Key Takeaways from UMA’s 2021 Detroit Design Jam

In September 2021, UMA, College of Creative Studies [Detroit, MI], and Design Core Detroit continued their Design Jam programming by adding inclusive design aspects to the innovation challenges inherent in all UMA Design Jams.

This Jam was split into two parts. The first part was an Anti-Ableism and Inclusive Design Workshop led by Ani G Accessibility, “A consulting firm improving how we move throughout & interact with our environments as we age & live with disability,” and Ellie Schneider, former Director, Detroit City of Design, Design Core Detroit.

The second part of the Design Jam brought together over 70 design students, creative professionals, makers, manufacturers, and event partners at the College of Creative Studies Fashion Design Program’s studio to collaborate on six design challenges. Final designs included backpack designs for people with limb loss, biking apparel for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), and boots for paraplegic snow skiers, among other design proposals.