ɫ to host ‘inspiring’ design and innovation conference
ɫ is set to host an “inspiring” design and innovation conference.
The one-day event, Talk Design 25, which is taking place at Pontio (Cinema) on Friday, April 4, and starts at 9am, will showcase the latest trends and insights from industry leaders.
The University’s Product Design course is bringing together eight distinguished speakers from the design and manufacturing sectors - each offering unique perspectives and expertise.
Speakers include the renowned Welsh marketing expert and Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK, Rory Sutherland. London-born ceramicist, potter and judge on Channel 4 programme The Great Pottery Throw Down, Keith Brymer Jones, will discuss how creativity meets craftsmanship. Chris Vagges,Head of Product Development at Energym, a Birmingham-based smart fitness company that designs and develops electricity-generating gym equipment for domestic and commercial use. He will discuss his passion for problem-solving and user-centric design.
Molly Smith, Senior Human Factors at design agency Kinneir Dufort, applies her expertise to cutting-edge medical devices—from robotic surgical systems to life-saving postpartum haemorrhage solutions. Shelby Ayris, Senior UX/UI designer at product development company Lucid Innovation, will discuss her work.
Ben Martin, Creative Director at Royal Flush Marketing, who will explore why some brands thrive while others fade. Two former ɫ students will also be taking part. Charlie Small, Mechanical Design Engineer at Rolls Royce, will share insights on career growth, breaking into new industries, and building self-confidence. Also, after a decade in design Mikyle Swindells who launched The Design Lab Ltd, a Brighton-based agency specialising in product development, prototyping and sustainability.
Peredur Williams, lecturer in Product Design at ɫ said, “At ɫ we are dedicated to fostering creativity and providing students with the tools they need to thrive in the design industry.
“Our Product Design degree show and Talk Design 2025 conference is a phenomenal platform for our students to exhibit their talent and for attendees to gain valuable insights from an array of industry leaders.
“We have got a hugely exciting line up this year. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn from experts in their field.
“Previous attendees have hailed Talk Design as ‘inspiring’ as well as ‘the best event of its kind in Wales and beyond’ and it’s easy to see why.
“Talk Design 25 is not just a conference - it's an opportunity for creative professionals, manufacturers, change-makers, and aspiring designers to immerse themselves in cutting-edge design philosophy.”
Tickets for 'Talk Design 25' are available now from the Pontio website:
Admission is free for pupils, students, and teachers and is £10 for ɫ alumni. The early bird price is £35.
Course Instagram: @productdesignbangor