BATHANDWA NGWENDU IS ANNOUNCED AS MC FOR FUTURE TALKS 2024


We are excited to announce that Bathandwa Ngwendu, a multi-disciplinary visionary, storyteller, and director celebrated for his unique narrative approach, will be the MC for the upcoming Future Talks at Decorex. Renowned for his role as the creator and host of @maaknplan_hq, Ngwendu has distinguished himself in the creative industry by engaging audiences with content that deeply resonates. His expertise and dynamic presence promise to elevate Future Talks, a series of discussions dedicated to exploring the potent role of design in shaping our future.

Image Credit: WL_Bathandwa_Emmarentia_2023

Can you share a bold prediction about the future of design that might surprise us?

I believe that the future of design will draw its inspiration from Africa, where it all began. Our continent's perspective will increasingly influence global design, shaping how the world views creativity and innovation. Ultimately, everything in our journey circles back to our roots.

 

How will design redefine everyday life in the next decade?

Good design surrounds us, enriched by groundbreaking technological advancements. Over the next decade, design will significantly impact our lives, driven by the increasing interest and creativity of young people in the field.

 

What do you believe is the single most critical action designers can take today to foster a more sustainable and circular future?

It's crucial for designers to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strengthening connections between self-taught and formally educated designers can lead to significant breakthroughs in sustainability. Sharing ideas and working together paves the way for a sustainable future in design.

 

It's crucial for designers to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strengthening connections between self-taught and formally educated designers can lead to significant breakthroughs in sustainability.

How do you see the intersection of digital innovation and traditional design shaping the future of creativity?

The blend of digital innovation and traditional design is key to expanding creative horizons. It offers designers a larger platform to share ideas and connect with research that enhances their work

 

What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring design entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in the industry?

Firstly, knowing yourself is crucial. Creating from an understanding of your origins gives you a unique and powerful perspective that enriches your story.

Secondly, find a design practice that you can be wholeheartedly devoted to. One that you are willing to do for free. Lastly, discover how your design practice can positively impact humanity.

 

What's one actionable insight you believe every attendee should walk away with from the Future Talks series?

An open mind. An open heart. A eagerness to learn and share.

 

 



Thursday 6 June 2024

10:30  

 Bielle Bellingham

12:00

 Steve Smith with Bianca Shapiro, Tashma Kritzinger, James Beattie  and Jasper Eales

13:00

 SAMSUNG

14:00

 Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis together with Roland Postma,     Sindile Mavundla,  Jacques van Embden and Benjamin Kollenberg 

 

Friday 7 June 2024

11:00  

Anja Joubert

12:00

Crystal Birch

13:00

Gavin Mikey Collins, Sindiso Khumalo and Sumendra Chetty

14:00

Megan Noel, Tshepo Sealetsa, Walter Train, Tanisha Neill and Mpho Vackier

15:00

Megan Hesse

15:30

Bielle Bellingham

Saturday 8 June 2024

11:00 

Kara Furter, Charl Edwards, Renee Rossouw and Lucie De Moyencourt

12:00

Steve Smith, Adriaan Louw, Andrea Kleinloog, Candice Lawrence and Bonolo Chepape

13:00

Leanne Porter

14:00

Jackie May, Stella Hertantyo, Anita Hlazo and Kiera Crowe Pettersson

15:00

Denislav Marinov

16:00

Bathandwa Ngwendu, Duncan MacLennan, Haneem Christian, Ziyaad Samsodien, Mikhailia Petersen, Dada Khanyisa, Jakob Lipman and Imran Mohamed

Sunday 9 June 2024

11:00  

Laduma Ngxokolo and Bathandwa Ngwendu

12:00

Frans Dekker

13:00

Sumendra Chetty and Cyril Naicker

14:00

Heath Nash

15:00

Esethu Cenga

Talks schedule is subject to change


Secure your spot for the incredible Future Talks lineup