KUUMBA
MFA THESIS
Diversity does exist in the design industry; however, people of color are not in the forefront. This topic has been talked about for more than 30 years. A perfect solution has not been found for the problem.
OBJECTIVE
How can I increase the number of young African American women in the design industry? There are many problems as to why the design industry is a predominately white male industry. These problems must be found and possible solutions need to be developed to adequately solve these problems and address the issue.
APPROACH
There are many reasons why the number of women of color in the design industry is low. I chose to focus on three main reasons or problems—lack of knowledge, lack of accessibility and exposure, and lack of design programs. Instead of having an older target audience, I decided to choose young African American women who are ending their high school careers and are just starting college. These are formative years.
Kuumba is here to introduce design to young women of color
Why aren’t there many African American in the design industry?
Diversity in design is has been an ongoing discussion for many years. There are a number of men and women who feel like there has been a step in the right direction but believe there is still more to be done.
How can I help increase the number of African American women in the design industry?
Educate
Knowledge book that feature black women designers, their work and design resources
Mentor
Mentoring app you can use to find a mentor or mentee and speak with other designers of color.
Express
Event and Exhibit that gives you hands on design experience
