Introducing the WGSN Future Makers: Shriya Misra

The Future Makers Mentorship Programme

The WGSN Future Makers mentorship programme, which was initially open to 10 mentees from around the world, was a humbling experience for us. We received more than 1,000 entries from around the world, with the most engaging and empowering stories. As a result, we have been inspired to select not just 10, but 26 mentees who were matched up with mentors from across WGSN – from sales to design, content and HR – for the programme.

Introducing the WGSN Future Makers: Shriya Misra

Today, we are happy to introduce you to Shriya, a student at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Raebareli, India. A natural problem solver, Shriya is inspired by the ‘out of the box’ thinking of Daniel Fletcher, a menswear designer. We caught up on their influences and past projects.

Let’s start with your interest in fashion, when did you realise you wanted to study design?

Honestly, for me it wasn’t something I knew from a young age. I always had a knack for art and design, but it was the last few months of high school that I realised that I live and breathe design. I realised fashion is an excellent medium for making statements, sending social messages and basically making an impact. This kind of design can bring about the change that the world needs.

Does this kind of statement-led design influence your personal style?

Yes, usually I like to work on designs in which I can convey messages to the audience without any confusion. Designs that solve the problem of my audience are the ones I’m a big fan of. In a single word, I would describe my design style as ‘practical’.

It’s the same for us, the goal is to solve problems for our clients. Are there any particular things you are inspired by?

I often find myself deeply inspired by children. Their approach to problem solving and creating pieces of art is very raw and unbiased. I try to create problem-solving designs by understanding it from a child’s perspective.

And inspiration in practice, is there a problem-solving project you’re particularly proud of?

Recently I did a project in which I made animations for people to learn Morse code easily. I had kept the project very simple and minimal, with basic shapes and subtle colours. I received positive responses from numerous people – the fact that it was able to help people effectively makes me proud.

Finally, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

Just that everyone is a work of art and every work of art is perceived in unique ways!
The only perception that is truly important is our own.

Shriya is mentored by Anupreet Bhui, our Commissioning Manager at WGSN based in Hong Kong, who works with department heads, strategists and analysts to plan client- and market-focused content.

Keep your eyes peeled as we reveal more WGSN Future Makers over the coming weeks, here on WGSN Insider. Can’t wait? Get to know other Future Makers.

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