About the Black By Design Program
Are you looking to explore your passion for design? Are you interested in imagining better cities? Black By Design is a multidisciplinary introductory program, dedicated to exposing young and emerging creatives to the Urban Planning, Architecture, and Interior Design sectors.
Understanding the significant underrepresentation of Black creatives in these design fields, we want to empower youth to see themselves as designers, creators and changemakers, bridging the gap between emerging creatives and professional opportunities. Through 10-week workshops helmed by facilitators with storied experience in the design sectors, participants will have the opportunity to develop their creative, professional and personal capacities, with hands-on learning, mentorship, and community-based exploration.
This program offered me something I didn’t know I was searching for—a place to explore the connection between architecture and cultural identity in a way that felt deeply personal and affirming. As a young Black woman from a migrant background, I’ve often struggled to find spaces that truly reflect who I am. Through storytelling, community, and hands-on assignments, I was able to not only see myself reflected in the experiences of others, but also gain the tools and language to shape my own environments with intention and pride. 10/10 would recommend!
What can I expect?
Creative Workshops
All sessions will be led by Black industry professionals from the worlds of interior design, architecture, and urban planning. These professionals are available to offer guidance and support throughout your time in the program.
Capstone Project and Showcase
Participants will be given lessons on and access to digital softwares such as SketchUp, Lumion, AutoCAD, and Adobe Suite to conceptualize and present original design projects. These projects will be included in a public or semi-public exhibition at the end of the program.
Studio Visits and Field Trips
It’s important to get out and get inspired, so you understand what you’re working towards. We plan engaging, immersive trips to various design firms, galleries, and cultural spaces to expose our participants to professional environments.
Portfolio and Skill Building
Each discipline will have practical sessions in subjects such as drafting, space planning, mood-boarding, digital design tools, and presentation skills, so you can develop hard skills that will be relevant to the design industry.
Guest Talks and Panel Discussions
What better way to learn than from the best? We host insightful conversations with Black industry leaders on topics such as identity, career pathways, and wellness in creative professions. Past guest speakers have included Robin Fraser, Lee Clarke, David Oleson, Camille Mitchell, Michael London, Abigail Moriah, and Kameka Nicholson.
Career Impact
Our goal is to bridge the gap between emerging Black creatives and professional or academic opportunities in design and architecture. We’ve had participants enrol in postsecondary schools for architecture and interior design, and many others who have applied the skills they’ve learned on jobs in art direction, film production, and 3D spatial work.
Past Facilitators
Odudu Umoessien
Odudu Umoessien is an internationally-trained architectural designer, artist and sculptor with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. He has over five years of experience working on low to medium scale commercial projects: temples, museums, theatres, and luxury residential homes. With an interest in light, form, spirituality and community, he explores the potential and possibility of architecture through illustrations, film, sculpture, and immersive experiences.
Ebony Walsh
Ebony Walsh is an Interior and Strategic Designer innovating at the intersection of the built environment, technology, and business. Ebony’s passion for knowledge exchange fuels her commitment to circular mentorship, as she wholeheartedly believes in its power to foster continuous growth and mutual inspiration.
Kayla Wallace
Kayla Wallace is a Junior Interior Designer with over 5 years of experience in both residential and commercial design. While completing her Bachelor in Environmental Design at OCAD University, she was able to get experience in design through freelancing and internships at varying design firms
How do I apply?
Applications are currently open for Black By Design: From the Ground Up. We’re looking for Black youth aged 18-29 who have an interest in architecture, creativity, and cultural expression, and are able to commit to the 10-week program. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, October 1st at 11:59pm.
Learn More & ApplyBlack By Design is made possible through the support of the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism:
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