"The part-time structure of the Circular by Design programme enabled me to maintain my design practice while re-engaging with formal education at postgraduate level. It provided the space to re-assess my approaches to design and making, and the time required to research, experiment and think critically about my role as a designer. I saw it as an investment in both my design practice and my ability to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future. The course has broadened my understanding of what design can achieve with a circular ethos and philosophy. Through modules focused on circular design methods, systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, mindset/behavioural change, and collaborative research projects, I have developed new approaches towards the complex challenges that shape the fashion and textile industries. Working with industry partners and engaging with stakeholders has been particularly valuable."

Before returning to NCAD to continue my design education, I had spent a decade building my practice as a designer and maker. However, over the past few years I reached a point where I could no longer accept “business as usual” within the fashion and textile industries. As I observed the scale of the global textile waste crisis increasing,

I recognised a responsibility to deepen my awareness of how designers can play a vital role in the transition towards a circular economy. I understood that if I wanted to continue working within fashion, textiles, and costume, I needed to rethink not only what I make, but how I make it, why I make it, and what happens to materials before and after they pass through my hands.

The part-time structure of the Circular by Design programme enabled me to maintain my design practice while re-engaging with formal education at postgraduate level. It provided the space to re-assess my approaches to design and making, and the time required to research, experiment and think critically about my role as a designer. I saw it as an investment in both my design practice and my ability to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future. The course has broadened my understanding of what design can achieve with a circular ethos and philosophy. Through modules focused on circular design methods, systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, mindset/behavioural change, and collaborative research projects, I have developed new approaches towards the complex challenges that shape the fashion and textile industries. Working with industry partners and engaging with stakeholders has been particularly valuable.

The course has broadened my understanding of what design can achieve with a circular ethos and philosophy. Through modules focused on circular design methods, systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, mindset/behavioural change, and collaborative research projects, I have developed new approaches towards the complex challenges that shape the fashion and textile industries. Working with industry partners and engaging with stakeholders has been particularly valuable. The course encourages the application of these tools and skills to live challenges, exploring practical solutions within real-world contexts.

For example I recently completed a collaborative group project designing a toolkit to make carbon accounting more accessible for product-based SMEs and designers in Ireland. This course has provided me with the opportunity to engage with international policymakers, scientists, textile recyclers, innovators, investors, and industry leaders who are actively shaping the future of the circular economy. The programme has given me the confidence to contribute to these conversations and has strengthened my ability to critically evaluate emerging solutions. Participating with the Professional Diploma in Circular by Design has been a transformative learning experience, generating a sense of purpose in contributing positively to the transition towards a circular economy. The programme has reshaped the way I approach design, strengthening my commitment to creating a more regenerative future. Building upon this qualification, I have now progressed to the MA in Circular by Design, where I look forward to deepening my research and continuing to build meaningful and impactful collaborations.