We had an amazing time at the 2026 Project Osmosis Design Youth Forum (DYF), empowering the next generation of creatives—see the video and event details to experience the energy, innovation, and impact firsthand!
Special thanks to our partners at UIC Design and our sponsors, The Richard and Jean Coin Family Foundation, Illinois Arts Council, and Pete’s Market, for helping make this incredible experience possible.
What Was the 2026 Design Youth Forum?
The 2026 Project Osmosis Design Youth Forum (DYF) was an immersive, hands-on experience designed to introduce Chicago youth to a wide range of creative disciplines including graphic design, UI/UX design, industrial design, architecture, multimedia, animation, fashion, and emerging technologies such as AI in design.
Students participated in collaborative workshops, explored real-world creative challenges, and received mentorship from professional designers, educators, and industry leaders. Through interactive learning experiences, students gained exposure to both traditional and future-forward design practices while building confidence in their creative abilities.
More than just a career exploration event, DYF empowered students to discover their voices, embrace innovation, and envision themselves as future leaders shaping culture, technology, and their communities through design.
Why It Mattered
Founded by Vernon Lockhart, Project Osmosis continues its mission of increasing access, representation, and opportunity within the design industry for underrepresented youth across Chicago.
The 2026 forum reinforced the importance of creativity, mentorship, and exposure by providing students with direct access to professional environments, creative role models, and pathways into design education and careers. The event highlighted how design can serve as a powerful tool for storytelling, innovation, problem-solving, and community impact.
Event Highlights
- Date: May 15, 2026
- Location: UIC School of Design
- Theme: Designing Good AI: Empowering Tomorrow
- Participation: Students from schools across Chicago participated alongside an incredible network of instructors, mentors, volunteers, and creative professionals
- Experiences Included: Hands-on workshops, portfolio-building activities, collaborative design challenges, technology demonstrations, and mentorship sessions
A Lasting Impact
Students left the 2026 Design Youth Forum inspired, empowered, and energized about their futures. For many, it was the first time they experienced a college-level design environment or saw themselves reflected within the creative industry.
The event sparked curiosity, built confidence, and opened doors to future opportunities in art, design, technology, and innovation. DYF continues to plant the seeds for the next generation of designers, storytellers, and changemakers who will shape a more inclusive and creative future.
