Design Without Borders: Inside the New SoFA and IE University Partnership

Over the past decade, SoFA Design Institute has grown into one of the country’s leading hubs for creative education—shaping future designers with the skills, perspective, and confidence to thrive both locally and on the global stage.

Now, the institution takes a bold step forward with the launch of its academic partnership with IE University, a globally recognized institution known for integrating design, business, and innovation across its campuses in Madrid and Segovia.

The collaboration was formally introduced on March 11 at SoFA’s campus at The Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell, Makati City. Designed as a curated gathering of ideas, the launch brought together creatives, educators, and industry leaders to explore how design education can transcend borders.

A key highlight of the event was a Creative Conversation with Flabelus, a brand celebrated for reimagining traditional craftsmanship through modern design and storytelling. The session, led by International PR and Communications Director Pilar Oraa, offered valuable insights into the intersection of heritage and innovation.

Further strengthening the dialogue, IE University’s Senior Associate Director for Business Development, Andrea Pagani, presented new academic pathways available to SoFA students. She was joined by SoFA co-founders Loralee Baron-Soong and Amina Aranaz-Alunan, with the session hosted by Academic Affairs Director Mads Constantino.

Opening Doors to Global Opportunities

Through this partnership, students will gain access to a range of international experiences, including:

• Internship opportunities abroad
• Immersive design tours in Spain
• Exchange programs
• Summer school courses at IE University

These initiatives are designed to expose students to diverse creative environments and equip them with the adaptability needed in today’s global design landscape.

Bridging Local Talent with Global Design

As design education becomes increasingly shaped by cross-cultural collaboration, the ability to engage with international communities while contributing unique perspectives is more important than ever.

By forging connections with institutions like IE University and brands such as Flabelus, SoFA Design Institute is creating meaningful pathways for Filipino creatives to participate in the global design conversation. What began as a specialized design school in Manila is now evolving into a platform where local talent meets international opportunity.

The partnership underscores a shared vision: to empower the next generation of designers with a global mindset—ready to explore new traditions, collaborate across borders, and shape the future of design.

For more information, visit sofa.edu.ph and follow SoFA Design Institute on social media.