- SoFA Design Institute in Manila announced a new academic partnership with IE University in Spain to expand global design education opportunities.
- The collaboration was unveiled at the event 'Creativity without Borders' in Makati City, highlighting cross-cultural learning and international collaboration for design students.
- Spanish footwear brand Flabelus also participated in the event, showcasing its modern take on traditional Spanish shoe designs and engaging with students and designers.
The SoFA Design Institute in the Manila is expanding its global footprint after announcing a new academic partnership with IE University in Spain, an institution known for combining design, business, and innovation in its programs. The collaboration marks an important step for the Philippine design school as it continues to connect its students with international creative networks and opportunities.
The partnership was formally introduced during an event titled 'Creativity without Borders: a Bridge between Manila and Spain', held at the institute’s campus at The Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell, Makati City. The gathering brought together designers, students, and industry professionals to discuss the growing importance of cross-cultural collaboration in shaping the future of design education. Through this partnership, students from both institutions are expected to benefit from shared learning experiences, exposure to global perspectives, and opportunities to collaborate across cultures.
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A key highlight of the event was a creative conversation featuring representatives from Flabelus, a Spanish footwear label that has gained attention for reinventing traditional Spanish shoe designs with a modern aesthetic. Pilar Oraa, the brand’s International PR and Communications Director, spoke about how craftsmanship, comfort, and timeless style remain at the heart of the company’s philosophy. She shared that the brand was born during the pandemic and quickly grew in popularity through word-of-mouth, particularly among travelers visiting Spain who began to see the shoes as a must-buy item.
Guests at the event also had the chance to view several Flabelus designs displayed at the venue, alongside a pop-up installation currently running at Power Plant Mall. The showcase allowed attendees to experience firsthand the blend of traditional inspiration and contemporary design that the brand promotes.
For SoFA Design Institute, partnerships with global institutions and creative brands represent more than just collaboration. They serve as a pathway for Filipino designers to participate in the wider international design conversation. School leaders emphasized that design education continues to evolve through dialogue, cooperation, and openness to new ideas across borders.
Over the years, the institute has grown from a specialized design school in Manila into a platform where aspiring designers, students, and industry professionals can engage with global perspectives. By connecting with international partners, the school hopes to nurture a new generation of Filipino creatives who are confident working across cultures and industries.
