Being a cross-cultural and transcontinental design thinking instructor, I always derive huge value from venturing into new surroundings that provide new points of view. My latest masterclass at JD Institute of Fashion Technology in India was just that — an effervescent mix of concepts, energy, and a common passion for innovative thinking.

At IED Milano, where I teach design thinking, we practice seeing the world with empathy, observation, and imagination. At JD, I was surprised to discover that the students already had those values instilled before hearing them with a name. They were willing to engage, question, and co-create at will, truly enriching the experience.

The workshop was all about tools of design thinking for apps — empathising with humans, developing real problems, ideating boldly, and prototyping quickly. But aside from methodology, we also discussed the mindset behind it: design as a tool for change, and every designer is capable of creating a better future.

One of the things I wanted to get across in the session was the importance of understanding one’s own identity as a designer. Design is not about making things look pretty or solving issues — it’s about communicating who you are, what you’re passionate about, and using your imagination to make the world a better place. The JD students connected with this message. Their passion, curiosity, and questions were a reflection of a generation willing to use design for a cause.

The mood at JD was warm and inviting. The staff were incredibly warm and inviting, and the students — warm, inquiring, and open-minded — made the session an actual exchange of ideas. It’s always motivating to see how design school can bring people together across cultures and unite us around our passion for designing more significant experiences and systems.

I leave the JD Institute inspired and hopeful. The next wave of designers is not only talented — they’re socially conscious, thoughtful, and ready to lead with empathy. I’m excited to see the innovations they’ll bring into the world.