The "Fail Forward" ethos encouraged risk-taking, emphasizing the inherently iterative nature of the design process and framing challenges as valuable learning opportunities. The proactive approach nurtured a more resilient and resourceful creative environment. The event brought together leading designers and creatives from around the globe to explore unexpected challenges as avenues for growth. Keynote speeches from Michelle Jafery, Guillaume Crédoz, and Ross Lovegrove inspired attendees to rethink sustainability, embrace bio-inspired design, and view obstacles as stepping stones.
Interactive workshops and exhibitions, including the Isola x Ithra showcase of international design studios and a display of immersive storytelling projects from Ithra's Creative Solutions Residency, further promoted collaboration and innovation.
The Tanween Mega Challenge, collaborating with the Pilgrim Experience Program, produced three winning projects focused on enhancing the Hajj pilgrimage through improved communication, waste management, and pilgrim health monitoring, showcasing the power of design to address real-world issues.
Shahd Alwazani, the Program Lead of Tanween, explained the origins of
this year's slogan “Fail Forward.” She stated, "The theme came from
Tanween's annual focus on a specific idea or theme around design and the
creative design process." This year, the emphasis was on failure, which
she noted can be "uncomfortable for designers to discuss but is a key
player in the design process." Alwazani underlined the importance of
recognizing failure, saying, "Failure is seen as a crucial element in
shaping ideas and creative design thinking, leading to successful
achievements." She highlighted that embracing and celebrating failure
can have a beneficial impact on designers' work.
Regarding the
importance of taking risks, Alwazani asserted that "designers need to be
bold, brave, and willing to take risks." She encouraged designers to
"try multiple times, even if it means failing," as this persistence can
yield achievements, regardless of whether they align perfectly with
initial objectives.
Noura Alzamil, Head of Programs at Ithra, emphasized the factors contributing to Ithra's effective programming. She stated: "We consider both international and local industry needs, bridging the gap for our community." Ithra's approach involves connecting with global festivals and design studios to present pertinent experiences that encourage active engagement.
Alzamil highlighted the significance of youth involvement, noting
that "youth are a significant percentage of the kingdom's population and
are our true investment." She believes that engaging young people early
on helps them connect with content and the industry, fostering their
growth and excellence.
Looking forward, Ithra plans to broaden its reach by "attracting more designers to
join the conversation locally, in the MENA region, and internationally."
The center is also participating in international design weeks to
elevate the dialogue and the visibility of young designers and artists
on global platforms.
Photos courtesy of Ithra