Big Updates and New Initiatives at the Guild of Working Designers

By Hannah Baker

Dear Reader,

It’s been a transformative year for the Guild of Working Designers. We set out with a vision: to shape a community that’s driven by its members and creates real value for working designers.

From co-creating our purpose and values with the community to building a core team, we’ve come a long way—and we’re only getting started!

Here’s a quick look at everything that’s led us to this point, along with exciting updates that lay the foundation for what’s coming next.

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🌟 Meet Our Core Team - Leading the Way Forward

Our core team has been working hard behind the scenes to bring our vision to life. Ellie Rastian, Maximilian Schmidt, Teddy Prosser, Andrea Tovar, Filipe Monteiro, and Golnaz Abedini are the powerhouse behind the Guild’s initiatives.

This team is dedicated to welcoming, educating, and connecting our community through new projects, events, and resources.

You’ll hear more from them in the coming months as they roll out exciting programs designed just for you!

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🌐 New Community Website - Your Hub for All Things Guild

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Guild’s new website! This site is now the central place for:

• Project updates like the Shortcuts Podcast and other community initiatives.
• Details on our values and vision—see what makes the Guild unique and what we stand for.
• Ways to get involved and make a difference in this growing community.

👉 Check out the Guild of Working Designers Website here​

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🎙️ Introducing "Shortcuts" - The Guild’s First Podcast!

The Guild’s first podcast, "Shortcuts," is here!

Co-hosted by Teddy and Max, this series brings you real conversations on working in design, from the highs to the challenges and everything in between.

I’m excited to share that I was the first guest, discussing the experience of designing with dyslexia—a powerful and personal look at inclusivity in design.

Listen on Spotify, with more platforms coming soon. If you’re skilled in graphics or editing and want to contribute, we’d love to hear from you—just hit reply!

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📚 Design Dossier - A New Way to Explore Design Topics

Launching in full in 2025, Design Dossier is one of our latest initiatives to help you stay ahead of design trends and insights.

Each month, our community will vote on a topic to explore together, and we’ll curate a set of resources—including articles, videos, and podcasts—to dive deep into that theme.

The highlight will be an interactive monthly session where we’ll share takeaways, discuss practical applications, and explore new ideas together.

Design Dossier sessions will have initial test runs by the end of Jan. 2025, so stay tuned for opportunities to join these pilot sessions!

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💬 Design Venting Sessions - Real Talk for Real Challenges

Also coming in 2025, Design Venting Sessions are casual, informal sessions where designers can share and discuss their daily challenges, celebrate wins, and explore industry trends together.

It’s a relaxed, supportive space for open conversation, empathy, and camaraderie.

Whether you’re facing creative blocks or celebrating small victories, Design Venting Sessions are here to keep you connected.

Design Venting sessions will have initial test runs by the end of this year, so stay tuned for opportunities to join these pilot sessions!

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Community Spotlight - Favorite Moments from Guild Members

One of the things that makes the Guild so special is the incredible connections and moments we create together. Recently, I asked our community, “What’s been one of your favorite moments or memories in this community so far?” Here’s a glimpse of what they shared:

• “One of my favorite parts of this community has been meeting and connecting with awesome people. I also love the Monday Musing posts—they’re such a fun way to start the week and always give me a fresh perspective on the design world.”
• “I fondly remember the moments when meeting other Guild members in person. Going to Service Design Drinks, attending the UX Camp Europe, or just catching up for after-work drinks have been some of the highlights.”
• “This community has connected me with amazing individuals who have impressive careers and a genuine passion for our work. It has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone by talking to new folks and even organizing events together.”

These stories are just a few of the many experiences that make the Guild what it is—a place to connect, learn, and grow. Thank you to everyone who shared their memories and keeps our community vibrant and inspiring.

The Guild is growing in incredible ways, and we’d love for you to be part of it.

If you’re not yet a member, apply to join the Guild of Working Designers here, and help us shape the future of design together.

Looking forward to seeing what we create together!

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Until next time!

Hannah Baker ​Facilitator & Co-Founder ​The Fountain Institute ​

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