Interview with Yasmine Vatere, Mentor in the 30 Under 30 Program
Yasmine Vatere
Can you tell us about your current role and the path that led you there?
I am Head of Branding and Marketing at Getty in Los Angeles, where I oversee branding and marketing across the institution and its projects. My path was not entirely linear, I first studied International Business law in Paris before shifting to an MBA in advertising. I began my career in advertising and digital publishing, but over time, I felt drawn to the cultural sector. I wanted to use my skills in a more meaningful context, which is what eventually led me to Getty, where I have now been for nine years.
What experience from your career continues to guide you today?
The common thread in my career is global thinking and strategy. It is not something you learn from books, it comes from experience. Living and studying in different countries shapes how you connect ideas across fields.
“What I love about this organisation (CTA) is that it helps connect the dots on a deeper level and connect people from all over the world in the cultural field who are trying to reach beyond borders and build bridges.”
What motivated you to become a mentor in the 30 Under 30 program?
I strongly believe in building bridges between cultures and in cultural diplomacy as a form of soft power. In a world shaped by political tensions, culture plays an important role in connecting people.
I also became a mentor because I never had one myself and wanted to offer that support. The international exchange, learning from different perspectives, is incredibly rewarding.
What themes came up most often during the mentorship?
Guidance, clarity, and support. Rather than telling my mentee what to do, we focused on conversations to identify challenges and opportunities. My role was to support her thinking and help shape direction.
One of the most rewarding moments was seeing an idea we discussed become a real project.
The mentorship also created accountability. Knowing you will meet every month helps keep momentum and move projects forward.
What do young professionals need the most today?
Support! As you move forward in your career, it is easy to forget where you started. It is important to make space for younger voices, especially in larger settings where they may feel hesitant to speak. They bring valuable perspectives and fresh ideas.
What advice would you give to young professionals today?
Keep an open mind and trust your instinct; one decision can shape your path.
Do not be afraid to travel, it opens up new perspectives and opportunities.
What you study does not define your entire career, and it is always possible to start again.
Any final thoughts on the mentorship program?
I encourage colleagues across cultural institutions to give the program a chance. The commitment is only one hour a month, and it can make a real difference for young professionals in the industry.
