Sharing expertise and gaining fresh perspectives to shape future digital talent
As the 6th year of teaching the next generation of digital designers at Flipside draws to a close, Jade Fitzgerald, Experience Design Director, reflects on how investing in emerging talent is an investment in the future of our industry.
We have just wrapped up our week of teaching Testing and Validation with the 2025 cohort of Flipside, an industry-led product design bootcamp driven by London-based charity A New Direction that Beyond co-founded in 2018 alongside the likes of Made by Many, Normally and usTwo. The annual 12-week programme, delivered by digital agencies, brings together a cohort of 20 young Londoners, to follow a curriculum that teaches the hard skills involved in end-to-end product design, as well as soft skills around networking, preparing a portfolio and interview expectations. Not only is this an opportunity for the Flipsiders to garner a strong understanding of the product design process, but it has been a consistently rewarding experience for us at Beyond. Seeing these young minds grapple with complex ideas, iterate, and ultimately deliver tangible results is truly inspiring. And, let's be honest, we've benefited immensely over the years, hiring talented interns who've brought fresh perspectives and valuable skills to our team.
This year, we wanted to go beyond the classroom and offer a deeper glimpse into the realities of a digital career. Like many, we understand the value of networking - and always encourage Flipsiders to build relationships to help them get their foot in the door. This year we hosted two panel talks that practiced what we preach, harnessing our local networks to invite some of our homegrown talent, who sparked incredibly insightful conversations.
First, we brought together junior team members from within our Next15 group to share their journeys into the digital world. They spoke candidly about the challenges and triumphs of their first year, offering invaluable advice to the Flipside cohort. Their stories were a powerful reminder that everyone starts somewhere, and that perseverance and a willingness to learn are crucial.
The second panel took a broader view, featuring experienced ex-Beyonders of varying specialisms in the design industry. We delved into the evolving landscape of the industry, discussing the changes they've witnessed over the years and, most importantly, the future of design, especially with AI and new technologies coming into play and what this means for new designers joining the industry. The conversation was dynamic and thought-provoking, highlighting the need for adaptability and a forward-thinking approach. Hearing their perspectives on how to break into the industry and navigate its complexities was a highlight.
Why is Flipside so vital? It's not just about filling a skills gap. It's about:
- Building a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline: Flipside actively seeks out individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative thinking to the industry.
- Bridging the gap between education and industry: The programme provides practical, hands-on experience, preparing individuals for the realities of a professional digital environment.
- Fostering a culture of mentorship and support: Flipside creates a supportive community where individuals can learn from experienced professionals and build valuable networks.
- Injecting fresh perspectives into established companies: As employers, we gain access to innovative ideas and a deeper understanding of emerging trends, keeping us at the forefront of the industry.
Our teaching week is a microcosm of the entire Flipside experience. It's about rigorous learning, practical application, and the crucial process of refinement. But it's also about fostering a passion for digital, building relationships and empowering the next generation of creators. The Flipsiders’ journeys will culminate in a day of presentations, where they will showcase 12 weeks of hard work and present back to industry titans and potential employers.
Watching these young people learn, grow, and challenge themselves is a constant reminder of the power of investment in talent. Flipside isn't just a programme; it's a catalyst for change, and we're proud to be a part of it. Investing in the future of digital through this programme is one of my highlights of the year, and I always look forward to seeing how the Flipsiders continue on their career paths.
