We knew our first merch design workshop had to be more than just a regular creative exercise.

We wanted our youths to see their ideas come alive – from concept to product, from sketch to story. That’s where Adia, a freelance graphic designer, came in.

Across a series of three workshops, Adia guided our young designers through every stage of the creative process. She taught them how to refine their ideas, think about design functionally and translate drawings into print-ready artwork. Together, they explored storytelling through visuals – turning individual imagination into collective expression.

Each team approached the challenge differently. One group leaned into bold, streetwear-inspired designs for the shirts; another created Pebbie, our now-beloved rock mascot, along with his cheeky sidekicks.

Others took on the challenge of distilling Kita’s visual language into badges and pins that captured our symbols, shapes and spirit. Through Adia’s mentorship, these ideas didn’t just stay on paper – they became real products our youths could wear and be proud of.

Adia’s impact didn’t stop here. Beyond the workshops, she also helped Kita articulate who we are visually through our Brand Passport – a guide that defines our colours, typography and tone. This toolkit became a bridge between creativity and consistency, giving both staff and youths a shared foundation to tell Kita’s story confidently.

For Adia, it was more than a design job. “It was a joy being with you all these last few sessions,” she shared with our youths, “you should be proud of your effort and innovation – I’m such a fan of your brilliant minds.”

This collaboration with Adia showed us what happens when creative professionals and youths work hand in hand: mentorship becomes co-creation, and every design becomes a story of growth.