Project North Star

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Designers

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu based peer mentorship network for first responders’ wellness

Key Words

Designers

Sophie Ratto

SUMMARY

Project North Star explores how to build safer, reciprocal mentorship for first responders. I began with an app concept, then reframed the project after interviews first responders (such as law enforcement, EMS, FDNY, Secret Service) and research on peer-support and BJJ. At my dojo, I ran a low-fi prototype where first responders anonymously submitted questions that guided a group conversation about grief, suicide, family and financial stress and coping. Ultimately, the project argues for BJJ dojos as neutral third spaces for honest, off-duty support that complements and strengthens formal wellness programs and peer initiatives.

challenge

Interviews, research, and my dojo prototype revealed that first responders need trusted, politics-free spaces to talk about trauma, stress, and career decisions. Many described losing co-workers to suicide, feeling isolated, and distrusting formal channels tied to rank, promotion, or inner circles. Existing mentorship and peer programs are uneven and often feel risky or performative. This gap creates an opportunity for neutral, off-duty hubs like BJJ dojos where peers can connect with light safeguards and no supervisors in the room.

Outcome

Through my research, interviews, and personal ties to first responders, I saw clearly that structured mentorship is missing. The dojo-based prototype showed that, framed through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, responders are willing to join a workshop that blends training with peer support. Project North Star created space for community, career reflection, and processing grief, addiction, and stress while normalizing vulnerability. My hope is to expand this model to additional dojos so mentees and mentors connect naturally.