Designing Success: Joanne Odisho's path to Graduate of the Year

In the world of design, where creativity and innovation are key, student Joanne Odisho stands out as a beacon of inspiration.

Recently awarded the Design Institute of Australia’s Graduate of the Year 2023 (GOTYA) award in the Vocational Category, Joanne's journey into furniture design is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, hard work, and the right guidance.

Joanne's love for design began with an interest in interiors.

"I’ve always loved how thoughtful design can transform a space" she said.

But it was after completing her studies in interior design, she found her true calling in furniture design, away from the pressures of working with clients.

"Furniture design allowed me to express my creativity freely, without the bounds of clientele."

"The objects within a space play a large role in how the design all comes together."

Two separate images of Graduate of Award winner

Joanne Odisho was recently awarded the Design Institute of Australia’s graduate of the Year award for 2023.

Joanne explained why she chose RMIT for her Associate Degree in Design (Furniture), delivered by the College of Vocational Education.

"I chose RMIT because it offered a unique and comprehensive program that combined theoretical knowledge, design, and practical skills, which was necessary to excel in this field."

This multifaceted approach allowed her to delve deeply into design ideas while improving her skills.

Among her various projects, the Summit stool holds a special place in Joanne's heart.

"The Summit stool is inspired by the idea of reaching the pinnacle of a mountain,” she said.

Crafted with compostable paper pulp, the stool not only represents a creative exploration of form and function but also aligns with Joanne's commitment to sustainable design and meaningful symbolism.

Mette Stryhn, Furniture Design teacher, praised Joanne’s design skills and creativity. one of Joanne’s Design studio teachers.

“Joanne is an incredibly smart designer who started her studies with a lot of amazing ideas," said Mette.

"While there were a lot of people helping and guiding her through the project, she was definitely taking centre stage and driving her creations."

Joanne credits her enriching experience at RMIT to the College and its support.

The accessibility and willingness of the College to address any questions or concerns created an incredibly nurturing learning environment.

"Winning this award validated the hard work and dedication I had poured into my vocational journey."

"The recognition further fuelled my passion for design and reaffirmed my commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity in my field."

From 163 nominations, 73 were Shortlisted, and just 9 designers were awarded the prestigious Graduate of the Year prize.

And while Joanne takes out the top title, there were many other RMIT students who were also recognised by the Awards:

Chloe Mitchell (Category: Use—Higher Education)
Emily Thursfield (Category: Place—Vocational)
Evangeline Rosa (Category: Use—Higher Education)
Jedda Bahloo (Category: Use—Higher Education)
Lachlan Cashman (Category: Use—Vocational)
Maria Tongson (Category: Interact—Higher Education)

Story: Giulio Mancuso

03 October 2023

More student news

A student sitting in a common area with a laptop, headphones around their neck

Your RMIT Google Drive is being decommissioned

29 Apr 2024

You need to migrate any content you might have in your RMIT Google Drive before 31 May 2024.

Students REAP the rewards through elite athlete program

26 Apr 2024

Orienteering champion Sophie Taverna shares how RMIT's Elite Athlete Program (REAP) has her back.

Bachelor of Business graduate celebrated for outstanding community impact

15 Apr 2024

Violet Minehan was awarded the prestigious College of Business and Law Medal at the Best of Business and Law Awards.

Woman in a purple hat poses for a photo.

“I can’t recommend anywhere else!” — Why RMIT is number one for students

10 Apr 2024

Architecture and Design students share why RMIT is the nation’s number one institution for design and creative fields.

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

More information

Designing Success: Joanne Odisho's path to Graduate of the Year