Abstract

The Final_Final Project is a dual-faceted pedagogical intervention that explores decolonised methodologies for teaching graphic design to Black and Brown students. Both the live programme and its publication activate the same practice: addressing systemic exclusion by facilitating a communal “village” that operates outside traditional academic structures.

While the program provides an immediate, active space for students to build professional confidence and navigate industry barriers through mentorship, its accompanying research serves as the archival and discursive extension of this work, ensuring that these lived experiences become part of the design canon. Together, these outputs provide a safety net and a sense of belonging, transforming the educational environment from one of isolation into one of collective professional agency.

Session and activities

The initiative is led by Zarna Hart in collaboration with Eddie Niles of BA Graphic Design at Camberwell College of the Arts. Together, they share knowledge in technical proficiency with professional development, through the format of weekly mentorship sessions, group discussions, portfolio guidance, guest talks and workshops. Students receive specific guidance on navigating the working world, from overcoming imposter syndrome and recognising systemic barriers to entry to mastering practical skills like public speaking, CV writing, and drafting designer biographies. This holistic support system ensures that students’ portfolios are not neglected, but instead reflect their full potential and technical capability.

Collaboration and networking are core components of the experience, as the program hosts a series of talks with global majority design professionals and UAL staff to help students forge lasting relationships within the design community in London. These interactions help bridge the gap between education and industry, providing students with real-world insights and role models. The program also places a heavy emphasis on peer morale and self-esteem, fostering a contingent of diverse representation that strengthens the university’s legacy and inspires prospective students to enter the field.

Since the program’s pilot in February 2025, it has empowered +25 global majority students from the course, has received funding for an upcoming publication of its findings and material, and is set to expand in the coming academic year for both 2nd and 3rd years concurrently. 

Recent data (2025/26 Autum-Winter Term) confirms that the program has significantly improved the student experience by making the final year feel more organised and less overwhelming. Participants have described the Wednesday sessions as highly manageable and well-integrated with their academic schedules. Every student surveyed reported that the communication and support provided by the program were exceptional. Qualitatively, the program is recognised for providing “new courses of action” through group tutorials, such as those led by Zarna. The success of this model is evidenced by high retention rates, with nearly all participants (9 students) expressing a strong intent to continue the program through to their graduation.

”The sessions are a nice break from our scheduled lessons because there is less pressure. I find it easier to discuss my work with Zarna in a more relaxed environment. I have learnt a lot from the portfolio reviews that I never considered, and it was helpful having different opinions from professionals and hearing their experiences in the industry. It was nice that they were speaking to us rather than at us. 

Having a safe space where my peers shared their anxieties about graduation or unit 10 felt like a huge weight off my shoulders. After each session I learnt something new, either from the activities Zarna had planned or the discussions on the table. It was also nice to listen to people from my class and see their work each week. 

The feedback from Zarna is very appreciated and encouraging. Her advice is critical and relevant, challenging us to think thoughtfully about our work. It has been very beneficial for us third years to access extra support. We get a lot done in a short amount of time and it doesn’t take much out of our day to attend. I would really recommend trying it out! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” 

Angel Dismas, Final_Final Alumni 2024/25

 

”I’ve found the Wednesday sessions with Zarna extremely helpful, not only to catch up on my work and receive feedback, but also because I often leave each session feeling much better about my progress or with a clearer idea of how to move forward when I’m feeling stuck. I also enjoy the aspect of being in a small group and having conversations about our projects. It’s comforting to know that we’re all in the same boat and going through this journey together. It feels validating to hear someone else express the exact same feelings I’ve had during a project. In addition, Zarna has brought in multiple speakers who have shared valuable insights into the industry, giving me more clarity on how to navigate life after graduation. These sessions also provide a welcome break from overthinking my projects. They allow me to reflect and take a step back, which has helped reduce my stress while working on my Unit 10 project. Overall, I am grateful to be able to take part in this programme and only wish it had started earlier!”

Ellouise Lagunzad, Final_Final Alumni 2024/25

 

”The sessions have been so helpful in structuring my workload throughout the week. Also it’s super insightful having someone who understands the nuances of working in an environment where you might to be the only person of colour. This means that I can better prepare for how I present myself to future employers in interviews and networking situations.”

Iara Cardeira, Final_Final Alumni 2024/25