Filmmaker and designer Mozez Singh engaged with aspiring fashion professionals at the JD Design Awards 2026, organised by JD Institute of Fashion Technology, through a fireside chat, interactive session and felicitation ceremony that celebrated creativity, storytelling and authentic self-expression.
The session formed part of the institute’s four-day celebration of design, innovation and creative excellence, bringing together students, faculty members and industry professionals for discussions on fashion, design and contemporary creative practices.
During a fireside chat on Luxury Design, Mozez Singh reflected on his creative journey across fashion and filmmaking, sharing perspectives on how storytelling, craftsmanship and luxury have evolved over time. Encouraging students to develop their own creative identities, he urged them to rely on imagination and authenticity rather than following trends.
Addressing the audience, he emphasised the importance of individuality in design, stating, “Fashion helps you express yourself and figure out who you are.” He encouraged students to view design not merely as a profession but as a powerful medium for personal expression.
In recognition of his contribution to the creative industry, Mr. Yogesh Dalal, Trustee of JD Institute of Fashion Technology, and Dr. Payal Dalal, Director of JD Institute of Fashion Technology, felicitated Mozez Singh with the Visionary Filmmaker honour.
The Mumbai edition of JD Design Awards 2026 concluded with a fashion showcase at St. Andrews Auditorium, where 87 emerging designers presented 37 collections inspired by Indian traditions, art and craft, interpreted through a contemporary perspective.
The event also featured The Stock Room, an initiative that enabled students to exhibit and sell their creations while gaining practical exposure to the commercial aspects of the design industry. Overall, the four-day event welcomed 1,334 participants, including industry leaders, buyers, media representatives, alumni and design enthusiasts, creating opportunities for networking and industry engagement.
Reflecting on the experience, Mozez Singh said interacting with young designers was inspiring and praised their willingness to experiment and express themselves creatively. He encouraged them to trust their instincts, remain authentic and create designs that genuinely reflect their identities.
Commenting on the event, Mr. Rinesh Dalal, Director of JD Institute of Fashion Technology, highlighted the importance of providing students with opportunities to interact with established creative professionals and gain practical industry exposure beyond the classroom.
He noted that Mozez Singh’s session offered valuable insights into creativity, authenticity and self-expression, adding that such interactions are equally important as showcasing student talent. He expressed hope that students would continue to design with confidence while embracing originality and innovation.
For more than 27 years, the JD Design Awards have served as a platform for emerging designers to present their work, connect with industry experts and gain real-world exposure. The 2026 Mumbai edition continued this legacy by fostering collaboration, mentorship and meaningful engagement between academia and the creative industry.
