DESIGNA MAGAZINE DESIGNA ISSUE III 2019 2 | Page 123

THE WINNING DESIGN
Cynthia's designs feature a unique system, allowing for
interchangeable covers on the upper and a zipper on the
side to complete the look and functionality. �e idea behind
this system is to create a more sustainable solution, whereby
the soles could be replaced and the uppers could be kept to
increase customisation options. �e designers created a
diverse and inspiring range of footwear, from open toe to
boots.
Design Network Africa
Cynthia Allela
University of Nairobi
Graduate
I get great satisfaction from
building something from scratch
using my hands. My curiosity to
improve and innovate any product
was piqued at a young age, a
passion that led me to studying
product design and Development at
University of Nairobi. I am
passionate about sustainable design
and often lean towards materials such as leather and
recyclables. I graduated with a first class honours from U.o.N
and I am currently pursuing my masters
The inspiration behind this shoe was the fact that most
young people don't have money to buy many pairs of
shoes. Also, if you are travelling, you don't have to
carry different pairs of shoes because this one pair can
be flipped, taken apart and worn in different forms to
suit various occasions.
Ian Abraham came in as runner up, receiving a cheque of
30,000 Ksh for his efforts in the contest. His bold,
progressive redesign of the Safari boot wooed the audience
and is sure to inspire thoughts for the classic boot's future.
Ian Abraham
Technical University of
Kenya
Senior year
I am a creator, an artist and
an entertainer. Design
specifically helps me show
off the beauty in my mind.
I relate to people through
design. I chose design
because it’s who I am ,
who I have always been. My dream is to one day create
something and mavel at. Something like Gangnam style ‘
but not a dance.
�e �unners Up
�e creativity and presentation of work from both runners
up ensured that the judges had a tough decision to make.
Moraa Nyabame was inspired by cacti to design an eco-
friendly platform shoe and a leather shoe with pink accents
Moraa Nyabane
University of Nairobi
4th. year
From a young age design always
fascinated me and that’s when I
realised I could use it as an
avenue to self-express
Steve Thairu
University of Nairobi
Senior year
I chose design to get rid of
the ugly things walking
around and make everyone
look beautiful
May
-
June 2019 | D E S I G N A