Share your knowledge with emerging designers in 2026

The RGD invites senior creative professionals to participate in initiatives for emerging designers that help boost their confidence, provide career guidance and understand the the industry.

Mentorship

RGD Programs include One-on-One Mentorship, Project-Based Mentorship and Certification Mentorship.

One-on-One Mentorship takes place over nine months pairing Mentors with 1–3 Associate RGD Mentees for 6–8 one-hour sessions. Mentors support participants by offering feedback, sharing career experiences and helping them navigate challenges as they prepare to enter or advance within the industry. The RGD provides suggested topics for each session, while Mentors and Mentees decide on areas of focus based on goals and interests. The deadline to sign up as a Mentor for the Winter Round (Janary-May) is December 5.

Project-based Mentorship

 

Apply to be a Mentor

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Virtual Career Week

From February 2 to 7, 2026, the RGD will present its Winter Virtual Career Week, offering emerging designers the opportunity to book 30-minute online sessions for portfolio reviews or speed mentoring with experienced creative leaders.

Senior professionals are invited to offer a minimum of three and a maximum of six sessions throughout the week. Participants will be featured on the event post and included in the booking form where registrants select reviewers based on interests and availability. The RGD will support coordination and scheduling with reviewees.

Deadline to sign up: January 5

Apply to be a Reviewer

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2026 Student Awards judging

The RGD is also seeking Judges for the 2026 Student Awards, a national program that recognizes outstanding work from post-secondary design students across Canada. Judges review submissions, evaluate design thinking and provide constructive feedback that helps shape the next generation of creative professionals.

Judges are provided:

• Evaluation criteria
• Access to submitted work through the judging platform
• Clear timelines and expectations

Participation offers a meaningful way to contribute to emerging talent, stay connected to student work across disciplines and support excellence in Canadian design education. Details and sign-up information are provided in the judging confirmation email.

Apply to be a Judge

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Benefits of participating

Individuals who participate in any of these Programs will receive:

• Recognition on the RGD website
• Social media graphics to promote involvement
• Listing under Contributions to their RGD Member Profile

Participation strengthens the design community and supports the development of new voices, perspectives and professional pathways.