally. Selection criteria are not published, and feedback on applications cannot be provided. All applications are handled confidentially.