Hear what our participants are saying.
“Each call has been a door to avenues I never knew existed. As a recent high school graduate, I've left each call with my eyes opened and inspired by the guests and attendees who've shared their stories and expertise. If you're a teen looking for a sense of direction, I promise you'll never regret spending an evening at Office Hours.”
Matthew J.
“It’s the lecture series we need as young BIPOC creatives. Real, transparent and relevant conversations. I’m so thankful for this resource.”
Sophie W. C.
“I’ve learned so much in a short span of time. A common theme throughout the sessions was to remain authentically true to your values and individuality. …I was truly moved by having that constant reminder each week from such accomplished speakers with diverse backgrounds.”
Raja M.
“Office Hours has brought fundamental inspiration towards my career aspirations in sustainable design. I am thankful a program like this exists for future innovators."
Quaran A.
“It’s extremely powerful being in conversation with 80+ BIPOC designers each week.”
Danya L.
"I left every session having learned something new and impactful. … A close group of design friends and I would send each other [posts of] the next week's speaker and marvel at how different their path was from the previous week's guest. We'd wait for the reservations to open like waiting for concert tickets to drop.”
Kokeith P.
“For young designers of color like myself, our presence is not self-evident in the design world. Beyond providing proof that we exist, Office Hours has ensured a space where our fears are demystified and our hopes and dreams are clarified.”
Jordan H.
“Candid conversations with honest insight about entering, navigating and making your own way in the design world. Thank you Office Hours for being the BIPOC mentors I've always wished for—the most invaluable resource.”
CoCo T.
"I remember describing to a friend the clarity I felt after a session. So often I find myself entertaining every possible career option, but after an Office Hours call, it feels like I have the right amount of information to approach my career with a more grounded set of intentions. I really appreciate it.”
Darien C.
"Office Hours was so empowering.”
Anam A.
“As young design professionals, it sometimes feels difficult to navigate design career paths when you don't often see people like yourself in those spaces. It was reaffirming to listen to folks who were doing well in their careers and helpful to learn how they achieved their own professional goals. I am grateful that I also met some interesting people through these sessions, which made me feel like I was part of a community afterwards.”
Ella D.
“Whether it’s starting an office, teaching and practicing, or becoming a design journalist, there is plenty to learn from people’s experiences. Seeing them occupy these spaces and roles gives me the reassurance that I can do the same.”
Baïna-Lyssa J.
“Being on an Office Hours call with BIPOC creatives is an extremely powerful experience. I’ve gained so much exposure to various career options, but also a sense of support and belonging in the design industry. Office Hours is a community rooted in shared experience and values that go deeper than just professional interests.”
Yassi K.
“The most important thing Office Hours has taught me is the value of representation. Office Hours has inspired me to be more outspoken in my workplace, and to show myself grace as I navigate through an industry that was not built for me but that I contribute to greatly.”
Rebecca H.
“I learned that being a successful BIPOC designer in the design world can actually happen! It’s possible to make my career work for myself regardless of racial/ gender biases and unequal opportunity.”
Amanda M.
"What I’ve really taken away is a sense of shared purpose and experience, learning that we truly are all here looking out for each other.”
Shaina Y.