Message from Honourable Chair
"Welcome to a vibrant global community where creativity meets collaboration to drive innovation and positive change. As Hon. Chair of the World Design Council (WDC) I am proud to witness the remarkable contributions of our diverse members, united by a shared vision of elevating the field of design. Our initiatives empower professionals with cutting-edge skills, foster young talent through our ‘Future Creative Minds’ program, and shape policies that recognize the transformative power of design. Together, we are not only addressing today’s challenges but also paving the way for a more sustainable, equitable, and inspiring future. Join us in this journey and be part of a movement that is shaping the world through design."
Paula Graham Gazzard
Hon. Chair, WDC
Who We Are ?
The World Design Council (WDC) is a dynamic and diverse global community of design professionals, educators, and innovators, all united by a common vision: to elevate the field of design and harness its potential to create a better world. As a membership organization, WDC is dedicated to fostering the next generation of design leaders and driving the advancement of Design & Design Thinking through robust international collaboration and exchange.
At WDC, we are passionate about empowering design professionals with the future-ready skills they need to navigate and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. We believe in the power of continuous innovation, and our initiatives are designed to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and promote excellence in design. Our community is made up of individuals and organizations from diverse sectors and regions, all contributing their unique perspectives and expertise. This rich tapestry of talent and ideas allows us to tackle complex challenges and pioneer new solutions that are sustainable, equitable, and impactful.
What We Do
At the World Design Council (WDC), our mission is multifaceted, encompassing a broad spectrum of activities designed to elevate the field of design and maximize its positive impact.
Through our comprehensive programs, including accreditations, quality control for creative education, and the development of forward-thinking design curricula, we ensure that our members are always at the cutting edge of the industry. Our influence extends to shaping design education policies for governments, ensuring that the value of design is recognized and integrated at the highest levels.
Whether it's through our 'Future Creative Minds' initiative, which nurtures young talent from school age to meet the demands of the creative economy, or through our extensive network of professionals who benefit from our training resources, networking opportunities, and exclusive events, WDC is committed to supporting and advancing the design profession at every stage.
Here's how we do it:
Empowering Design Professionals:
We offer a range of programs, workshops, and continuous learning initiatives that equip design professionals with cutting-edge skills and knowledge, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements.
Supporting Diverse Stakeholders:
We provide resources and support to individuals, communities, organizations, and governments, helping them leverage design thinking to solve local challenges, drive positive change, and integrate sustainable and equitable solutions into their strategies.
Enhancing Creative Education and Advocacy:
We manage accreditations and quality control for creative education programs, develop design curricula, and advocate for design education policies. We raise awareness about the importance of design thinking and its potential to drive change.
Offering Comprehensive Membership Benefits and Programs:
Our flagship program, ‘Future Creative Minds,’ nurtures young talents. Members enjoy training resources, networking, and exclusive events, fostering a vibrant design community.
Our Goals
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Cultivate a Thriving Global Design Community
We foster connections among design professionals worldwide, creating a vibrant network and developing platforms for sharing ideas and collaborative opportunities.
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Nurture Creative Talent
We implement programs for young students to spark early interest in design and connect emerging designers with experienced mentors for guidance and growth.
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Support Professional Development
We offer industry-relevant training, establish innovation hubs, and promote lifelong learning, providing resources for design professionals at every stage of their career.
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Shape the Future of Design
We lead discussions on emerging trends, conduct research, and advocate for policies that support design's role in addressing global challenges, ensuring design's pivotal role in the future.
Our Values
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Collaboration and Inclusivity
We believe in the power of collective effort and community building, embracing diversity and ensuring all voices are heard and valued within a supportive network.
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Innovation and Excellence
We prioritize pushing boundaries and inspiring creativity while upholding high standards and striving for continuous improvement in all our initiatives and collaborations.
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Sustainability and Equity
We promote environmental responsibility and social equity, advocating for sustainable design practices and solutions that ensure fair access to resources and opportunities for all.
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Empowerment and Growth
We are dedicated to empowering design professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive, fostering continuous innovation and professional development at every career stage.
Governance
Driven by our members and dedicated to their advancement, the WDC operates as a dynamic not-for-profit organization, steadfast in its commitment to constant evolution and enhancement for the betterment of our members and the profession.
Our knowledgeable and experienced approach allows us to provide outstanding service, support and value for practicing designers.
A Board of Trustees govern the organization, it primarily consists of practicing members and the Company Secretary / Operations Manager. This is a team of industry experts with extensive knowledge and experience.