A fireside chat on luxury design, storytelling and self-expression brought together aspiring designers and industry professionals at the Mumbai edition of JD Design Awards 2026.
At the JD Design Awards 2026, organised by JD Institute of Fashion Technology, renowned designer and filmmaker Mozez Singh engaged young and aspiring designers through a fireside chat, an interactive session, and a special felicitation ceremony recognising his contribution to the creative industry.
Singh’s session formed part of a four-day celebration of creativity, innovation and design excellence, during which students, faculty and industry participants took part in a series of conversations on fashion, design and creative expression.
A Conversation on Luxury, Craft and Story
The evening opened with a fireside chat on luxury design, in which Singh shared insights from his creative journey and reflected on how the relationship between story, craftsmanship and luxury has evolved over the years. Drawing on his experience across both film and fashion, he encouraged students to trust their own imagination and creative voice rather than follow prevailing trends.
Speaking with the students, Singh emphasised the importance of authenticity and individuality in design.
“Fashion helps you express yourself and figure out who you are,”
he said, framing design not simply as a profession but as a means of self-expression.
For his contribution to the creative industry, Singh was felicitated as a Visionary Filmmaker by Mr Yogesh Dalal, Trustee, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, and Dr Payal Dalal, Director, JD Institute of Fashion Technology.
Reflecting on the exchange, Singh said:
“The interaction with young designers who are just starting their creative journey is always inspiring. What stood out to me was their willingness to experiment and express themselves through their design. Fashion is personal, and I hope they continue to trust their instincts, be authentic, and design that reflects who they truly are.”
A Showcase of Emerging Talent
The Mumbai edition of JD Design Awards 2026 concluded with a grand fashion showcase at St. Andrews Auditorium, where 87 young designers presented 37 collections inspired by Indian tradition, art and craft, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. The four-day event also featured The Stock Room, an initiative giving students the opportunity to exhibit and sell their creations while gaining first-hand exposure to the business side of the design industry. In total, the event drew 1,334 participants, including industry leaders, buyers, media, alumni and design enthusiasts.
Mr Rinesh Dalal, Director of JD Institute of Fashion Technology, spoke to the value of giving students a platform to engage with established creative professionals and gain practical, real-world experience beyond the classroom.
“The interaction with Mozez Singh added valuable insights into creativity, authenticity, and self-expression,” Dalal said. “At JD Design Awards, such opportunities are as crucial as showcasing students’ talents. We hope young designers take inspiration from such sessions to continue creating with confidence, authenticity and creativity.”
A Legacy of Mentorship
For over 27 years, JD Design Awards has provided emerging designers with a platform to showcase their work, engage with industry professionals, and gain valuable real-world exposure. The Mumbai edition continued this legacy, bringing together students, educators and industry experts around a shared emphasis on collaboration, mentorship and industry engagement in shaping the next generation of designers.
