Grafia Mentoring: Growth Through Peer Support

The mentorship program supports Grafia members in developing as professionals and in enforcing a sense of community. Alina Korotovskaia and Babi Brasileiro found unique opportunity to connect and grow together.

Alina Korotovskaia, Mentee:

At certain periods of life, one might feel lost and discouraged, unable to find direction. Standing at the turning point, I applied for the Grafia mentoring program. My aim was to boost my portfolio, get professional advice on my recently assembled portfolio website. Babi, my brilliant mentor, whose presence was both comforting and inspiring from the start, helped me immensely.

Together, Babi and I reviewed my portfolio and my application letter, shared thoughts on professional path and self-presentation. Our discussions covered both professional and personal aspects of our life, and after our meetings I always felt like lost gears finally finding their right place and starting to move. One of the most valuable aspects of this mentoring experience was the combination of practical advice and soft support. Babi not only provided guidance on developing my portfolio – she also offered encouragement and inspiration. This holistic approach helped me understand how to highlight my strengths and confidently present my skills and experience.

I learned that professional development is not always about gaining more practical skills but also about understanding oneself. Only when we understand what we truly value are we able to make impactful designs and advocate for the solutions we create. Working with the mentor helped me to gain confidence in presenting myself both professionally and personally, which made me realise that I am ready to reopen my company Aapa Design.

I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Grafia mentoring and highly recommend applying for the program if you have a chance. It offers the opportunity to make new friends, learn through casual conversations, and gain inspiration for your endeavours. Mentoring is more than just help in professional development – it is an empowering experience that fosters personal growth and lasting confidence.

Babi Brasileiro, Mentor:

Throughout my career, I’ve found that having peers around to guide me during moments of decision or uncertainty has been crucial to my professional growth. Sometimes, all you need is a little push to achieve something great, and the support from colleagues—who often become friends—can be that final 1% of energy you need to get the job done.

Design, as a profession, involves many moments of introspection and creation that often happen in isolation—whether in your mind, a notebook, or on a computer. However, as social beings, we thrive on interaction and collaboration. That’s why I found Grafia’s Mentoring Project so incredible; it serves as a platform to enable these essential exchanges. As a professional, you don’t always keep track of what you know or what you don’t; life flows, you work, and you grow. 

This program helped me realize that the support I received throughout my career could be passed on to assist young professionals. Every exchange is valuable for both sides. You learn something new about the other person and yourself, and when you share knowledge that changes someone’s perspective, you’re reminded of its true value. There’s nothing more rewarding than growing together. 

Working with Alina was a highlight—seeing her flourish while being so open to the process, yet extremely dedicated and engaged. The mutual exchange of ideas and finding direction together is something you don’t always experience in everyday work life.

I encourage everyone to seek out new connections, especially those where interaction is mutual and not driven by personal gain. These relationships foster growth and provide you with invaluable life tools. The mentoring journey offers a unique opportunity for both mentors and mentees to connect and grow together. I highly recommend joining the program.