Over the last 12 weeks, Franna proudly engaged with St Paul’s school in Brisbane’s northern suburbs and participated in the innovative Design Led Ventures (DLV) program. This pioneering initiative tasks a group of ten 12-17 year old students with finding an area the business could improve on and developing a solution for improvement.  The aim of the program is to nurture creative and entrepreneurial thinking among young minds while bringing a fresh perspective to our operations.

The DLV journey commenced with a comprehensive client consultation and multiple face to face interviews on site, followed by a factory tour in our Eagle Farm manufacturing facility, a pivotal step in allowing the students to uncover a business challenge. The students presented the Franna team with growth opportunity (business challenge) to seek validation. 

Market research followed suit, affording the students a deep dive into our industry, uncovering trends, and extracting valuable insights. Ideation then took precedence, as the young consultants ideated and conceptualised their ideas.

The prototyping phase was particularly impressive, as abstract ideas were materialised into a tangible protype. This hands-on approach allowed for iterative refinement, ensuring that the proposed solutions were not only imaginative but also feasible.

One of the most gratifying moments was witnessing the students present their ideas. This culmination of weeks of hard work, creativity, and strategic thinking left us in awe. The depth and ingenuity of their proposed solution was extremely close to actual solutions that Franna were considering.

"Our experience with DLV was nothing short of remarkable. Witnessing these young minds engage with our business challenge, and subsequently presenting innovative solutions was truly inspiring. The energy, creativity, and dedication they brought to the table left a lasting impression on us." - Christine Richeux, HR Manager

Our partnership with Design Led Ventures at St Paul's School has been a journey of innovation, collaboration, and fun! By empowering young minds to serve as consultants, DLV not only shapes the next generation of creative thinkers and problem solvers but also leaves an enduring imprint on businesses, communities, and industry practices. It's a testament to the potential that resides within youth, and the boundless possibilities that come from thinking beyond convention.

Franna takes immense pride in its role in this transformative experience and to commence a journey of engage with education institutes for mutual benefit.