B!G Mentor Interview: Roisin Lafferty, Kingston Lafferty Design
We’re lucky to know many inspiring people, and this week we caught up with one of them. Roisin Lafferty is an inspiring and motivational leader, as well as an all-round creative force. She is the founder and Creative Director of Kingston Lafferty Design, and we are proud to have her as a B!G Idea mentor. Read on to hear more about her experience and insights.
Why do you think creative skills are important at second level?
“I believe creative skills are important at every level of life. Unfortunately, creativity is not always encouraged as students move through school, particularly at secondary level. However, creative thinking is fundamental to life and exists in every person. That’s why it’s so important to nurture and develop it from an early age.”
What is mentoring?
“I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors throughout my journey, both formally and informally — people like Louise Phelan, Patrick Lafferty, Bernie Cullinan, and even my mum. For me, mentoring is about having someone you can bounce ideas off. It doesn’t have to be a big, formal process. Sometimes it’s simply asking questions and having someone listen without judgement. It’s also about receiving honest feedback — even when it’s not always what you want to hear.”
What has been the most important aspect of mentoring for you?
“Being asked to mentor was a real privilege. It gave me the opportunity to speak with students and share lessons I’ve learned from working in industry. I focused on asking questions and encouraging students to think more deeply about their ideas and push their thinking further.”
Would you have benefited from The B!G Idea in school?
“When I was in school, creativity wasn’t always encouraged or recognised. Having something like The B!G Idea would have opened my eyes much sooner to the possibilities and opportunities that creative thinking can bring.”
What was your biggest takeaway from mentoring?
“I was genuinely amazed by the students. Their eloquence, intelligence, passion, and creativity were incredible. Their ideas and innovation really stood out. Honestly, I remember thinking I would happily hire many of them as graduates in the future.”
Did you enjoy the mentoring process and feel supported?
“I thoroughly enjoyed the mentoring process. It was a rare treat to exchange ideas with other creatives, especially those outside my own discipline. I would absolutely do it again. I also felt very supported throughout the entire journey with The B!G Idea.”
