Yolanda Okereke 
When I first imagined ‘The Science of Design Masterclass’, it began as a question — what truly makes a great designer? Is it talent, instinct, or discipline? The answer, I discovered, lies in the balance between all three. Design, like science, is an experiment of thought, observation, and transformation. It is where imagination meets method — and that intersection became the foundation of this masterclass.
God laid the whole idea in my heart, including the names ‘Science of Design and The Master.’
The Birth of a Concept
For years, I’ve worked in film, fashion, and costume design — building worlds, shaping identities, and telling stories through clothes. Yet, each time I encountered young creatives eager to learn, I saw a gap — a need for structured mentorship that went beyond aesthetics. Too often, the conversation around design focused only on beauty, not on the why behind it.
That realization birthed ‘The Science of Design’ — a framework that breaks down creativity into four key pillars: Observation, Experiment, Analysis, and Conclusion. It’s not just about teaching how to design; it’s about understanding how to think like a designer.
From Vision to Reality
Bringing this concept to life was a journey of courage, collaboration, and conviction. I envisioned a space where creatives could learn, experiment, and engage with industry leaders — a true laboratory for design. The curriculum was carefully built to blend theory and practice: from mood boards to motion, from storytelling to structure.
When the first edition of ‘The Science of Design Masterclass’ opened its doors, I was humbled to see the energy, talent, and hunger for knowledge in the room. It wasn’t just a class — it was a creative awakening. Each session was filled with discovery; every conversation revealed new perspectives. Watching participants connect the dots between art, storytelling, and purpose reminded me why this mission mattered so deeply.
An Empowerment Movement
But ‘The Science of Design’ was never meant to be a one-off experience. It is an empowerment scheme — a growing ecosystem of mentorship, access, and opportunity for emerging designers, filmmakers, and creative entrepreneurs.
We’re not only training minds; we’re building confidence, networks, and sustainable creative careers. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring that every designer — regardless of background — has the tools and knowledge to thrive on both local and global stages.
The Future is Now
As I reflect on this journey, I’m deeply grateful for the creative community, facilitators, and industry partners who believed in this vision. The success of this first edition is only the beginning. The future of design is collaborative, cross-disciplinary, and limitless — and I’m proud that ‘The Science of Design’ stands as a catalyst for that transformation. Because design isn’t just what we create — it’s who we become in the process.
Yolanda Okereke is a visionary fashion entrepreneur and respected industry leader, known for her exceptional work as a Costume Designer and Creative Producer in Film and Television. With over a decade of experience, she has consistently shaped the visual identity of some of Nollywood’s most iconic productions, earning a reputation for her artistic depth, organisational precision, and bold storytelling through costume.
She is the Founder and Head of The Rani Company, a leading costume design and styling firm, and The Wardrobe Shack, a costume rental house serving high-profile film and television projects across Nigeria.