Design Students Unite Across Borders for Cultural Synergy Global Cyber Charette
In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to collaborate across cultures is more valuable than ever. The American University in Dubai (AUD) is at the forefront of fostering this global perspective through innovative educational initiatives like the culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette.
What is the Cultural Synergy Global Cyber Charette?
The culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette is an annual event that brings together design students from diverse backgrounds studying in universities across various countries. This unique initiative, now in its seventh year, provides a platform for students to engage in interdisciplinary and international collaboration, addressing real-world design challenges through a global lens.
This year’s theme, “design beyond boundaries,” invited participants to explore how design can support intercultural connection through shared rituals. These rituals, which can be personal or communal, include activities such as greeting, gathering, storytelling, or eating. By focusing on these universal human experiences, students were encouraged to create designs that foster understanding and connection across cultural divides.
A Collaborative Learning Experience
The 2026 culturalSYNERGY charette saw participation from seven universities across five countries, with students working in interdisciplinary teams to address the design challenge. This collaborative approach not only enhances students’ design skills but also develops their ability to work effectively in diverse teams – a crucial skill in today’s globalized workforce.
Prof. Chadi El Tabbah and Dr. Poupak Parvaresh led the initiative as part of IDES292, Studio IV, Space Planning and Universal Design. Their guidance ensured that students not only focused on the design aspects but also reflected on their unique positionality, including privileges and biases, that they each bring to the design process.
Beyond Design: Fostering Global Citizenship
The culturalSYNERGY initiative goes beyond traditional design education. It aims to empower design students as global citizens, equipping them with the skills and mindset to enact positive change in an increasingly diverse world. By engaging with peers from different cultural backgrounds, students gain a deeper understanding of global perspectives and learn to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural communication and collaboration.
This approach aligns with AUD’s broader mission to produce holistic, creative, interdisciplinary, and transformative graduates for the sustainable advancement of society. The university’s commitment to fostering global citizenship is evident in its diverse student body, international partnerships, and innovative programs like the culturalSYNERGY charette.
The Impact of Cultural Synergy
Events like the culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette have far-reaching impacts on students’ personal and professional development. Participants gain:
- Enhanced cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Improved communication and collaboration skills across cultural boundaries
- A broader perspective on global design challenges and solutions
- Experience in working with diverse teams and managing cross-cultural projects
- A network of international peers and potential future collaborators
These skills are increasingly valuable in the global job market, where employers seek candidates who can navigate diverse work environments and contribute to international projects.
AUD’s Commitment to Global Education
The culturalSYNERGY initiative is just one example of AUD’s commitment to providing a globally-oriented education. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including Architecture, Business Administration, Engineering, Communication, and Design, all of which incorporate global perspectives into their curricula.
AUD’s location in Dubai, a global hub for business and culture, provides students with unique opportunities to engage with diverse communities and industries. The university’s partnerships with institutions worldwide further enhance its global outlook, offering students opportunities for study abroad and international collaborations.
Looking to the Future
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, initiatives like the culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette will play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of designers, business leaders, and global citizens. By fostering cross-cultural collaboration and understanding, AUD is not only enhancing its students’ educational experience but also contributing to a more interconnected and harmonious global community.
For students interested in participating in future culturalSYNERGY events or exploring AUD’s diverse range of programs, the university offers various resources and opportunities. From campus tours to information sessions, prospective students can get a firsthand look at how AUD is shaping the future of global education.
The culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette stands as a testament to the power of design in bridging cultural divides and the importance of global collaboration in addressing complex challenges. As AUD continues to innovate in its approach to education, initiatives like this will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of global leaders and changemakers.
Join the Global Design Community
Are you ready to be part of a global design community that transcends borders? The American University in Dubai invites you to explore its diverse range of programs and join the next culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette. Whether you’re a prospective student, a design professional, or an educator, there are numerous ways to get involved and contribute to this exciting initiative.
Visit the AUD website to learn more about the culturalSYNERGY program, explore undergraduate and graduate opportunities, or schedule a campus visit. Take the first step towards becoming a global citizen and design professional who can make a difference in our interconnected world.
Apply now to join the American University in Dubai and be part of the next culturalSYNERGY global cyber charette. Your journey to becoming a globally-minded design professional starts here.
