As we reflect on another inspiring year of SHINE, we’re reminded that mentorship is more than professional development. It’s about building relationships, sharing experiences, and growing alongside one another. AIGA DC’s flagship mentorship program brings together emerging designers and experienced creative professionals for four months of one-on-one mentorship, creative exploration, and community. Guided by this year’s theme, Frames of Growth, the 2026 cohort embraced every conversation, challenge, and milestone as an opportunity to learn, gain confidence, and expand their perspective. Whether you’re looking for guidance at the start of your design journey or hoping to give back by mentoring the next generation, SHINE is a community where growth is shared, connections are lasting, and everyone has something to learn.
Program details
Kickoff: Mentors and mentees came together to meet their mentorship pairs, establish career goals, and create a plan for the four-month program. The session introduced participants to the cohort, outlined expectations, and provided the foundation for regular one-on-one meetings, professional development, and community events throughout SHINE.
Midpoint Review: At the halfway point, the cohort gathered at BLN24 to reflect on their progress and receive feedback from mentors and peers. Through conversations centered onIdea, Impact, Craft, and Voice, participants shared their work, discussed challenges, and identified next steps to support their continued growth.
Presentation Day: SHINE concluded with Presentation Day, where mentees delivered three-minute presentations reflecting on their mentorship journey and creative development. The event celebrated the progress made throughout the program while showcasing the impact of mentorship, community, and shared learning. Participants left with stronger professional networks, greater confidence, and, for many, new career opportunities. Check out our final presentation!
Cohort 2026
Mentors Bryan Clark Brittany Fritz Chelsae Blackman Akanshya Upadhyay Ana Farnham Ariana Rodriguez-Gitler Courtney Ray Elizabeth McCormick Fiorella Geedi Howard Smith Marjorie Hollander Natalie Marques Rachel Semenov Rick Heffner Stephanie Schweitzer Thomas Jockin Victoria Brown Ryan Labita
Mentees Abby Tunguia Alexa Hayes Anita Emokpae Anna Sfakiyanudis Bella Gutierrez Chelsea Cohen Daniela Hernandez Delaney Hyde Gabriel André Ramos Genesis Morales Gina Sarti Greg Rieves Jr. Hiro Nishio Iman Adem Jahlen Grant-King Kiara Peterson Kiera Coy Kristen Rutherford Kristin Zhai Mia Hofman Nevaeh Richardson Paris Rosen Ranika Howard Sarah Cowgill Sonu Rose Sunil Vy Doan Zahir Muhammad Zoe Yanpei Li
For information about additional mentorship opportunities, please contact shine@dc.aiga.org.
