We’re delighted to announce that Michael Omotosho will be a judge for our V&A Innovate National Schools Challenge 2022 – 23.
Michael Omotosho is a freelance industrial designer. He is passionate about finding inclusive, functional solutions to problems that challenge everyday living, and is the designer, inventor and founder of Plugull, an electrical plug pull that makes it easier to remove plugs from sockets. It is designed to help those with arthritis and to support independent living.
Michael holds a BSc in Automotive Design Technology from the University of Bradford. In 2021 he was named Young Innovator of the Year by Innovate UK and the Prince’s Trust.
We spoke to Michael about being on the panel and why design is important to him.
What are you most looking forward to as a V&A Innovate judge, and why?
I am passionate about young people in design, so it is an honour to be on the panel this year. I look forward to seeing ideas that go against the norm, stories leading to the ideas, and how relatable they are. The process for every idea is always fascinating and I look forward to seeing and learning what means and methods the entrants go through.
What do this year’s themes of Adapt, Care and Disrupt mean to you?
The themes to me mean designing from a place of empathy and changing the status quo. It is also being a pioneer, not being afraid of challenging issues and not being timid about your ideas. I believe it is all these things, while being considerate and inclusive of others.
Why is design important to you?
Design for me is a way of life that I have come to realise I can’t do without. It’s more like having a purpose in life, and design is a way I fulfil that life purpose. Being able to live and dream up ideas to bring about impact, inclusivity, awareness and change to people, is why design is important to me.
What invention / innovation could you not live without?
It is the tools we use that help us realise our dreams and find a voice. For me it’s pen and paper. It plays a vital part in bringing my imagination to life.
Can you share any top tips for students taking part in V&A Innovate this year?
Be reflective on the ‘why’ and ensure you study and understand the problem you are trying to solve. Let that be your starting point as you embark on this challenge. Your ideas are valid and it’s how you work hard towards them that makes them come to life. Also remember to be yourself, have fun and enjoy the process.
Could your students design with empathy and challenge the status quo? Register to take part on the V&A Innovate webpage and enter your students’ ideas by 13 January 2023.
V&A Innovate is the V&A’s annual National Schools Challenge offering students in years 7, 8 and 9 the opportunity to design a solution to a real-world problem inspired by the V&A’s collections.
