Conceptual Organization Model
Overall
Challenge: Interrogate the subject of diversity in design education, identifying its effects on the industry, its leadership, and representation in various media and environments.
How can a variety of voices be represented, various stories be told, and multiple cultures be represented respectfully? Critically challenge the space being examined, develop new ideas, be disruptive.
I am focusing on the lack of racially diverse mentorship in design education and the importance of mentorship to those looking to pursue a design career. According to Zippia, white teachers make up 69.2% of graphic design professors while Black teachers have never gone above 7.81% (2013). There was also a 2-year study that showed the connection between race and gender matched role models and academic achievement. This clearly shows us the importance of mirror mentorship, and how it can be used to help students pursue their passions in the design field.
Audience
I aim to affect BIPOC students of every ethnicity who might be unsure of their passion as well as adults who can inspire them.
These students aim to go to design school and get scholarships but might not have the resources they need readily available.
It’s important that there is a relationship between the teacher and student, and that these relationships have deeper connections when the students can relate to the teacher.
They can relate their similar upbringings and experiences closer than a student of color and a white teacher.
I also aim to connect with BIPOC designers who want to inspire students to pursue their passions but might be unsure of how to begin.
Adults need to become part of the healing system and help guide these students.
Goals
We need to create spaces to allow these racially diverse adults to connect to these kids and give them resources to help them succeed.
Connection between the BIPOC youth and mentorship/teaching can help the students in many ways such as:
- Programs that help young people build their craft
- Diverse designers becoming inspired to seek out young people
- Help applying for scholarships and understanding financial aid
- Assistance applying to colleges/jobs
- Expanding the stories of racially diverse people who might feel stuck and unable to join the field
- Opportunities will be created for students to receive resources and assistance
- Provide help building portfolios
I want young people to be able to see themselves in future positions.
The Mirror Model will focus on giving students of color opportunities to work with older students and career professionals who mirror how they look and their past experiences.
Visual explaination of the logo representing the organization model
Poster
The 18x24 poster would be sent to design agencies to present at their company, specifically designers of color. The poster is also perforated to separate into 9x12 flyers for a more accessible and portable option.
Letter
A letter will also accompany the poster when sent to companies to help intrigue employers and employees.
