Business Spotlight: Meet Sevilay, Illustrator and Graphic Designer

Can you tell us about yourself and your business?

I'm Sevilay; I moved to the UK from Turkey about two years ago; I live and work in Bristol. I came here with a Turkish Businessperson Visa type (ECAA), so I work as a self-employed through my company. I studied law in Turkey and worked as a lawyer for about five years. However, since I did not feel happy in this field, I also took graphic design training in 2018 and tried to improve my skills. When I first came to the UK, I established my company to provide legal consultancy services; a year later, believing I could create job opportunities, I added graphic design as a business line. While I continue to provide legal consultancy services, I also provide services in design.

How did you find out about ACH and How did ACH help you with your business?

I had the opportunity to meet ACH through my friend at a Christmas Market I attended. We discussed my business here and they said they would happily support me. Bristol is an amazing city for those interested in and involved in the arts. But you realise how important the local network is, especially when trying to find a job opportunity in graphic design. And, of course, the language barrier forces you to strengthen this network. ACH supports me a lot in expanding my network. They introduce me to people who may be related to my work and offer the opportunity to explain myself and my work. In addition, by participating in the craft fairs they organise, I observe which of my designs attract attention and have the opportunity to develop new products. This is my first time working as self-employed, and it can sometimes be challenging so it's great to have someone else's support and motivation for the business you do! First of all, I am grateful to ACH for not making me feel alone in my work.

How is your business doing now?

I am happy with the way my business is going. In the first year, I had already developed a network for my legal consultancy service. Since I am providing consultancy in Turkish law, I do not get into the language barrier much, that's why I feel comfortable in this area. But I'm still in the development phase in the design field, and I don't feel like I've reached my target yet. The most important thing I've learned while developing my own business is to be patient and keep learning. Now I am improving my design skills and making my designs visible by reaching as many people as possible and I'm pleased with the feedback I've received!

What are your goals going forward with your business?

My biggest goal is to achieve the success I have reached in legal consultancy with my design work. Working in the field of design and improving my skills makes me very happy. And in the future, my objective is to be able to focus only on that. My short-term goal is to draw illustrations for a children's book. If I get a job like this, I will feel very motivated in the design field!

Any advice for people thinking of setting up a business?

Setting up your own business can often be challenging. First of all, it is essential to be psychologically ready for this. Afterwards, before starting your own business, I think it is important to do market research and meet people who do this business to get information about the process. Unfortunately, doing a job well is sometimes not enough; it is also very important to be able to market your job. For this reason, I recommend that they first develop themselves in marketing and get advice from an expert on cost calculations and tax. Most importantly, do not let people scare you and reduce your motivation! It's not easy but being your own boss and managing your time is excellent!

In one sentence, how would you describe the business support you received from ACH?

ACH is like a professional version of the support you get from your family. It provides you with the support you need in a friendly way that suits you best!

If you want to take a look at Sevilay's portfolio, you can visit her website.