Chicago, Illinois
May 15, 2026
More than 100 high school students from across the Chicago area will participate in the annual Project Osmosis event, the Design Youth Forum (DYF). Hosted by the University of Illinois Chicago School of Design, the event will take place on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 845 W. Harrison St. Chicago.
During this dynamic one-day workshop, students will engage in a pre-professional career discovery experience designed for minority youth interested in the creative industries. Activities will include student-selected design workshops, presentations, complimentary lunch, T-shirts, and swag bags.
For more than 20 years, the nonprofit organization Project Osmosis has provided design mentorship and creative technology opportunities for students interested in careers in architecture, fashion, interior, graphic, and industrial design.
The Project Osmosis Design Youth Forum (DYF) is more than an event—it is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of creative leaders. This year’s theme, “Designing Good AI: Empowering Tomorrow,”
encourages students to explore how design and technology can work together to create a more thoughtful, ethical, and innovative future.
Through hands-on workshops, inspiring conversations, and collaboration with industry professionals, participants will discover how design can shape emerging technologies and positively impact communities.
THE FUTURE IS NOT SOMETHING WE WAIT FOR; IT IS SOMETHING WE DESIGN.
Design with empathy.
Design with responsibility.
Design with purpose.
Designing Good AI. Empowering Tomorrow.
“We are grateful to the University of Illinois Chicago School of Design, the Illinois Arts Council, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Pete’s Market, and Jason’s Deli for their partnership and support in hosting this event.
“There are not enough creative programs for youth in Chicago—especially on the South and West sides of the city—that truly address the creative needs of young people,” said Vernon Lockhart. “One of the things that helps a person develop is being seen and realizing they have the potential to make an impact.”
The mission of Project Osmosis is to create programs and initiatives that identify, develop, and support young people from minority communities with demonstrated abilities and skills in the applied arts. Through these
efforts, the organization seeks to increase the influence and presence of art and design professionals from minority communities while expanding the reach of artistic expression for all people.
Join us as we spark creativity, empower young innovators, and imagine a better future through design and AI.
Media Contact—
Angela Williams / 773-368-6724
Project Osmosis: Design Education Initiative
1740 W 99th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
312.505.4920
projectosmosis.org
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