We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Lis Porto and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Grace Lis, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business as a graphic designer was driven by various factors. Firstly, I wanted to prove to myself that it was possible to work as a graphic designer while studying Advertising and Marketing. It was important for me to showcase my skills and demonstrate that I could excel in the field.
Additionally, starting my own business was a way for me to build a portfolio. Creating a strong portfolio is crucial for designers as it allows potential clients and employers to assess my abilities, creativity, and style. By starting my own business, I had the opportunity to work on a variety of design projects such as posters, business cards, and event invitations, which significantly contributed to the development of my portfolio.
Moreover, I recognized that starting a business would give me control over the projects I worked on. As a designer, it can be challenging to find opportunities that align with my interests and creative vision. By establishing my own business, I could selectively choose projects that resonated with me, providing the freedom to pursue my passion and establish my unique design style.
In summary, my thought process behind starting my own business as a graphic designer was motivated by the desire to prove my skills, build a portfolio, and have control over my creative projects.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been an exciting and fulfilling journey. What sets me apart from others is my unwavering passion for the work I do and the constant pursuit of excellence. I am always committed to delivering exceptional results and exceeding my clients’ expectations.
Getting to where I am today professionally has required a lot of effort, dedication, and perseverance. It hasn’t been an easy path, but I believe that challenges are opportunities for growth. I have faced obstacles along the way, such as fierce competition and market uncertainties, but I have managed to overcome them by maintaining a resilient and adaptable mindset.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is the value of staying updated and continuously learning. I have invested in training, courses, and workshops to enhance my skills and stay current with trends and advancements in my field. Additionally, I have learned to value collaboration and building strong relationships with colleagues, partners, and clients.
What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am committed to providing high-quality, creative, and innovative solutions. My goal is to make a difference through my work by delivering impactful and inspiring results. I aspire to be recognized as someone who constantly seeks to push boundaries and deliver exceptional value to my clients.
My story is a combination of determination, resilience, and a passion for my profession. I am excited about future opportunities for growth and collaboration, and I am enthusiastic about continuing to make a difference in the world of work. Being a teacher, I am constantly teaching and learning, and that drives my motivation to excel.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Araraquara, a small city in the interior of São Paulo with limited attractions, I would make sure they have a memorable time. Here’s a week-long itinerary that combines our love for board games, a themed café, and the local cultural space:
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome
Welcome my friend to Araraquara and show them around the city.
Spend the evening at home playing our favorite board games and catching up.
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
Visit SESC, the local cultural space, which always has interesting art exhibitions.
Attend an exhibition or workshop to immerse ourselves in the local arts scene.
Day 3: Harry Potter Inspired Café
Take my friend to the Harry Potter-themed café, where we can enjoy the magical ambiance, take photos, and try out their unique menu inspired by the movies.
Spend the afternoon relaxing, sipping on Butterbeer, and discussing our favorite Harry Potter moments.
Day 4: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
Plan a day trip to nearby attractions, such as a nature reserve or a charming town in the countryside.
Explore the natural beauty of the region, go for a hike, and have a picnic surrounded by scenic landscapes.
Day 5: Game Night with Friends
Invite our friends who share our love for board games to join us for a fun-filled game night at home.
Enjoy friendly competition, laughter, and good company while trying out new board games.
Day 6: Local Cuisine Exploration
Explore local restaurants and eateries to sample traditional dishes from the region.
Indulge in the flavors of São Paulo’s countryside, trying regional delicacies and savoring the local gastronomy.
Day 7: Farewell and Reflection
Spend the last day reflecting on the wonderful time spent together.
Have a leisurely brunch at a cozy café, reminiscing about the week and making plans for future adventures.
Although Araraquara may not have a wide range of attractions, with our love for board games, the Harry Potter-inspired café, and the vibrant art scene at SESC, we can create an enjoyable and unique experience for our visiting friend.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my incredible teachers who have taught me everything I know. Their guidance, knowledge, and support have been instrumental in shaping my skills and shaping my career. I am grateful for their dedication and commitment to helping me grow.
I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my family. Their love, encouragement, and unwavering belief in me have been a constant source of motivation and strength. They have been there for me every step of the way, cheering me on and providing the support I needed to pursue my dreams.
Lastly, I want to give a special shoutout to my amazing husband and my wonderful daughter. They are my daily inspiration, and their presence in my life fuels my determination to work tirelessly. Their love and understanding have been my anchor, allowing me to navigate through the challenges and strive for success.
I am truly grateful for all the individuals who have played a role in my journey, and I recognize that their contributions deserve credit and recognition in my story.
Website: www.gracelis.com
Instagram: @_gracelis
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-lis/
Twitter: @gracelis
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracelisdesigner
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCixDQ15fSwGZn7PTCIpK_IQ