Join us for an insightful panel discussion, from talented local designers who’ve navigated their creative careers not just through their technical skills but leaning into soft skills such as conflict resolution, communication, and emotional intelligence.

Panelists will share their real-world experiences and advice through lively conversation. We invite attendees to join into the discussion and submit questions ahead of time here.

Whether you’re a student, freelancer, or seasoned creative, you’ll leave with valuable takeaways on how to stand out and thrive in a competitive industry.

There will be an opportunity for networking and refreshments at the begining and the end of the event.

Meet the Panelists:

Lauren Allkushi-Zawie, Stella Bea design

Lauren is a Cleveland-based graphic designer, the founder of Stella Bea Design Co., and serves as Vice President of AIGA Cleveland. With more than six years of professional experience, she specializes in visual communication and strategic design that help organizations clearly communicate their brand message. More recently, she has participated in speaking engagements focused on professional relationships, emphasizing how strong verbal communication skills are just as essential as visual communication when building lasting creative partnerships.

Jenna Barrows, Progressive

Jenna is a Senior UX Designer at Progressive, where she leads the end-to-end customer experience for the Life Insurance team, a new product created within the company’s growth incubator. In addition to her work on the digital application journey, Jenna is passionate about creating well-defined processes and systems. She has developed and maintained the life insurance team’s holistic design system. She also enjoys mentoring fellow designers, supporting their growth through collaboration, feedback, and shared learning.

Ben Mirka, Underdogs 

Ben is Creative Director and Chief Creative Officer at Underdogs, a Cleveland-based design and content agency. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in Digital Communication and Media, Benjamin has built his career at the intersection of branding, storytelling, and culture. In 2023, he had the opportunity to design for the Cleveland Guardians, an experience that broadened his perspective on collaboration, leadership, and creative structure within a major sports organization.

Frank Ragone, ThenDesign Architecture

Award-winning Visual Designer and creative professional for 7 years, with a BFA in Graphic Design out of the Cleveland Institute of Art. Frank is currently a Visual Designer at ThenDesign Architecture where he specializes in brand development, environmental graphic design and wayfinding. His previous experiences have taken him to Austin, Texas where he's worked in banking, technology, architecture and healthcare.