In an exclusive conversation with Elena Sacco, Director of Strategy, Business and Relations at Raffles Milano, we delve into the core values and forward-thinking strategies that drive one of the most innovative institutions in design education. With a career dedicated to advancing Raffles Milano’s vision, Elena shares insights on how the institution’s founding principles—centrality of the individual, transdisciplinarity, and innovation in research—shape its transformative curriculum. In this interview, we explore how Raffles Milano leverages its global presence, hybridization approach, and collaborations with leading brands to offer students an unparalleled educational experience that prepares them to tackle global challenges and redefine the future of design.
1. What inspired the founding principles of Raffles Milano – centrality of the individual, transdisciplinarity, and innovation in research – and how are these principles implemented in the curriculum?
Raffles Education’s founding principles were inspired by a vision to redefine education, fostering creativity, adaptability, and holistic thinking. The centrality of the individual reflects the commitment to personalized learning, tailoring educational experiences to students’ unique strengths and aspirations. Transdisciplinarity emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, encouraging students to draw connections between diverse fields to solve complex problems. Innovation in research underpins the pursuit of boundary-pushing ideas and methodologies, ensuring that students remain at the forefront of their industries.
At Raffles Milano, these principles are implemented in our curriculum through experiential learning approaches, collaborative projects, and cutting-edge research initiatives. Personalized mentoring and adaptable coursework help our students thrive in a supportive and stimulating environment. By integrating theoretical and practical knowledge, at Raffles Milano, we create a transformative educational model that prepares our graduates for dynamic, real-world challenges.
2. How does Raffles Milano leverage this global presence to provide a unique educational experience?
Raffles Milano leverages its position within the Raffles Education network, spanning 16 colleges across 10 countries, to offer an educational experience that is both globally informed and locally enriched. The institution integrates international perspectives and cultural diversity into its curriculum, fostering a multicultural environment that mirrors the demands of global creative industries. Situated in Milan, the global design capital, Raffles Milano benefits from the city’s rich heritage in fashion, design, and innovation while drawing on the collective expertise of the Raffles network.
Our students are immersed in cross-disciplinary learning, guided by global professionals who bridge academic concepts with industry practices. Initiatives like cross-campus collaborations, international projects, and mentorship opportunities provide exposure to diverse ideas and markets. This unique combination of global reach and Milan’s vibrant ecosystem ensures that our students graduate with the creative, technical, and leadership skills needed to excel in design, fashion, communication, and branding on an international scale.
3. How does Raffles Milano’s approach to hybridization, experimentation, and research help students break conventional norms and address global challenges?
Raffles Milano’s emphasis on hybridization, experimentation, and research empowers our students to transcend traditional boundaries in design and address global challenges with innovative solutions. By integrating diverse disciplines, we encourage our students to think beyond the box, blending creative and technical expertise to develop fresh perspectives.
This approach is exemplified during events like Milan Design Week, where students showcase projects that span across design and visual arts. These projects highlight the power of interdisciplinary thinking in inspiring groundbreaking ideas. Our 72-hour Design Workshop is another hallmark of Raffles Milano’s philosophy, providing an intense, collaborative platform for students to merge their skills and explore uncharted territories in design and innovation.
By fostering a culture of experimentation, at Raffles Milano, we prepare our students to navigate and shape the rapidly evolving creative landscape. Their work often challenges conventions, offering sustainable, forward-looking solutions to the complexities of modern industries.
4. What role does Raffles Milano play as the European hub of the Raffles Education network, and how does it contribute to shaping the future of design education in Europe?
Raffles Milano, as the European hub of the Raffles Education network, is at the forefront of redefining design education by combining Milan’s dynamic creative ecosystem with a global perspective. Located in the heart of Milan’s design district, the institution offers programs that prioritize creativity, sustainability, and industry relevance, equipping students to excel in an ever-evolving global landscape.
At Raffles Milano, we actively engage in high-profile collaborations and events that bridge academics and the industry. For instance, our partnership with luxury footwear brand Le Silla resulted in students reimagining the iconic Anthea Décolleté for their 30th anniversary, blending tradition with modernity. Events like Milan Design Week and the 72-hour Design Workshop further illustrate our commitment to cross-disciplinary innovation, allowing students to tackle real-world projects alongside leading brands.
Our star-studded Portfolio Night adds another layer, enabling students to present their work to industry leaders and forge connections that pave the way for future opportunities. By fostering these dynamic interactions, Raffles Milano ensures our graduates are not only equipped with technical skills but are also prepared to lead and innovate in the global design industry.
5. Since its establishment in Singapore in 1990, Raffles Education has expanded significantly across Asia and Europe. How has this journey influenced the institution’s vision and educational strategies?
Raffles Education’s expansion into Asia and Europe has enriched its vision, fostering an educational philosophy that embraces global diversity while addressing regional needs. This growth has enabled the institution to draw from various cultural, academic, and industry practices, creating a forward-thinking curriculum that prepares students for international success.
A notable example of this global integration is our Focus Asia module, where our students engage directly with the Asian market by visiting the campus and experiencing the market. Through hands-on projects with local branding agencies and specialized classes, students gain deep insights into the cultural nuances and business strategies. This immersive approach equips them with the adaptability and skills needed to thrive in diverse environments.
By fostering cross-cultural collaboration and incorporating global trends into our programs, at Raffles Milano, we ensure our students are well-positioned to excel in a rapidly evolving and interconnected world. The institution’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and excellence remains central to its journey of educational leadership.
