I am an Assistant Professor of Design at School of Textiles and Design, Heriot -Watt University, where I am an Undergrad and Postgrad Programme Director of Studies, Director of Academic Quality and Research Impact Lead.For nearly 30years I have been a designer, an academic and creative explorer. I am a design thinker with a passion for the subject’s ability to set agendas and to make change happen. An example of which has been my PhD work “Empowering People Living with Dementia Through Desigining” which is highly symbolic of my Co-design practices.Since 1996 I have been developing a strong and diverse art and design skill-set. During this time I have undertaken practice and research in a variety of sectors but always with a strong sense of social empowerment and design for purposeful influence. This has involved health, wellbeing, placemaking, lighting, public art, education and training, new technology integration and systems delivery, public engagement and performances through light, interpretation and exhibition.As a director of Studio Winton my focus has been in curation of the urban realm, heritage environments and placemaking. Through site specific artworks and lighting, I reveal unknown aspects, develop hidden stories and connect communities to their locale.In creating and leading undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in areas from digital arts, interaction and graphic design through to lighting, exhibition products and interiors I have considerable experience in nurturing design talent. As a Programme Director, lecturer and researcher my work has engaged in future forecasting and recognizing emerging trends and tools. I take great joy in exploring new ventures, developing new skills, and questioning situations. As a highly creative person, I am most interested in the design and production of thoughtful people-focussed experiences and/or opportunities.Through considerate methods and project management, I have delivered for multinationals, government bodies, education, private enterprises, entrepreneurs, research centers and funders, museums and galleries, municipalities and international organizations.Throughout my career I have designed and delivered work to the highest standards garnering many national and international awards along the way. I have had the privilege of presenting my research nationally and internationally and have delivered short courses on design methods and practices in China and India. In 2018, I was immensely proud to present a lecture on my work for people living with dementia at the House of Lords.