Arlaya Worthen (she, her, hers) - Design Mentor
Traveler, Entrepreneur, and Foodie
Hello there! As a Design Mentor at the Apple Developer Academy, Arlaya, I find immense joy in sharing my knowledge about design principles, concepts, and creative thinking. In a world that's constantly evolving due to technology, I believe it's essential to equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate this dynamic landscape.
Being a black woman creator, I'm particularly passionate about immersing myself in environments that foster change, especially for young women and children who share my background. It's a way for me to contribute positively to their journeys.
Before joining the academy, I was a college student at Michigan State University, where I had the privilege of attending the iOS Design lab, a smaller-scale version of the Apple Developer Academy. During my time there, I honed my ability to execute design processes effectively, learned the art of crafting compelling presentations, and gained a deep appreciation for the significance of healthy team dynamics.
In addition to my role at the Apple Developer Academy I hold a B.A. degree in Experience Architecture from Michigan State University. When I'm not immersed in the world of design and mentoring, you can find me being a cool/fun mom , exploring local Detroit art and networking events, embarking on culinary adventures at new restaurants (with the occasional TikTok review!), tackling freelance design projects, and nurturing various entrepreneurial endeavors.
Feel free to reach out if you'd like to connect or collaborate—it's all part of my mission to make a positive impact and embrace life's exciting opportunities!
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What would your fellow mentors say your greatest strengths are?
Personally: my fellow mentors/colleagues would say that I’m best dressed often (:
Professionally: “You really know your design concepts!”
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If you were to offer students one piece of advice as they start their journey at the Academy, what would it be?
Show up as the person you want to be in the future! Remember every impression you make is a lasting one.
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Have you always wanted to work in tech? What is your personal history with tech?
I have always wanted to work in a tech driven environment in either fashion or medical. The “Computer Whiz” that’s what my grandma used to call me. I was 7 years old when I began my journey into the tech world and design was my primal focus. I began by designing and editing pictures, making small riveting graphics, to building websites, and learning to code in high school. Once I started to mature more through high school, I realized I had the passion to design for people with their experiences in mind. This passion has landed me where I am today, working in the field of UX/UI design.
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What was your experience with coding, tech, iOS, or entrepreneurship before the Academy?
My experience with entrepreneurship is far and wide! I started my first business (alive essential.com) in 2019. I now have a freelance design and fashion business, and art socialite business.
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What made you want to be a mentor? What are you most excited about?
Being a design mentor most resonated with the phase in my life I’m currently in. I’m freshly immersed in the world from being a student learning user experience/design and well experienced when it comes to advising others. I wanted to be able to at the same time teach and guide others to give them intentional creating literacy. I want to be the reason learners are able to explain every reason they implemented any aspect into their creations.
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Where are you from and where do you live now?
I wanted to be a mentor, because I enjoy co-learning! I love encouraging others and being a resources to others - I want to see everyone at the academy accomplish their goals. I’m excited to see growth, I love watching seeds harvest into a beautiful blossoms.
I’m from Louisiana and I now live in Detroit.