On Wednesday 19 June, the Year 11 cohort was delighted to hear from Co-founder of Seljak Brand, Ms Samantha Seljak, Creative Industries Director of Research Impact and Excellence at Queensland University of Technology, Dr Oksana Zelenko, and Grammar Woman, Lucy Davidson (2015), as part of a Design Guest Lecture Series.
Ms Seljak, a social entrepreneur advocating for a world without waste, presented her company’s textile recycling process and how they make products that are regenerative by design. The company’s closed loop blankets are made from recycled merino wool offcuts from the factory floor of Australia’s oldest mill in Tasmania.
The blankets are 70 per cent recycled Australian merino wool and a 30 per cent blend of recycled alpaca, mohair and polyester for strength. Ms Seljak discussed how the company is minimising waste and making the most of resources with their circular economy approach. Seljak Brand’s closed-loop model allows the company to divert waste from landfill and create a luxurious blanket.
As a designer, researcher and educator, Dr Zelenko presented her work on participatory design for health, including design-led innovation in health technology products and services, and how design can be used to create change.
Dr Zelenko showcased design projects and technology innovations in practice, including mobile health apps and innovative digital platforms for education, focusing on the important contribution design and creativity make to society.
Grammar Woman, Lucy Davidson (2015), returned to the School to share her experiences of studying Business and Information Technology at The University of Queensland. Lucy provided insight into her studies and showcased her graphic design portfolio, digital prototyping, and artificial intelligence projects.
Mr Brendon Thomas
Director of Technologies
Lucy Davidson (2015)
Year 11 students with Ms Dr Oksana Zelenko.
Ms Samantha Seljak presents to students.
