Avni

NID Bangalore, SDM

From Fashion Communication to Strategic Design Management

From Engineering Dreams to Creative Discovery

Like many Indian students, Avni began her journey preparing for engineering. But a random chance at a perspective drawing paper sparked something within her, a curiosity for design. Slowly, she shifted direction and joined Fashion Communication at NIFT Bengaluru. Her early years were full of exploration, from styling assignments to UI/UX design experiments. Though she initially aimed to become a UI/UX designer, she soon realised she wanted more than screens, she wanted purpose. By her sixth semester, she had developed a deeper interest in design strategy and storytelling, which set the stage for a new dream: Strategic Design Management (SDM).

Research, Mistakes and Growing Through Experience

Avni didn't just wait for clarity, she actively searched for it. Her graduation project on reverse engineering local languages showed her passion for human-centered design and social impact. She interned as a design researcher, asked tough questions, and explored design through dialects and communication gaps. Along the way, she also made mistakes, like underestimating preparation or choosing UI/UX without full understanding. But each misstep became a step forward. Her projects reflected real-world understanding, and interviews helped her realise her strength wasn't just in visual design, it was in systems, research and strategic thinking.

SDM Prep, AI Tools and Creative Confidence

Preparing for SDM required a different mindset. Avni used tools like ChatGPT to improve prompt framing and understand system thinking better. She read trend reports, discussed design for change, and used AI not as a shortcut, but as a thinking partner. She believes creativity grows when we know how to ask better questions. Her portfolio wasn’t just a collection of pretty projects, it was a story of growth. From miniature models to meaningful embroidery inspired by history, Avni added a personal touch to everything she did. Her advice? Explore deeply, reflect honestly, and never stop being curious.

Avni’s Work for Reference

On this page

• Avni
• From Engineering Dreams to Creative Discovery
• Research, Mistakes and Growing Through Experience
• SDM Prep, AI Tools and Creative Confidence
• Avni’s Work for Reference