Filmed at the program’s high-performance leadership and creativity retreat in Bali, the film spotlights two of Australia’s rising design talents: product designer Maryam Moghadam and interior designer/architect Katherine Luu. With honesty and vulnerability, Maryam and Katherine reflect on ambition, self-doubt, and the values that continue to shape their creative paths.

More than a profile, Design Journeys offers a window into the future of Australian design, told through the voices of its next generation.

The Power of Mentorship and Cohort

Each year, ADR’s 30UNDER30 program selects 30 emerging designers from across Australia and connects them with leading industry mentors. This unique platform — the only one of its kind in the country — blends 12 months of professional mentorship with an immersive creativity retreat.

The generosity of the mentors, who dedicate their time and guidance, is a cornerstone of the program. Combined with the extraordinary talent of the cohort itself, it creates a rare environment of collaboration, vulnerability, and growth — qualities that shine through in Design Journeys.

Creative Freedom in Storytelling

Working alongside ADR and Niche Media, we were given the creative freedom to shape this story authentically. That freedom allowed us to go beyond polished profiles, instead capturing raw, behind-the-scenes moments of reflection and connection.

As filmmakers, we’re grateful for this trust. It enabled us to honour Maryam and Katherine’s voices while reflecting the broader impact of the ADR 30UNDER30 program — not just on individuals, but on the future of Australian design.

Watch the Film

Design Journeys — directed and edited by Nico White of Pineal Productions, co-produced by Sophie Berrill and Alvin Wu (Niche Media).

Location: Desa Potato Head, Bali, Indonesia.

Watch the full film on YouTube

Acknowledgements

The 30UNDER30 Interior and Product Design program (2024/2025) is brought to you by major sponsor Neolith, and sponsors Krost, Miele, Interface, and Tongue & Groove. The program is also supported by practice partners Arent&Pyke, BLP, BVN, Cera Stribley, COX Architecture, GroupGSA, Hassell, HDR, Richards Stanisich, Rothelowman, SJB, and Williams Burton Leopardi.

We’re proud to have contributed to this program and to celebrate the voices of the designers shaping our future.