Empowering the Next Generation of Designers: Project Osmosis Design Youth Forum 2025
What Was the Design Youth Forum?
The DYF offered an immersive, hands-on experience that introduced students to a wide range of design disciplines—graphic design, industrial design, architecture, multimedia, and fashion. Students participated in workshops, tackled real-world challenges, and received mentorship from seasoned industry professionals.
More than just a career introduction, the forum empowered students to explore their creative voices and envision a future where they could lead and shape the world through design.
Why It Mattered
Founded by Vernon Lockhart, Project Osmosis has long championed the inclusion of underrepresented youth in the design community. The 2025 forum continued this mission by opening doors for students to see themselves as future designers, innovators, and storytellers. It was a powerful reminder that representation, access, and encouragement can change lives.
Event Highlights
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Date: May 16, 2025
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Location: School of Design, University of Illinois Chicago
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Theme: Design Your Future: Empowering the Next Generation of Design Leaders
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Participation: Hundreds of students attended, guided by an incredible team of mentors and volunteers
A Lasting Impact
Students walked away inspired, many for the first time realizing that a future in design was not only possible—it was within reach. The event sparked new passions and laid the foundation for the next generation of design leaders.
