Graphic Communications Management alumna launches self-awareness journal
Graphic Communications Management (GCM) alum Diondra Filicetti has taken a leap into the world of self-improvement and personal development with the launch of a transformative journal titled "Illuminate Your True Self", a printed collection of prompts, exercises, and reflections that encourage deep introspection and growth by the journal users.
“GCM was instrumental in my post-grad journey,” she explained. “The incredible part of GCM is that there are many other subjects infused with your graphic arts education, which include entrepreneurship, professional communication, accounting, business, and marketing.”
Diondra Filicetti, Graphic Communications Management alumna, with her book “Illuminate Your True Self.”
Her artistic background from GCM shines through in the journal's aesthetically pleasing design, making self-discovery a pleasant experience.
“GCM equipped me with many skills and tools that come in handy daily in my work. I truly feel as though I have had such a rich educational experience, with foundational knowledge across key subjects in addition to specialized skills in design and print and publishing,” she expressed. “As an entrepreneur, this can save you a lot of effort in creating your brand's visual identity, including your logo, website, and marketing materials.”
Journey to journaling
After graduating from Graphic Communications Management in 2016, Filicetti earned a diploma in Small Business Operations from Sheridan College in 2018 and will complete studies in Adult Workplace Learning at George Brown College in 2024.
Filicetti attributed the foundational knowledge acquired in the GCM program essential for her entrepreneurial endeavors and the creation of “IIluminate Your True Self.”
The journal's pages are carefully curated with thought-provoking questions, challenges, and exercises to prompt readers to explore their learning styles, communication patterns, values, and aspirations. Designed to foster self-awareness and provide clarity in one’s personal and professional journey, Filicetti crafted the journal to serve as a powerful tool to help others unlock their true potential and find their authentic paths.
"I wanted to create something that would help my fellow alumni navigate the twists and turns of life after graduation," Filicetti explained.
Filicetti designed The journal entirely, thanks to her artistic knowledge from the Graphic Communications Management program.
Self-awareness quizzes help users to identify key motivations in their personal and professional lives.
Identity, self-discovery and community
Filicetti’s passion for helping others with their personal and professional journeys began with her own self-reflection on identity.
“As a mixed race (Jamaican & Italian) woman growing up in Ontario, I was confronted with having to define my identity from a very young age,” she explained. “I was constantly questioned about what it was like to be biracial, what race I identified with more, and who I considered myself to be. This constant examination, while uncomfortable and frustrating, encouraged a lot of introspection.”
Filicetti continues to be an active Toronto Metropolitan University community member, volunteering within the school since she was an undergraduate student. She was recently awarded the G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Award in June 2023, recognized for her continued involvement in the TMU community, and has been invited to speak to incoming first-year students during orientation.
Chancellor Fukakusa (left) presenting Diondra Filicetti (right) with the G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer Award in June 2023.
“GCM and The Creative School have been so supportive of the work that I have been doing with regard to my workshops at Driven By... Co.,” said Filicetti.
Her entrepreneurship journey of her personal and professional development business Driven By...Co (external link) has facilitated programs and workshops at secondary schools throughout Peel Region and conducted workshops for companies, nonprofit organizations and post-secondary schools.
“Illuminate Your True Self” guides users to identify key areas for growth, such as enhancing communication skills, fostering better relationships, harnessing motivation, or pursuing professional development.
“You will become equipped to embark on a transformative journey towards becoming the best version of yourself,” Filicetti explained. “A small change in the direction of your life as a result of a little self-awareness can lead to truly incredible things.”
“Illuminate Your True Self” is now available on Amazon.ca (external link) and drivenbyco.com (external link)
Check out http://drivenbyco.com/ (external link, opens in new window) and @drivenbyco on Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and X.
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
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