Meet the Apprentices.

Discover the apprentices’ journeys so far

Isaac Nwaku.

“I am very grateful that my mum understood my passion for creativity from a young age and took me to many exhibitions across London, Europe and North America. In addition to this, my dad pushed and supported me in my academic studies, which helped me secure a place at University. He inspired me to be driven and never to let anyone or anything stop me following my aspirations.”

- Isaac Nwaku @the_interior_minded

 

Could you please introduce yourself?

Born and raised in North London, I have always been inspired by my city. Growing up exploring London, I have great admiration for design, architecture, photography, and art which has undoubtedly influenced my career choice.  

I studied Interior Architecture at Oxford Brookes University where I was the only boy on my course, however I didn’t let that get in the way of chasing my dreams. The course was very conceptual in its approach to design, and I look forward to gaining professional experience in the design industry and to keep expanding my knowledge. 

Why did you apply to United in Design?

I applied to United in Design as it is tailor made to help people like me in a tough situation, where we don’t feel like we are given an opportunity to shine. 

Since I graduated in Interior Architecture in 2017, it has been challenging for me to get a chance to work in Interiors. I have been working as an Architectural Technician, whilst continuously seeking more creative roles.  

What do you expect from the apprenticeship programme? 

To be a successful candidate of the United In Design Apprenticeship program is a fantastic opportunity for me to kickstart my Interiors career, which has been difficult to come by over the past three years. I look forward to learning what it takes to create successful interior spaces, and to meet a range of designers from each of the four practices I will be spending my time at. This experience will help create a strong foundation for me to progress in the design industry. 

Mercy Sossion.

“Design, for me, is a very powerful medium for tangible storytelling and that is why I endeavour to create environments that can resonate effortlessly with its context and natural occupants.”

- Mercy Sossion @the_interior_soso

 

Why did you apply to United in Design?

This initiative by United in Design offers a great way for me to get my foot in the proverbial door. I think the apprenticeship programme is a fantastic opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of practices and services within the industry in a shorter time frame than would have otherwise taken years to achieve such a great wealth of experience.  

What does being part of the apprenticeship programme mean to you? 

I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with talented designers who have amassed a great amount of experience and insight into the design industry, both locally and internationally. It is a unique chance for me to be a part of the ecosystem and use the experience during this apprenticeship to nourish my growth on the journey to becoming a successful designer. Thanks to United in Design for the exciting year ahead.  

What do you expect from the apprenticeship programme? 

I believe that every interaction provides a unique learning avenue and I am ready to lap up all the knowledge I can get from the incredible designers and their teams during this apprenticeship. I am grateful to the participating companies for opening their doors to us and I’m looking forward to growing as a designer and finding my footing within the industry and community at large.

Christine Omorere.

“I am utterly thrilled to embark upon this invaluable career opportunity, that will enrich my knowledge, as well as contribute to my career advancement.”

- Christine Omorere @theladyinthemustardgloves

 

Could you please introduce yourself?

I am a born and bred Londoner of African descent. I became an interior design enthusiast in my adolescence, as I would frequently redesign my bedroom, source décor pieces for my home, and watch renovations programs. This led to my pursuit of education to become a qualified interior designer. I then took up studies at Middlesex University, where I obtained a 1st class degree in Interior Design. My experience as an intern solidified my love for Interior Design and has now influenced my career aspirations.  

Why did you apply to United in Design? 

I immediately thought that the apprenticeship United in Design was offering to successful candidates would have been incredibly beneficial to my career progression and was an unmissable opportunity, so I applied. I considered this placement as a means to gain superb experience at the line-up of companies. As a new designer, I need to absorb as much knowledge as I can, so early on in my career, and this opportunity will allow that. 

What do you expect from the apprenticeship programme? 

Upon completion of this apprenticeship, I anticipate gaining a foothold in the industry and securing a permanent position at a studio, in addition to attaining industry connections. Being situated at the line-up of companies, I'm expecting to develop a multifaceted approach towards designing an interior, at the same acquiring a discerning taste.

Roshu Shrestha.

“One day I hope to have my own collaborative creative studio merging different disciplines and uniting multiple ethnic groups.”

- Roshu Shrestha @_designs_rs

 

Could you please introduce yourself?

My name is Roshu and I am an Interior Architecture and Design graduate and I went to Nottingham Trent University. I was born in Nepal and I came to the UK when I was 7. My passion for interior design became apparent at a very young age as I would often redesign spaces in my head. One day I hope to have my own collaborative creative studio merging different disciplines and uniting multiple ethnic groups. I believe this apprenticeship will build a strong foundation towards this goal.

Why did you apply to United in Design? 

I applied for United in Design as I believe it is an incredible example of professionals taking action to address the lack of diversity within the design industry. The opportunity provided by UID gives individuals from ethnic minority groups like me to penetrate through and engage in the interior design industry in a way that may not have been possible otherwise.

What do you expect from the apprenticeship programme? 

From this apprenticeship programme I hope to learn from experienced designers about all things interior design and more. Additionally, I hope to build new relationships and expand my network.