Hosted by the Hasso Plattner d–school Afrika*, participants will be introduced to a methodology, or mindset, that facilitates innovative solutions to problems and operates at the interface of human values, business, and technology. The Design Thinking approach will encourage participants to engage with the convening programme and their practice from a practice-led and solutions-based perspective. […]
Presented by Design Week South Africa, Mpho Vackier, founder of TheUrbanative, will join Eloise Thompson, Creative Director of Studiolandt, for a conversation exploring what The Shape of Us means to them. Drawing on their respective practices, the session will reflect on our diverse cultural heritage and how these perspectives inform the way we design for the future. Moderated by
Morning Sessions: The Shape of Us Read More »
From grants to investment and innovative methodologies, experts will guide participants on accessing sustainable growth opportunities in the craft and design sectors. The session will examine ways to protect and future-proof businesses through insurance and risk management, while encouraging new approaches to funding and self-sufficiency. Attendees will be invited to explore alternative pathways to build
Funding the Future: Grants, Investment, and Sustainable Pathways Read More »
A forward-looking discussion on how material choices and design processes respond to the ecological realities of our time and shape planetary futures. As climate pressures and resource constraints reshape how we make and produce, designers are rethinking sourcing, production, and value. This session explores regenerative and circular approaches, ethical supply networks, and the opportunities of
The Impact Era: Designing for a Changing Planet Read More »
Discover how businesses can scale across markets by leveraging international partnerships and collaborations. Topics covered will include pricing strategies, customer segmentation, and export readiness, alongside insights on growing brands globally, reaching new audiences, and navigating cross-border opportunities to expand sustainably.
Market Routes and Momentum: Growing Your Business Locally & Globally Read More »
Waste and found material weaving makeshop facilitated by the Imbali Visual Literacy Project Imbali uses innovative, applied learning approaches to teach art, design, and critical thinking to youth, the unemployed, and people with disabilities. The organisation also supports the professional development of creative arts teachers, particularly in underserved communities. Guided by the belief that art
Beginner embroidery makeshop facilitated by the Imbali Visual Literacy Project Imbali uses innovative, applied learning approaches to teach art, design, and critical thinking to youth, the unemployed, and people with disabilities. The organisation also supports the professional development of creative arts teachers, particularly in underserved communities. Guided by the belief that art and creativity are
MakeShop: Embroidery Read More »
The Fabric of a Place by Frances van Hasselt will be screened during lunch. Fabrics literally weave a story about the history of a place. The very reason as to why they exist; the materials used, who made them and how, documents a moment of time. It is on us to educate the future designer
On the pulse of today’s digital landscape, young entrepreneurs share how they’re leveraging online platforms, social media, and digital communities to grow their brands, expand their global reach, drive sales, and build lasting connections. This session highlights their experiences and strategies, from content creation and SEO to marketplace engagement and community-building, showing how to turn
On the Pulse: Young Entrepreneurs Online Read More »
Join Msoziswa Sophie Mahlangu, master Nzunza Ndebele artist, and Shado Twala, Chairperson of the Craft & Design Institute, for a reflective closing conversation celebrating Sophie Mahlangu’s extraordinary career and the growing legacy of her life’s work.
Imibono: Tracing Sophie Mahlangu’s Journey Read More »
