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NY Product Design Awards Jury

The minds
behind the
recognition.

Meet the international jury evaluating the ideas and craftsmanship behind exceptional product design.

Meet the Jury

The Grand Jury

The expertise behind
every evaluation.

Jurors are selected for their professional experience, credibility, and availability. Explore their backgrounds and the perspectives they bring to product design.

Seung Keun Kim

Industrial DesignerNeutra Studio

United States

Ram Nikhil Dodda

Head of Product ManagementAmazon

United States

Tao Chen and Jade Lee

Founder and Co-FounderDesignRe-explore

China

Abhijeet Bais

Data Science Solution LeadElevance Health

United States

Sajud E.

Data Analyst/Fullstack DeveloperConsultadd INC

United States

Bhanu Gurugubelli

AVP intelligent process automation infrastructure Lead Chubb Insurance

United States

Xiaobi Pan

Lead DesignerAmazon

United States

Ekaterina Elizarova

OwnerElizarova Design Studio

Russia

Yafei Zhang

Founder and PrincipalOakdale Design Studio LLC

United States

Vargov Anton

CEOVargov Design

Russia

Ivan Sipilov

Head Of Platform DesignCitadel

United States

Jill Shah

Experiential DesignerFuture Colossal

United States

Bingyi Liu

Senior UX designerEli Lilly (Via New Era Tech)

United States

Soyeon Park

Creative DirectorBlancsom

South Korea

Clair Sun

Lead product designerAWS, Amazon

United States

Khaled Elnems

Q.C. & Industrial Product DesignerPARSONS Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc.

United Arab Emirates

Fang He

Senior product designerRoku, Inc

United States

Nikith Joshua DSouza

Senior Product DesignerAccolade

United States

Yongzun Wu

UX/UI Designer and Design CuratorSamsung

China

Asbjoerk Stanly Mogensen (Brian Hoehl)

Chief Executive Officer and Design DirectorBikedezign

Netherlands

Bret Recor

Founder and Creative DirectorBox Clever

United States

Samuel Chuffart

Global Design DirectorIcona Design Group

Italy

Joon Kwon

Chief Executive Officer and Co-founderLR Seoul

South Korea

Oswaldo Sa

Group Creative DirectorVMLYR Commerce NY

United States

Daniel Montiel

Founder and OwnerGitanos

Costa Rica

Alexandre Collares

Creative Art DirectorOgilvy Australia

Australia

Elham Mirzapour

Head of DesignArena Design Studio

Iran

Renato Barreto

Integrated Associate Creative DirectorMullenLowe

United States

Pancho Gonzalez

Co-founder and Chief Creative OfficerInbrax

Chile

Fernando Felicio dos Santos de Carvalho

Assistant Professor of DesignSan Francisco State University

United States

Vasil Velchev

Media & Product Life Cycle ManagerEurope, Ideal Standard International NV

Bulgaria

Niko Kapa

DirectorArchitect and Industrial Designer, Studio Niko Kapa

United Arab Emirates

Alessandro Sciortino

Chief Creative OfficerTraditional and Digital Advertising Expert, McCann Worldgroup

Italy

Angel Iskrev

Co-Founder and Creative Directorproof.

Bulgaria

Abhishek Patel

CEOAbhishek Patel Environ Design Inc

Canada

Daisuke Nagatomo

Founder and Associate ProfessorMisoSoupDesign

Japan

Jae Leong

Judging Committee ChairpersonInternational Awards Associate (IAA)

Malaysia

Jiaru Lin

Head of DesignAmaffi

United States

Arvin Maleki

Senior Industrial DesignerFuturedge Design Studio

Canada

Zhou Wen Jun

Founder and Design Director524 STUDIO ® / NGISED.DESIGN ® / Zhou Wen Jun ® Design

China

Deepti Kshirsagar

Partner and Chief Design StrategistTCT Branding

India

The judging process

A clear path.
A considered decision.

From submission to recognition, the focus stays on the design and the work behind it.

01

Present your work

Submit your design with images and a clear explanation of its purpose, development, and features.

02

Blind evaluation

The jury evaluates the submitted work through blind judging, assessing each design on its own merits.

03

Criteria-based scoring

Jurors consider four published criteria and score entries on a 100-point scale.

04

Recognition

Results determine the level of recognition. A category may have multiple winners or no winners.

Judging & Criteria

Good design.
Considered
from every angle.

Entries are evaluated through blind judging, with each design assessed on its own merits against four judging criteria. Jurors score the work on a 100-point scale.

Explore the Awards

Form

The visual and artistic quality of the design, including how its form is resolved.

Creativity & Innovation

The strength of the idea and its use of creative or innovative concepts.

Finishing & Functionality

Product quality, usability, safety, and ease of maintenance.

Impact

The benefits the design brings to people and their environment.

Judging, explained

Questions about judging.

Have a question? Contact Us
What does blind judging mean?

Blind judging keeps the evaluation focused on the submitted design rather than the identity of its entrant. Present the work clearly through your images and supporting description.

How are jurors selected?

The NY Product Design Awards selects jurors based on professional experience, credibility, and availability. Their profiles provide more detail about their work and expertise.

Can jurors evaluate their own work?

No. Jurors may submit their own work to the competition, but they may not judge their own entries.

How are winning levels determined?

Gold recognizes entries with an average score of 85–100, and Silver recognizes scores of 60–84. Product Design of the Year and Product Designer of the Year are the highest honors. See the awards page for full details.

Jury Nominations

Help recognize
what comes next.

Bring your experience to the conversation. Put yourself forward for consideration or nominate a colleague whose perspective deserves a place on the panel.

Submit a Jury Nomination
Nominations are reviewed for panel consideration.

Enter the NY Product Design Awards

Your design.
Its next chapter.

Begin Your EntryExplore Categories
Seung Keun Kim

Seung Keun Kim

Industrial Designer, Neutra Studio

United States

Biography

Seung Keun Kim is an industrial designer with over five years of experience driving product innovation across consumer electronics, beauty technology, and home appliances.

He is currently a contract industrial designer at Neutra Studio, where he continues to develop products with a focus on clarity, precision, and user-centered innovation. Previously, he worked at the international design consultancy Indeed Innovation, where he contributed to over 15 projects spanning multiple industries. Earlier in his career, he interned at SharkNinja as part of the Industrial Design team, supporting the development of vacuum cleaners that later launched in global markets.

Seung Keun has designed more than 30 products from concept through production, with 8 recognized by international awards. His design approach emphasizes intuitive interaction, purposeful CMF, and refined industrial aesthetics that bridge technology with everyday life.

Ram Nikhil Dodda

Ram Nikhil Dodda

Head of Product Management, Amazon

United States

Biography

Ram Nikhil Dodda is an engineer by education and has built multiple consumer hardware products for Amazon, where strong design language and customer experience was primary criteria. These products have been granted patents and are 4* rated best sellers on Amazon.

In 2018 and 2019, he was the global go-to-market lead for e-reader category for Amazon. This role required him to understand customer preferences from over 18 countries and work with product development to design next generation e-Readers. As the go-to-market lead, Dodda launched 3 new Kindle e-Reader devices that are all rated 4.5+ stars on Amazon for the device design, quality and durability.

Most recently, he built Ring Intercom – a plug and play smart home device that enables remote access management for apartment dwellers globally. The product was launched in 2022 and received 10 awards at launch for product design, aesthetics and in-app UX.

Tao Chen and Jade Lee

Tao Chen and Jade Lee

Founder and Co-Founder, DesignRe-explore

China

Biography

Tao Chen and Jade Lee are the founders of DesignRe-explore, bringing over a decade of extensive experience in the fields of architecture and interior design, along with proficiency in brand strategy, public relations, and marketing planning. iawards, under DesignRe-explore, serves as its design competition platform. It has assisted more than 300 leading figures from architectural design institutions in participating in top international design competitions, earning over 2,000 honors.

The platform is dedicated to building a global interactive and collaborative space for designers, focusing on showcasing and promoting uniquely innovative design works. Its goal is to connect outstanding professionals worldwide in real estate development, architectural and interior design, and creative aesthetics, providing recognition and opportunities for industry elites and emerging talents who demonstrate innovative spirit, forward-thinking vision, and artistic creativity.

Its influence extends through a network of over a thousand media partners, forming a comprehensive media matrix that covers art, design, real estate, news, culture, and entertainment, significantly expanding its reach and impact within the design community.

Abhijeet Bais

Abhijeet Bais

Data Science Solution Lead, Elevance Health

United States

Biography

Abhijeet Singh Bais distinguishes himself in the data-driven landscape by showcasing remarkable talent in harnessing the latent potential residing within data, spanning various industries.

Among his notable accomplishments is his involvement in the transformation of the Palm Beach Hotel in Dubai, a project in which he creatively tackled stone crushing challenges, despite his lack of prior construction experience.

Furthermore, he demonstrated his proficiency in utilizing data and artificial intelligence to develop a remote automotive invoice system. This seemingly minor yet highly impactful contribution played a pivotal role in streamlining processes and significantly contributed to the successful realization of the Palm Beach Hotel project. His versatile skills underscore the profound impact of data expertise across a wide array of sectors. Bais is highly dedicated to leveraging data-driven solutions to overcome challenges and drive innovation across diverse industries, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Sajud E.

Sajud E.

Data Analyst/Fullstack Developer, Consultadd INC

United States

Biography

Sajud Hamza Elinjulliparambil, a senior software engineer at Fama Technologies, a pioneer in background screening solutions based in Los Angeles, USA, is among the people striving to make the digital space safer for users. A Master's degree holder in Information Systems from Pace University, Elinjulliparambil specializes in data analytics, machine learning, and the automation of manual processes, particularly in background checks. As a highly skilled full-stack developer, Elinjulliparambil leverages cutting-edge technologies to analyze complex patterns within social media data. His mission is to predict potential threats in various settings and reshape how we assess and mitigate risks, ultimately ensuring safety in workplaces and communities. With a staggering 4.9 billion active users globally today, the social media background screening industry has witnessed unprecedented growth. Consequently, 91% of employers rely on social media to screen potential candidates, highlighting this industry's immense impact on employment opportunities. Elinjulliparambil champions the transformative potential of social media background screening. "Information at our fingertips should be leveraged for the safety of all, he says. "Social media background screening can be a powerful tool to make our workplaces and other spaces safer. His work as a senior software engineer, nothing short of exceptional, combines data analytics and machine learning to develop algorithms. These algorithms analyze social media data patterns to identify potential troublemakers, prevent security breaches, and foster safer environments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Elinjulliparambil addressed the challenges faced by remote workers. Recognizing the potential mental stress that could arise from the isolation and the risks of returning to workspaces, he ensured these transitions were as safe as possible. His invaluable contribution enhanced workplace safety during the challenging period. Elinjulliparambil's technological prowess propels the industry's transformation. Through his innovative solutions, he identifies red flags and develops robust safety measures and risk mitigation strategies using data analytics and machine learning. He envisions a future where his expertise and Fama Technologies lead in various sectors, including schools, offices, and membership programs, not just social media checks. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Sajud Hamza Elinjulliparambil is a true hero, dedicated to harnessing technology for the greater good. His commitment to fostering safe and secure environments through social media background screening profoundly impacts society. As we look to the future, his expertise promises a brighter, safer world for all. His Fama Technologies offers a range of background screening products, from simple checks to comprehensive 360 web checks, covering platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Google articles. The company, trusted by renowned organizations such as HireRight and Spencer Stuart, is gaining recognition in the industry. Under Elinjulliparambil's visionary leadership, Fama Technologies aims to remain an industry leader in social media background checks. It seeks to expand into other sectors, further enhancing safety and security for everyone. Its impact on workplace safety is undeniable, and its commitment to innovation promises a safer future.

Bhanu Gurugubelli

Bhanu Gurugubelli

AVP intelligent process automation infrastructure Lead , Chubb Insurance

United States

Biography

Bhanu Prakash Gurugubelli actively works in order to revolutionize the digital transformation with automation, decreasing processing times for claims, submissions, underwriting, all the while reducing costs and increasing cost efficiency. During hurricane Ida in 2021, Bhanu and his team were able to provide quick quotes and ingest new policies into the system, resulting in claims automations to process over 5000 claims a day. What Bhanu does is not something that only influences a small portion of people, but it may have global effects, if not national. Being such a key figure in the insurance industry, Bhanu is instrumental in developing these key technologies that can revolutionize the way that insurance claims and policies are handled with Chubb Insurance and together, they are setting a new benchmark for how supportive and efficient insurance is. Gone are the days of outdated policies or delayed responses and payouts. With automation being the leading force in insurance, everyone should expect to see much more sophistication in the insurance industry in the coming years and solidifying its presence in society.

Xiaobi Pan

Xiaobi Pan

Lead Designer, Amazon

United States

Biography

Xiaobi (Iris) Pan is a Lead Designer at Amazon and a globally recognized pioneer in Emerging Technology Design, known for shaping innovative, user-centered experiences at the forefront of digital innovation.

Currently a Lead Designer at Amazon, she leverages technologies such as Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence to reimagine the consumer experience with a focus on both business impact and social good. She is the creator of a sound-interactive installation experienced by over one million participants, an app dedicated to planting 100 million trees by 2025, and a portfolio of industry-leading, next-generation products and immersive experiences.

She is widely regarded as an expert in emerging technology design, bringing a rare blend of strategic vision, technical fluency, and creative leadership to her work. With a strong track record of translating complex innovations into intuitive, human-centered experiences, she continues to influence industry standards and inspire best practices across the global design and technology community.

Ekaterina Elizarova

Ekaterina Elizarova

Owner, Elizarova Design Studio

Russia

Biography

Ekaterina Elizarova is an international designer, winner of the world's leading awards, including Red Dot, A'Design, Outstanding Property Award London and many others.

Ekaterina Elizarova is the first Russian product designer in the Metaverse.

In 2008, Ekaterina founded her own studio, which develops unique author's collections and interiors.

Ekaterina is the first designer in Russia invited to create collections of world-famous brands: Smania, Preciosa, Urban Fabric Rugs, Matlight Milano, Asko, Capital Collection, Junior Monarch and many others. The design by Ekaterina Elizarova is presented annually at exhibitions around the world from Italy and France to the USA and the UK. Designer of the Year (Elle Decoration Best of a Year Awards). Ekaterina has been awarded many prestigious international awards, including the Red Dot, A’ Design Award, the First All-Russian Award "For a special contribution to the development of design in Russia", the Eurasian Prize and others.

She works at the intersection of design and art. Ekaterina is the only representative of Russia selected by the Dutch Global Arts Affair Foundation to participate in the exhibition "Design Objects as Objects of Art", within the framework of the 57th Venice The Biennale.

Yafei Zhang

Yafei Zhang

Founder and Principal, Oakdale Design Studio LLC

United States

Biography

Yafei Zhang, AIA, LEED AP, is a licensed New Jersey architect and founder of Oakdale Design Studio LLC with over a decade of experience leading residential, corporate interiors and mixed-use projects from concept through construction.

Yafei’s expertise spans the full project lifecycle, from feasibility and design development to construction and post-occupancy evaluation. She leads multidisciplinary consultant teams to deliver high-performance, sustainable interiors for leading corporate clients, including Meta, ensuring projects meet design, budget, and schedule goals.

Her notable projects include Miami Edgeworth, Meta 50 Hudson Yards, the Bund Fosun Center, and the University of Michigan Center for Innovation, reflecting her ability to turn complex requirements into cohesive, high-performing spaces. With strong expertise in Revit and BIM-driven workflows, Yafei drives project efficiency through data-informed coordination and delivery. She also serves as National Education Lead (North America) and Regional Lead (New York) for Women in BIM, advocating for leadership diversity and innovation across the AEC industry.

Vargov Anton

Vargov Anton

CEO, Vargov Design

Russia

Biography

Vargov Anton, the founder, CEO, and visionary designer behind the international brand Vargov®Design, renowned for its innovative approach to custom lighting and decorative compositions.

Vargov®Design is a global leader in designing, producing, and selling bespoke lighting and decorative compositions. His team crafts innovative lighting solutions that merge artistic vision with advanced technology, transforming spaces with unparalleled creativity. His company pushes boundaries by exploring innovative materials, forms, and technologies to craft truly distinctive products.

Vargov Anton's expertise in lighting and decorative design is evident through his role as a juror for multiple prestigious awards, including IAA’s very own MUSE Design Awards, NY Product Design Awards, Rome Design Awards, French Design Awards, TITAN Property Awards and Noble World Hotel Awards. His contributions have earned him widespread respect and recognition, showcasing the value of his work within the industry. His innovative approach continues to inspire and set benchmarks in design.

Ivan Sipilov

Ivan Sipilov

Head Of Platform Design, Citadel

United States

Biography

Ivan Sipilov is a highly accomplished designer whose unique background in math and art has shaped his ability to create complex systems that enhance user experiences across various industries, with a particular focus on finance.

Over the past decade, Ivan has worked on globally impactful projects, collaborating with industry-leading professionals to push the boundaries of digital product design. As the Head of Design at Citadel, the world's leading hedge fund, Ivan has been instrumental in integrating advanced UX principles that drive efficiency and performance in high-impact financial projects.

Alongside his role at Citadel, Ivan founded NannyServices.ca, connecting over 300,000 families with trusted caregivers. As co-founder of June Homes, his design work helped secure a $140M investment to streamline rentals. Ivan’s influence spans the global design community, with award-winning work, thought leadership in UX Collective, and a Dribbble portfolio with over 8 million views. His dedication to meaningful causes includes creating the Teddy Food app to support homeless animals in shelters.

Jill Shah

Jill Shah

Experiential Designer, Future Colossal

United States

Biography

Jill Shah is an Architect and Experiential Designer, currently serving as a Senior Production Designer at Future Colossal. With over seven years of multidisciplinary experience, her work spans the intersection of architecture, technology, and immersive design.

Her work merges spatial design with code and computation, challenging how people perceive and interact with built environments. Through this approach, she explores new dimensions of experience and engagement within physical and digital spaces.

Her expertise lies in creating interactive and immersive experiences that fuse artistry with innovation. Through thoughtful spatial design and precise execution, she develops environments that captivate audiences and evoke a strong emotional and sensory response.

Bingyi Liu

Bingyi Liu

Senior UX designer, Eli Lilly (Via New Era Tech)

United States

Biography

Bingyi Liu, a forward-thinking designer at Eli Lilly (via New Era Tech), is dedicated to transforming complexity into engaging, human-centered experiences.

Her career spans impactful work with Aptiv, YouTube, and The Coca-Cola Company, where she delivered solutions that connected with diverse audiences worldwide. At New Era Technology, she leads innovative initiatives for Eli Lilly, drawing on her expertise in research, strategy, and design to guide projects from vision to execution.

Bingyi brings creativity, empathy, and technical expertise together with a deep knowledge of product ecosystems. Beyond design execution, she excels at bridging the gap between business objectives and user expectations, ensuring that every solution is both impactful and sustainable. Her approach combines a strategic mindset with a sensitivity to cultural and social context, allowing her to craft experiences that are not only functional and intuitive but also forward-looking and adaptable in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Soyeon Park

Soyeon Park

Creative Director, Blancsom

South Korea

Biography

Soyeon Park is a Creative Director specializing in fashion retail strategy, brand development, and integrated creative direction. She currently leads creative strategy at Blancsom, a U.S.-based premium boutique platform, where she oversees brand positioning, editorial direction, visual merchandising, and content development across a curated portfolio of global designer brands.

Prior to this role, she served as Creative Director of Greenest, a Seoul-based fashion brand recognized for its modular and sustainable design approach. She played a central role in establishing the brand’s identity from inception, leading product development, collection architecture, and overall creative direction, contributing to its early-stage growth and international expansion.

Her work is defined by the integration of creative direction with strategic brand development, bridging design execution with commercial performance. Through her leadership, she has developed structured creative systems that align product, visual identity, and retail positioning, establishing scalable frameworks for contemporary fashion brands.

Clair Sun

Clair Sun

Lead product designer, AWS, Amazon

United States

Biography

As a Senior AI/UX Designer at Amazon Web Services, Clair Sun leads design efforts across major AI and Generative AI initiatives, redefining how enterprise users engage with intelligent systems.

Prior to joining Amazon Web Services, she served as a Senior Product Designer at C3.ai, where she helped launch over 50 enterprise AI products and applications across industries such as energy, manufacturing, and finance. She is also the co-author of AIverse, a global AI design pattern library used by hundreds of companies and thousands of designers to create responsible, human-centered AI experiences.

Clair offers a distinctive viewpoint on the impact of AI and Generative AI in product design and user experience andis eager to contribute as a juror, helping to shape meaningful discussions and recognize exceptional innovation in intelligent products.

Khaled Elnems

Khaled Elnems

Q.C. & Industrial Product Designer, PARSONS Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc.

United Arab Emirates

Biography

Khaled Elnems, a born and Abu Dhabi-based R&D Innovations Q.C., possesses vast expertise as a jury member on the Committee for International Engineering Invention & Innovation Exhibitions.

Furthermore, he serves as a Co-founder and Head of Delegation for International Innovations Exhibitions in Egypt and the U.A.E, advocating for young inventors and representing them in local and international events.

With a strong focus on supporting women and young marginalized inventors, he actively fosters collaboration, helping them gain international recognition and success. Highly knowledgeable in his field, he is regarded as an expert in innovation development and mentorship, guiding emerging talents to realize their full potential on a global stage.

Fang He

Fang He

Senior product designer, Roku, Inc

United States

Biography

Fang He is a Senior Product Designer with a decade of experience driving innovation for global powerhouses, including Visa and Roku. A specialist in enterprise B2B SaaS, complex workflow architecture, and AI-empowered product solutions, Fang is an expert at bridging the gap between Product, Engineering, and Ops to deliver high-impact solutions that scale globally.

Fang holds a Master of Human-Computer Interaction from Georgia Tech and is a Nielsen Norman Group (NN/g) UX Certified professional. This combination of academic depth and industry-leading certification allows him to align sophisticated user needs with aggressive business growth.

Throughout his career, Fang has mastered the art of streamlining intricate systems into intuitive experiences. He is passionate about leveraging deep expertise in cross-functional strategy and AI-empowered product innovation to deliver strategic, functional, and visionary design solutions.

Nikith Joshua DSouza

Nikith Joshua DSouza

Senior Product Designer, Accolade

United States

Biography

Nikith Joshua D’Souza is an award-winning Senior Product Designer specializing in AI-driven, data-intensive platforms across healthcare, fintech, and enterprise SaaS. He currently serves as Senior Product Designer at MediData Solutions, a Dassault Systèmes company, where he contributes to AI-powered clinical trial technologies used by global pharmaceutical organizations.

He designs scalable systems that simplify complex operations and deliver measurable business impact. Previously at Rocket Mortgage, he led high-impact redesigns of consumer fintech experiences that improved conversion rates and supported millions of monthly users.

Beyond industry practice, Nikith is a published researcher with peer-reviewed work in the ACM Digital Library (IndiaHCI) and Springer’s Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing. He has been invited as an alumni panel speaker at Indiana University and has served as a judge for university-level designathons. His work has received international recognition, and he ranks among the Top 1% of mentors globally on ADPList.

Yongzun Wu

Yongzun Wu

UX/UI Designer and Design Curator, Samsung

China

Biography

Yongzun Wu is Design Lead at Samsung, responsible for the UX design of 10 flagship mobile applications. Over the past six years, he has held design leadership roles at Samsung and Kuaishou Technology, managing cross‑functional teams from the US, Korea, India, the UK, and China. Notably, in 2025, he led the redesign of Samsung’s Bixby(similar to Apple’s Siri), guiding the transformation from a voice assistant to a systematic AI assistant, now used by millions of users globally.

His designs have won top honors, including Red Dot Design Awards (×2), London Design Awards (Gold), French Design Award, MUSE Design Awards, and American Good Design Awards, and have been featured at Dutch Design Week and Paris Design Week, receiving coverage from Art Daily, DSCENE, D5 Design Magazine, and Sina, among other global media outlets. Besides, he has served as a juror for top global design competitions, including the Stevie Awards, Orpetron Awards, World Brand Design Society, and Terra Impact Award.

Asbjoerk Stanly Mogensen (Brian Hoehl)

Asbjoerk Stanly Mogensen (Brian Hoehl)

Chief Executive Officer and Design Director, Bikedezign

Netherlands

Biography

Brian Hoehl holds the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Design Director at BikedeZign. Additionally, he has played roles as an investor, product manager, market intelligence director, brand manager, HDC design director, prototype specialist, director of innovation, micro-mobility expert, and licensed brand specialist.

With a decade of experience in global product development and design, Hoehl has garnered more than 200 International Design Awards. He's credited as the innovator behind the original downtube battery design, now recognized as Bosch power tubes. For the past 18 years, he's partnered with various automotive companies to develop e-mobility vehicles and pioneer advancements in micromobility.

He's a pioneering figure in the bicycle industry, celebrated for his award-winning work. He acts as the link that binds the brand identity of top bike brands to the industrial design that maintains product line consistency. His primary mission revolves around brand-building through design thinking processes.

Bret Recor

Bret Recor

Founder and Creative Director, Box Clever

United States

Biography

Bret Recor serves as the founder and creative director at Box Clever, where he brings his background in industrial engineering, entrepreneurship, and investment to the forefront.

Recor excels in harmonizing creative imagination with practical expertise and a strong foundation in engineering. He possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in transforming an idea into a market-ready product and boasts a successful history of collaborating with direct-to-consumer (DTC) and socially-driven brands. His studio has earned recognition for designing top-selling products, such as Away luggage, Caraway cookware, and July air conditioners, among numerous others.

He boasts extensive industry experience, having collaborated with renowned brands such as Knoll, Herman Miller, Away, Nebia, and others. Recor's expertise lies in crafting tangible experiences that not only bring joy to consumers but also enable companies to establish themselves as leaders in their respective market segments.

Samuel Chuffart

Samuel Chuffart

Global Design Director, Icona Design Group

Italy

Biography

Samuel Chuffart, Icona's Global Design Director and one of its co-founders in 2010, started with a modest team of two designers and has since elevated the company to remarkable success. Under his leadership, Icona has amassed a prestigious clientele among global and Chinese car manufacturers, boasting a turnover of 18 million Euro by 2017. He has led the design of groundbreaking vehicles, including the Fuselage and the pioneering titanium supercar, the Icona Vulcano and more!

Chuffart played a pivotal role in developing several celebrated design concepts and production models, from the compact Micra and Evalia Concept to the notable Crossbow, significantly shaping Nissan's brand identity.

After Nissan, Chuffart's expertise was sought by Jaguar Land Rover as a Senior Designer, contributing to the next generation L405 Range Rover launched in 2012. He further enhanced his distinguished career as Chief Designer at Stile Bertone in Turin in 2008, where he led numerous successful design projects.

Joon Kwon

Joon Kwon

Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, LR Seoul

South Korea

Biography

Joon Kwon, CEO and Co-Founder of LR Seoul since 2021, began his career in 2008 at GREY GROUP, Korea, progressing through roles at Geometry Global and Havas, where he served as Executive Creative Director for 16 years.

Throughout his career, Kwon played a pivotal role in crafting advertising campaigns for global brands like BMW, Budweiser, Pepsi, and Heineken, earning numerous prestigious awards. Beyond advertising, he is a dedicated creator committed to societal impact, recognized with international design accolades under the the Social Impact category.

His career reflects not only business acumen but also a commitment to using creativity as a force for positive change.

Oswaldo Sa

Oswaldo Sa

Group Creative Director, VMLYR Commerce NY

United States

Biography

Oswaldo Sa is working as the regional creative director at VMLY&R Commerce, based in NYC.

He is driven by a fervor to conceive and cultivate ideas that lead the pack in innovation, having had the honor of doing so alongside esteemed colleagues and brands across the US, Dubai, Qatar, and Brazil at renowned agencies such as VMLY&R in the US, TBWA in Dubai, Leo Burnett Qatar, DDB, and Mullen Lowe in Brazil. His portfolio of clientele, where he has imparted his creative expertise, includes distinguished names such as Nissan, McDonald's, Oreo, Ferrara, Coca-Cola, Du, Unilever, Cheetos, and Amnesty International, among others.

His unwavering dedication to his craft has culminated in a series of high-impact campaigns, cementing his reputation as a formidable force in the industry. His collaborations with major international brands have not only yielded substantial success but have also showcased his ability to intertwine creative innovation with strategic thinking.

Daniel Montiel

Daniel Montiel

Founder and Owner, Gitanos

Costa Rica

Biography

Daniel Montiel is the founder and owner of Gitanos in Costa Rica, a renowned and leading agency specializing in brand building within the region.

As both the founder and owner, he offers expert counsel to numerous business clients across multiple countries in Latin America and the United States. He has applied his creative abilities to serve a wide array of clients, including major names like Coca-Cola Company, Jeep, Mercedes Benz, Renault, Costa Rica Brewery (Imperial Beer), Essential Costa Rica (country brand), and more.

Across his career, Montiel has displayed remarkable tenacity and an unwavering drive for success. He has achieved exceptional results, garnering over 60 prestigious international awards at some of the most renowned advertising festivals. Additionally, his thought leadership is evident through numerous publications in prominent blogs and advertising magazines, solidifying his status as a global authority in the fields of branding and design.

Alexandre Collares

Alexandre Collares

Creative Art Director, Ogilvy Australia

Australia

Biography

Alexandre de Mello Collares is a prominent creative art director of Ogilvy Australia.

Collares possesses more than a decade of experience in the advertising industry, having worked in both large and mid-sized agencies in the Australian and Brazilian markets, including DDB, McCann, Geometry Global, and Fox Sports, among others. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed clients such as KFC, Pizza Hut, Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Fox Sports, SC Johnson, Westpac, and numerous others, allowing him to accumulate knowledge and exchange insights with a diverse and talented group of professionals.

He remains consistently focused and self-motivated, excelling both individually and in teamwork. With a profound passion for creative ideas and meticulous execution, he anticipates that his finest project is yet to come.

Elham Mirzapour

Elham Mirzapour

Head of Design, Arena Design Studio

Iran

Biography

Elham Mirzapour, a talented figure, currently holds the position of Head of Design at Arena Design Studio. She pursued her academic journey by studying Industrial Design at the ID Faculty of I. Art University in Tabriz, Iran.

As Head of Design at Arena Design Studio, she leverages her extensive experience, gained from working in several interior design studios, to produce exceptional work. Her leadership role involves shaping the creative vision for the studio's projects, guiding a team of designers to bring innovative concepts to life. With her remarkable track record of producing outstanding interior designs, she ensures that projects meet the highest standards of excellence and aesthetic appeal.

Mirzapour's remarkable achievements include winning over 15 international design awards, a testament to her outstanding talent and innovative approach to design. These accolades highlight her ability to consistently deliver excellence and creativity in the field of design.

Renato Barreto

Renato Barreto

Integrated Associate Creative Director, MullenLowe

United States

Biography

Renato Barreto holds the role of an integrated associate creative director at MullenLowe, bringing with him more than 15 years of expertise in the field of advertising.

In his capacity as an integrated associate creative director at MullenLowe, Renato Barreto leverages his extensive background in the advertising domain. Prior to joining MullenLowe, he accumulated a wealth of experience through positions at prominent agencies like DDB Brazil, Ogilvy & Mather, Talent/Marcel, and Dentsu, demonstrating a diverse and well-rounded career in the industry. In 2015, his contributions played a pivotal role in propelling Ogilvy Brazil to the status of one of the most highly recognized agencies in the industry.

Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a diverse portfolio of renowned brands, including UNICEF, Unilever, Coca-Cola, Kimberly Clark, Itaú Bank (the largest bank in Latin America), Nestlé, Toshiba, and numerous other notable names.

Pancho Gonzalez

Pancho Gonzalez

Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer, Inbrax

Chile

Biography

Páncho Gonzalez is the Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Inbrax.

In his capacity as Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of a branding company, Gonzalez leads the development of strategic, story-driven brand experiences that connect creativity with measurable impact. He oversees the creation of integrated campaigns across digital and physical platforms, guiding teams in transforming ideas into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. His expertise spans branded content, artificial intelligence, digital marketing, marketing strategy, and full-funnel planning, allowing him to shape solutions that align brand vision with performance and long-term growth.

He is recognized with honors from international award programs and serves as a mentor with Acción Emprendedora, Female Foundry, and Red de Mentores. He also teaches as an MBA Professor at Miami Ad School and Universidad de Santiago de Chile, hosts the #IABDigitalTalks podcast, and coaches emerging talent through programs such as LIASON and D&AD.

Fernando Felicio dos Santos de Carvalho

Fernando Felicio dos Santos de Carvalho

Assistant Professor of Design, San Francisco State University

United States

Biography

Fernando Felicio dos Santos de Carvalho is an award-winning designer, researcher and is currently the assistant professor of design at the San Francisco State University.

Carvalho brings over 15 years of extensive experience in various professional and academic environments across the globe. His diverse portfolio encompasses healthcare services, medical devices, hospital interiors, Paralympic sports accessories, civil construction equipment, signage, wayfinding, and digital solutions. Notable clients include the NHS, Memorial Hospital of South Bend, Unicef, Heineken Brewers, Kiefer, Sony Music, and the Federation of Industries of Rio de Janeiro.

His career spans teaching, research, and program coordination in diverse settings, from after-school initiatives in Rio de Janeiro's 'favelas' to craftsman training courses, including undergraduate and postgraduate programs in design and architecture across the UK, the USA, Brazil, Chile, and Portugal. His creative works have received global recognition, showcased in museums and galleries in England, Spain, Brazil, and the USA.

Vasil Velchev

Vasil Velchev

Media & Product Life Cycle Manager, Europe, Ideal Standard International NV

Bulgaria

Biography

Vasil Velchev has amassed over a decade of experience as a graphic designer within global organizations. Initially, his foray into product design was more of a hobby, but as his creations gained international recognition and garnered awards, his confidence in his ideas grew.

Several years ago, He initiated the MAGMA project, a platform aimed at consolidating his diverse creations under one umbrella. The project's name is symbolic, representing the designer's belief that every original idea should remain in a constant "liquid" state, continuously evolving to explore its full potential and staying vibrant until it transforms into a tangible product.

Velchev also serves as a valued member of the Grand Jury for prestigious awards. His remarkable talent has earned him approximately 25 international awards across various categories, with a primary focus on furniture design, recognized by design awards worldwide.

Niko Kapa

Niko Kapa

Director, Architect and Industrial Designer, Studio Niko Kapa

United Arab Emirates

Biography

Niko Kapa is a celebrated architect and industrial designer, with a practice, Studio Niko Kapa as a director spanning across Europe and the Middle East.

Kapa plays a pivotal role in shaping the architectural and industrial design landscape in both Europe and the Middle East. As an architect, he merges innovation with functionality, creating structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and efficient. In the realm of industrial design, Kapa focuses on integrating cutting-edge technology with user-centric design principles, ensuring that his products are both state-of-the-art and accessible. His work often reflects a blend of contemporary trends and timeless elegance, appealing to a wide range of clients and audiences. Kapa's commitment to excellence and his ability to envision and execute complex design projects have established him as a notable figure in the world of architecture and industrial design.

He has earned over 50 international awards in recognition of his work.

Alessandro Sciortino

Alessandro Sciortino

Chief Creative Officer, Traditional and Digital Advertising Expert, McCann Worldgroup

Italy

Biography

Alessandro Sciortino is the Chief Creative Officer of McCann Worldgroup with an international experience of 20 years in traditional and digital advertising.

Sciortino has had the privilege to create campaigns for renowned clients like MasterCard, Honda, Opel, Alitalia, FAO, Poste, and more. With a Master's Degree in Economics, Alessandro began as a copywriter and later rose to prominence as a global campaign leader, specializing in automotive, financial, and corporate communication.

He has garnered over 30 prestigious awards on a global scale for his exceptional work. Additionally, he shares his extensive knowledge and expertise by serving as an instructor in the fields of advertising and copywriting. Furthermore, he holds an esteemed position as a member of the Scientific Committee at the University of Tor Vergata, contributing to academic advancements and research in his field.

Angel Iskrev

Angel Iskrev

Co-Founder and Creative Director, proof.

Bulgaria

Biography

Angel Iskrev serves as the co-founder and creative director at proof, an independent creative agency located in Bulgaria.

With over eight years of experience in the advertising industry, he has honed his skills, including a tenure as a creative director at DDB Sofia. His extensive experience positions him as a seasoned professional capable of delivering innovative and impactful creative solutions for clients.

Iskrev's portfolio includes collaborations with renowned brands like Telenor Hungary&Bulgaria, Carlsberg Bulgaria, TELUS International Europe, McDonald's, and Somersby, among others. His outstanding work has earned him over 120 awards at both national and international festivals. Additionally, he is an active member of the IAB Bulgaria board and shares his expertise as a visiting lecturer at New Bulgarian University. In his leisure time, he also showcases his talents as a sports commentator on Eurosport, boasting a remarkable record of covering five Olympic Games.

Abhishek Patel

Abhishek Patel

CEO, Abhishek Patel Environ Design Inc

Canada

Biography

Abhishek Patel is the CEO of Abhishek Patel Environ Design Pvt Ltd (APED) and a Certified Interior Designer as well as a LEED Accredited Professional.

A leader with a decade of global experience, he's known for building high-performing, collaborative teams through innovative design, creative problem-solving, and excellent client service since founding APED in early 2015. After earning his Master of Science in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University in Philadelphia, USA, he enthusiastically engages in advocating for the profession. He actively participates in professional organizations, coalitions, councils, and educational institutions while also enjoying the role of a jury member for international design awards and competitions.

Under Patel's guidance and vision, APED has expanded its client base and global presence, evolving into a renowned international design firm, spanning from India to North America. Leveraging his vast, cross-disciplinary expertise in today's dynamic and fast-paced environment, he leads the firm with innovative insights and transformative project solutions. His focus is on unlocking substantial value and meaningful change for clients through the transformative potential of design.

Daisuke Nagatomo

Daisuke Nagatomo

Founder and Associate Professor, MisoSoupDesign

Japan

Biography

Daisuke Nagatomo serves as the founder and director of MisoSoupDesign, and he is a Japanese designer and educator.

His educational background at Meiji University in Tokyo and subsequent architectural studies at Columbia University have equipped him with a strong foundation in design principles and a global perspective, allowing him to infuse innovative and culturally informed elements into the projects undertaken by MisoSoupDesign. He participated as one of the invited researchers in the FabLab House project at IaaC in Barcelona from 2009 to 2010, earning a research diploma during his tenure.

In his various teaching positions at these diverse institutions, Nagatomo has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of students. Beyond imparting valuable design and architectural knowledge, he actively fosters an environment for cross-cultural exchanges and the sharing of innovative ideas among students from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Jae Leong

Jae Leong

Judging Committee Chairperson, International Awards Associate (IAA)

Malaysia

Biography

Jae Leong is the accomplished chairperson of IAA’s extensive judging committee.

As the chairperson, Leong assumes a leadership role, guiding the organization and spearheading initiatives to uphold quality and creative excellence in critical areas such as design, creative advertising, marketing communications, video production, and business. Additionally, she serves as a key award representative at IAA, consistently demonstrating success in overseeing assessments throughout her career.

She prioritizes the coordination of strategic arrangements among various jury panels, establishing herself as a standout figure in the industry. Demonstrating a keen sense of management, Leong has executed her role with precision, ensuring that each participant receives fair evaluations and unbiased assessments, underscoring the significance of integrity in maintaining the credibility of the judging outcomes. Furthermore, her collaboration with professionals globally has positioned her at the forefront of specialization, enabling the development of exceptional communication and relationship management skills.

Jiaru Lin

Jiaru Lin

Head of Design, Amaffi

United States

Biography

Jiaru Lin is a multidisciplinary designer, currently the Head of Design at Amaffi in New York. Lead design categories across fragrance, skincare, leather goods, footwear, and sunglasses. She collaborates with cross-functional teams in locations in New York, Geneva, London, Dublin, and Singapore.

Jiaru has worked with brands such as Tom Ford, Gucci, Balmain, Louis Vuitton, Coach, ZARA, Comme des Garçons, and Maison Margiela. Her design excellence has been recognized globally, earning prestigious awards for example the iF International Design Award from Germany. Jiaru has also served as a juror for international design competition.

Her diverse portfolio spans art direction, branding, product design, packaging design, graphic design, digital design, social media content, photoshoots, visual merchandising, event design, game design, art curating, and teaching. Certified in the AI Products and Services Design program from MIT, Jiaru is passionate about innovation, sustainability, artificial intelligence, crypto, science, and volunteering. Her love for travel and culinary exploration fuels her creativity and inspires her work. Jiaru’s boundless curiosity and passion for life are integral to her creative approach.

Arvin Maleki

Arvin Maleki

Senior Industrial Designer, Futuredge Design Studio

Canada

Biography

Arvin Maleki stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of industrial design, seamlessly integrating his family's rich Persian carpet heritage with contemporary design innovations.

Embarking on a transformative journey from a strong background in technology to prioritizing user-focused and eco-friendly design, Maleki showcases a fervent dedication to blending age-old traditions with forward-thinking creativity. His relentless pursuit of excellence is continually recognized with high-profile awards.

His broad knowledge, covering everything from sketching and model-making to conducting research and collaborating in teams, is underpinned by a steadfast commitment to ongoing education and improvement. As a mentor and educator, he is actively involved in workshops and symposiums worldwide, cultivating future design leaders and building a community dedicated to pioneering innovation. Maleki's narrative transcends individual achievement, serving as a compelling example of how the fusion of cultural legacy and modern design can impact and inspire the international design landscape, making a significant and enduring contribution to industrial design.

Zhou Wen Jun

Zhou Wen Jun

Founder and Design Director, 524 STUDIO ® / NGISED.DESIGN ® / Zhou Wen Jun ® Design

China

Biography

Zhou Wen Jun is a renowned designer and an esteemed global awards adjudicator with over two decades of professional expertise in the realms of architecture, creativity, and design. He firmly upholds a design philosophy encapsulated by the mantra: "Everything is Design, Design for Everything! Better Design equals Better Life, Better Quality & Better Business."

Jun plays a pivotal role in shaping the creative direction and vision of his endeavors. His extensive experience spanning over 20 years in the architecture, creative, and design industry positions him as a guiding force in driving innovative and impactful design solutions. He instills a sense of purpose and excellence into every aspect of his work, ultimately contributing to better quality, enhanced lifestyles, and prosperous businesses.

Jun’s remarkable contributions to the field have garnered numerous prestigious international awards and accolades, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication. His distinguished achievements include, but are not limited to, the following:

Deepti Kshirsagar

Deepti Kshirsagar

Partner and Chief Design Strategist, TCT Branding

India

Biography

Deepti Kshirsagar holds the position of partner and chief design strategist at TCT Branding.

Kshirsagar leverages her extensive decade-long expertise in design and branding as the Chief Design Strategist at TCT Branding. She plays a central part in the development and execution of strategic design initiatives. Her impact extends to the successful introduction of several prominent global brands into the Indian market, showcasing her ability to drive brand recognition and market presence through thoughtful design strategies. She is involved in crafting innovative and effective approaches to design that elevate brands and create lasting impressions.

She holds the belief that design is evolving in tandem with culture, and the traditional view of design solely as aesthetically pleasing art needs to adapt accordingly. There is a fresh surge of enthusiasm for exploring uncharted territories in design and communication, and it is vital to direct this newfound energy effectively.

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