TDK Awards celebrates 5 academics with top global recognition

TDK Awards celebrate exceptional emerging talent in the international design industry, as well as the introduction of a new category - 2023 Top 30 Lecturers, where Billy Blue academics remarkably landed 5 of those spots for Caro Hunt, Kuen Kam, Mel Maher, Robbie Carter, and Luis Lobos.

From 1 November 2023 – 13 January 2024, global entries culminated in the selection of 30 individuals who stand out as the hottest new talent A-Z entering 2024, as well as 30 phenomenal lecturers, described as the unsung heroes of the design industry voted on by all student entrants.

“This accolade is testament to our team culture, and I feel this is pushed through into the teaching,” said Dr Michelle Douglas, Associate Professor, Program Director of Creative Technology Torrens University Australia.

“Our teachers are the most passionate academics I have had the pleasure of working with, and I'm proud that this recognition puts Torrens firmly on the global map for design school student experience.”

The Top 30 included lecturers from United States of America, Australia, New Zealand, and United Kingdom.

“This achievement speaks volumes about our lecturers’ dedication and the significant impact they have made within our student community, earning well-deserved recognition on a global scale,” said Elicia Simon, Program Director Diploma of Graphic Design and Bachelor of Communication Design, Torrens University Australia.

“The recognition underscores our culture of excellence fostered at Billy Blue College of Design and reaffirms our commitment to nurturing top-tier talent. It's also truly inspiring to be recognised alongside luminaries like world-renowned Graphic Designer Ellen Lupton, whose influential work, including 'Design is Storytelling,' continues to shape and elevate the design landscape,” added Elicia.

Collectively, the university’s award-winning lecturers view this as an opportunity to mentor and better prepare their students by fostering their growth and development.

“I'm absolutely stoked to be recognised in this way. To know that this recognition comes from the students makes it truly special,” said Caro Hunt.” Their acknowledgment is the most meaningful reward for a lecturer, so thank you for this incredible honour.”

“I am thrilled to be recognised as one of the Top 30 lecturers in 2023. I pride myself on building positive relationships with my students, and to be acknowledged in this way is truly appreciated,” said Kuen Kam. “I am thankful to be included amongst a list of my peers and colleagues who I respect and have a high regard for in the design industry.”

“When I heard that I had won this award, I was left stuttering in shock. I sought to help recent graduates apply for the TDK awards but never expected to win one myself. I felt like screaming from a mountain,” said Robbie Carter.