Designing a Better World
Crossing continents to study at Pratt Institute, budding interior designer Vani Jain is passionate about promoting inclusivity and environmental justice in her field
Meet Vani Jain, a recent Pratt Institute graduate whose journey from India to the Big Apple and back again is as inspiring as her vision for the future of interior design. In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into Vani's world, exploring her challenges, triumphs, and the passion that drives her to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also empower and heal.
Chasing Her Dreams
Vani's story begins in India, where her curiosity about different cultures and spaces first sparked her interest in design. But it was her bold decision to move to the United States during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic that truly tested her mettle. She persevered and graduated from Pratt Institute with a BFA in Interior Design and a minor in Sustainability Studies.
“I think the transition was definitely difficult and came with a lot of hurdles. But I think what kept me going was not only my family and friends from far away in India supporting me every minute of the day, but also facing those challenges with curiosity and thinking of it as a fortunate opportunity for me to learn and grow.”
Designing with Purpose
For Vani, design is more than aesthetics—it's a powerful tool for positive change. Her passion for environmental justice and empowering women shines through in every project she undertakes. This commitment to purpose-driven design sets her apart in a competitive field.
“I think what truly means to me being a designer as a woman is to make an impact for people who are still unheard. ”
Embracing Challenges
Vani's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. From juggling multiple roles to discovering her identity as a designer, she's faced each challenge head-on with remarkable resilience. Her advice to aspiring designers? Know that you’re stronger than you think, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your voice and your experiences.
“Some of the biggest lessons that I have learned so far is face every challenge. Embrace it. Don’t think of it as unfortunate... embrace your challenge that will help you build your resilience.”
The Future of Design
As an emerging leader in her field, Vani has a clear vision for the future of design—one that embraces technology while prioritizing human wellbeing and environmental sustainability. Her focus on creating spaces that foster mental health and inclusion is particularly poignant in our post-pandemic world.
“It’s not only about the mere aesthetics. It’s about the impact. It’s about the purpose that it serves in everybody’s life.”
You can connect with Vani connect with her on LinkedIn.
Vani Jain's story is more than just a tale of personal success—it's a beacon of hope for anyone daring to dream big and make a difference. Her journey reminds us that with passion, resilience, and a commitment to purpose, we can all contribute to creating a better world.
