Designing Change: Folayemi's Journey Through IADT's MA in Design for Change

For Folayemi, studying the MA Design for Change at Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology (IADT) was about more than advancing his design skills. After years working in the creative industry, he wanted to use design to make a tangible difference in people's lives.

"The programme is looking into ways to use design as a tool to inspire change across different industries, especially on a societal level," he explains. "How can we use the power of design to make life better?"

Originally from Nigeria, Folayemi completed his undergraduate studies in Communication Design before spending nearly a decade working in industry. Over time, he found himself wanting to create work with a longer-lasting impact.

"I reached a point where I felt like I needed to do something that had a lot more impact beyond just the screen," he says.

Why Study the MA Design for Change at IADT?

IADT students brainstorming ideas during the design process.

While researching postgraduate options, Folayemi knew he wanted to study at a specialist arts institution. When he discovered IADT's MA Design for Change programme, it immediately caught his attention.

"I came across the programme and thought, 'Okay, this literally checks my boxes. I want that one.'"

One of the aspects he values most is the programme's multidisciplinary approach. Students come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including law, urban planning and design, creating opportunities for collaboration and fresh perspectives.

"The idea is to get people from different disciplines to come together and do something cool."

MA Design for Change: Exploring Product Design and Industrial Design at IADT

Folayemi is using the programme to support a career transition into product and industrial design, with a particular interest in consumer electronics.

"I'm looking to design physical products," he explains. "Things like mobile phones, laptops or everyday objects that people can see and touch."

The programme's flexibility has allowed him to shape his studies around his own interests.

"You basically chart your own path. That's one thing I really love about it."

As someone with a background in 3D design, he has enjoyed experimenting with electronics, prototyping and fabrication technologies.

"I've gotten a chance to work with electronics and 3D printing, and I'm a very big nerd for these sorts of things."

Hands-On Learning in the MA Design for Change Programme at IADT

One of IADT's students proudly displaying her design project.

One of Folayemi's favourite projects involved creating an interactive installation called the "Photo Oracle".

Working as part of a team, he helped design an experience that encouraged visitors to think about the information embedded within the photos they share online.

The installation demonstrated how metadata can reveal details such as where and when a photograph was taken, helping users better understand digital privacy and security.

"It was a really wonderful process," he says.

The project also allowed him to make full use of IADT's facilities, including 3D printers, laser cutters and fabrication workshops.

"We had access to a bunch of 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters and all sorts. It was nice to be able to actually do that without having to go off campus."

International Student Experience on the MA Design for Change in Dublin

Having previously studied in the UK, Folayemi found the move to Ireland relatively seamless.

"The transition was actually pretty seamless because everything feels quite similar to the UK."

Although he admits Dublin can be expensive, he has thoroughly enjoyed living in the city.

"There's always something to do. There's always something fun happening."

From cultural events and live music to unique city tours, he says Dublin offers endless opportunities to explore.

"Irish people are absolutely lovely people. They're some of the kindest people you'll ever meet."

He has also appreciated the city's multicultural atmosphere.

"You meet people from everywhere. It's lovely to meet people from different places and learn about other people's cultures."

Government of Ireland Scholarship for an MA Design for Change Student

Folayemi has been thoroughly enjoying his time at IADT and living in Dublin.

Alongside his studies, Folayemi was awarded the prestigious Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship.

The scholarship provides a full tuition waiver and is awarded to just 60 students worldwide each year.

"I honestly didn't even think I was going to get it," he says.

When he received the news, his reaction was unforgettable.

"I was so happy, I almost threw my phone at the wall."

The scholarship also gave him the opportunity to attend an awards ceremony and meet government representatives and ambassadors from around the world.

Career Opportunities After the MA Design for Change at IADT

As he prepares for his final semester, Folayemi is already planning an ambitious thesis project that will combine research with the creation of a physical product.

"I'm looking to build something physical to support my thesis and my research."

For him, the future remains centred on using design to solve real-world problems and improve people's lives.

Whether through consumer products, healthcare solutions or innovative technologies, his goal is simple: to create meaningful change through design.