In collaboration with AUS, MAKE launches second year of professional program for aspiring designers

Due to the success of the first program in 2021-2022, MAKE in collaboration with American University of Sharjah launches its second intake which is due to commence 26 August 2022. MAKE invites all those with an ambition to become a furniture designer to take part in this unique professional program, taking place at the MAKE workshop based in Al Zeina, Abu Dhabi this year. Running from September to December 2022, the Athath Fellowship is a professional 16-week course aimed at training those that already have a keen interest in furniture design but are looking to expand their expertise and to progress their skill set into launching a business model.

The course will be led by Ammar Kalo, international award-winning furniture designer, architect and Associate Professor at American University of Sharjah’s College of Architecture, Art and Design. Kalo will take the Fellows through the history of furniture design, production, and prototyping and ultimately a presentation of their final piece. Guest lecturers and speakers will contribute including those with critically acclaimed Design House Fritz Hansen in Denmark. All the practical skill training will be delivered in the studio with the MAKE team.

“This program is focused on developing design and fabrications skills while also looking at the business side of things and how to effectively launch a design start-up: which is a gap in the current market,” said Ammar Kalo.

The 16-week course will be broken down into three phases and offers those that participate the chance to develop a concept, create a prototype, explore the areas of production and to develop a final business model to launch a new career. This is an intensive and hands-on program with most of the course requiring full in-person attendance at MAKE with a percentage of the theoretical modules being delivered online.

Key outcomes:

Developing, designing, and fabricating one key piece of furniture with the goal of it being produced in multiples.

Training in material sourcing and learning new technical skills including digital and manual. 

Business and entrepreneurial skills on how to launch and grow a brand and bring the product to market.

Becoming a well-rounded designer and entrepreneur with the skill set to move on from the course and start a business in the local area, have confidence in your brand creation and pitch it to clients.

Applications now open, deadline 22 July 2022 midnight GST

Program starts 26 August 2022 and concludes 17 December 2022 with a showcase is planned for January 2023.

The program total cost is AED 9,950

For further information visit the website: www.athathfellowship.ae

You will require a portfolio of creative works to apply. The program is taught in English.