On June 19, 2025, PARK, in collaboration with the World Design Organization (WDO) and hosted by BRP at their downtown Montreal Offices, delivered a full-day Design Leadership Masterclass that exemplified the spirit of World Industrial Design Day (WIDD). Organised with the support of ADIQ and ACID, the day brought together Canadian design professionals for an immersive, in-person experience centred on the future of ethical, impactful, and strategic design leadership.

Led by Stephan Clambaneva, Managing Director of PARK USA, the masterclass, delivered on our PARK Academy platform, explored the evolving expectations of design leaders—emphasising the need for new models of leadership grounded in empathy, systems thinking, and moral ambition. The day concluded with a vibrant cocktail reception hosted by ADIQ, where we extended the conversation into the evening and celebrated WIDD in true Montréal style—with purpose, dialogue, and community.

At the reception, Stephan shared the framework we use to think about leadership in design:
– Creative intelligence – our ability to imagine and provoke new futures
– Emotional intelligence – our ability to lead with empathy, vulnerability, and trust
– Business intelligence – our ability to navigate and influence systems of value and power

A great designer might master one. A great design leader must balance all three. To reinforce these points, he referenced two powerful recently published books that further support his thinking:

First, “A Different Kind of Power” by Jacinda Ardern. It’s not your typical political memoir—it’s a manifesto on empathetic leadership. Ardern redefines strength through vulnerability, reminding us that authenticity, humility, and emotional honesty are not signs of weakness, but superpowers in today’s interconnected world. That’s a lesson more design leaders need.

Second, “Moral Ambition” by Rutger Bregman, which flips the script on success. He urges us to dedicate our careers to tackling humanity’s greatest challenges—not for fame or profit, but for purpose. What will the historians of the future say about us? That’s the kind of reflection we need in every design brief and boardroom.

And finally, he quoted Dr. Sylvia Earle, marine biologist and star from the documentary Seaspiracy:
“No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. Sometimes, big ideas make a big difference.”
That’s the essence of design leadership today. It’s not about titles. It’s about intent. Action. And impact.

Design leadership isn’t a destination—it’s a mindset. One that calls us to look in the mirror, challenge the status quo, and commit to designing better systems, not just better products.

Thanks again to WDO, BRP, ADIQ, ACID, and every participant who made this event a true model of what WIDD can be. Let’s continue building a future where design leads—with purpose.