In 2019, Form/Design Center launched a pilot project in the form of a mentorship program for designers working in Skåne.

Designers submitted proposals for one or two preferred mentors based in the Öresund region. Form/Design Center acted as an intermediary between mentees and mentors, explored the potential for successful matches, and subsequently initiated contact between them. A limited number of mentor pairs were matched within the framework of the 2019 mentorship program.

The mentorship program ran from 1 May to 31 October 2019 (six months). During this period, mentees and mentors committed to independently meeting for at least three in-person sessions (hosted by the mentor), while also maintaining some ongoing contact via phone or email.

Both mentees and mentors participated in the program without compensation.

Participants 2019–20

The following adepts and mentors are matched for the 2019 program:

  • Pia Högman + Kajsa Willner (Studio Kajsa Willner)
  • Nina & Johan Kappi (Kauppi & Kauppi) + Jonas Lindvall 
  • Erika Norén + Mats Byback (24hr)
  • Rani Leoson Samuelsson (Riot Shapes) + Louise Campbell 
  • Maria Pihlblad (Déjà Vu Design) + Jenny Grettve (Jenny Grettve Studio) 
  • Martin Björnson + Niklas Madsen (Superlab) 

WHY MENTOR?

A mentor is an experienced professional role model who shares their experiences, give you advice and help for your personal and professional development. Through a mentor you can get support, concrete tips, views, encouragement and increased self-confidence.

A mentor is useful wherever you are in your career. Whether you are in the starting blocks of your career, facing a crossroads and considering a new direction, or want to take a new step on the career ladder, a mentor can be very useful. Just sharing thoughts and reflections with an outsider can be invaluable. In addition, you have the chance to get tips and advice from a person who has already walked the path you are walking - someone who has already made mistakes and learned from them.

You as an adept should look for someone who you respect professionally, who has had success in their field and who embodies the professional qualities you work to achieve. A mentor does not have to be a designer himself, but can be a person knowledgeable in, for example, sales, marketing, finance, production or similar areas.