Introducing the WGSN Future Makers: Srushti Sarwate

The Future Makers Mentorship Programme

On July 9, we shared what would be the start of the first ever WGSN mentorship programme, the Future Makers. Our aim is to support individuals from underserved and underrepresented communities at different stages in their careers to develop themselves professionally. We now have 26 WGSN Future Makers, who we’ve been introducing to you in the past weeks. 

Introducing the WGSN Future Makers: Srushti Sarwate

Today, we are happy to introduce Srushti, a designer inspired by culture, cities and travel. We caught up with Srushti to see what she’s up to now, and what inspired her interest in design.

What have you been up to recently, are there any projects you’re working on?

I am currently working on designing a lamp made from bamboo, as part of a craft-based design process. The project is in its final stages, and a part of it also included promoting handicrafts of India. As part of a personal project and learning I am working on a UX redesign of an airline company app as well.

Do the handicrafts of India influence a lot of your work?

I really admire Indian craft artisans, as they work really hard to keep the culture alive. Their perfection in craftsmanship and intricacy of the work is truly inspiring to me.

Recently, I was also inspired when I was watching the Abstract series on Netflix. I learnt about the works of Ian Spalter in production design. Getting to know how his mind works and how his daily routine of designing is, was truly an experience.

Does anything else around you inspire you?

My biggest inspiration are my home cities, the way the cities have grown and moulded my childhood. The architecture of the cities, the memories connected with them, drive me to take inspiration when designing. My father’s patience and his systematic approach when dealing with problems is also an inspiration when I am stuck at a stage in the design process.

Has your father always inspired you creatively?

Since my childhood my father encouraged my creative skills by introducing me to sketching and painting. Growing up, creativity has always been present. My parent’s support in choosing a field apart from medical and engineering motivated me to work in a creative industry.

Finally, is there anything you particularly listen to while you work?

I usually listen to Indian indie music, hip hop and blues while I am working. My go to artists are Prateek Kuhad and Ritviz who get me into the working mode. 

Srushti is mentored by Jess Tang, our Senior Consultant at WGSN Mindset, based in Hong Kong. Jess is passionate about broadening the world’s understanding of Asia and uncovers the desires of consumers and translates them into brand and product strategies in the region.

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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