Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design.
Claim This Podcastby David Oku
Podcast Overview
<p><b>The industry sees the surface. We reveal the layers.</b></p><p></p><p><i>Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design</i> centres the voices of designers whose stories have been overlooked but whose impact is undeniable. Through unfiltered conversations, we explore how Black, Brown, and marginalised creatives are building careers, shaping culture, and expanding what design looks like.</p><p></p><p>Representation isn’t optional.<br />It’s foundational.</p><p></p><p>New episodes twice a month.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
2/24/2026
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Recent Episodes
July 13, 2026
Episode 18: Finding Purpose Through Photography - with Kaya Dawkins
<p>In this episode, we sit down with photographer <b>Kaya Dawkins</b> to explore her creative journey, the art of portrait photography, and what it takes to build a meaningful career behind the lens.</p><p>Kaya shares the challenges she faced early in her career, the importance of building a supportive creative community, and why creating safe spaces for self-expression is at the heart of her work. She also discusses navigating relationships within the industry, the growing influence of AI on photography, and how photographers can adapt while staying true to their artistic vision.</p><p>Looking ahead, Kaya gives us a glimpse into her upcoming exhibition, her vision for future community projects, and her commitment to empowering others through photography.</p><p>This is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, connection, self-discovery, and transforming artistic vision into meaningful opportunities.</p>
June 29, 2026
Episode 17: From B&W to Bold Typography | Design, Burnout & Creative Growth -with Hust Wilson
<p>In this episode of Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design, David sits down with Hust Wilson, a graphic designer and lettering artist based in Johannesburg, South Africa, to explore the evolution of his creative journey.</p><p></p><p>Hust shares how he began drawing as a child, moved from hyper-realistic black-and-white portraits into lettering, and built a style shaped by typography, tattoo culture, dance, and experimentation across 3D, animation, and branding. They also discuss the realities of creative burnout, the importance of rest, and why staying curious matters for long-term growth.</p><p></p><p>The conversation goes deeper into the power of community, the value of mentorship, and how social media has changed for artists. Hust opens up about believing in your work, pushing ideas into action, and creating art that inspires rather than just performs online.</p><p></p><p>If you’re a designer, lettering artist, or creative looking for motivation and a fresh perspective on staying authentic in your craft, this episode is for you.</p>
June 26, 2026
Episode 16: Finding Your Authentic Voice - with Maxime Manga
<p>What happens when you reject expectations and create entirely on your own terms?</p><p></p><p>In Episode 16 of <b>Hidden Layers</b>, we sit down with <b>Maxime Manga</b>, a self-taught multidisciplinary artist from Cameroon whose journey from drawing manga as a child to creating emotionally charged collage artworks is a masterclass in authenticity, resilience, and fearless self-expression.</p><p></p><p>Maxime shares how he walked away from a medical career to pursue art full-time, why he refuses to compromise his creative vision, and how he transforms everyday materials—including discarded paper, cigar ash, and digital tools like Photoshop—into powerful visual narratives.</p><p></p><p>We also explore the deeper themes behind his work: vulnerability, masculinity, rebellion, identity, and the importance of staying true to your voice in a world that constantly encourages conformity.</p><h3>In this episode, you'll discover:</h3><ul><li>How Maxime taught himself art from childhood manga drawings</li><li>Why he left medicine to pursue a creative career</li><li>His unique collage process using unconventional materials</li><li>How emotion drives every piece he creates</li><li>The challenges facing emerging artists in Cameroon and across Africa</li><li>Maintaining artistic integrity while working with commercial clients</li><li>The power of collaboration and creative community</li><li>Why persistence and long-term thinking are essential for artistic success</li><li>Breaking stereotypes around masculinity, vulnerability, and self-expression</li></ul><p></p><p>Whether you're an artist, designer, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for the courage to pursue your passion, this conversation offers an inspiring reminder that your greatest work begins when you embrace your authentic self.</p>
18 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design.?
<p><b>The industry sees the surface. We reveal the layers.</b></p><p></p><p><i>Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design</i> centres the voices of designers whose stories have been overlooked but whose impact is undeniable. Through unfiltered conversations, we explore how Black, Brown, and marginalised creatives are building careers, shaping culture, and expanding what design looks like.</p><p></p><p>Representation isn’t optional.<br />It’s foundational.</p><p></p><p>New episodes twice a month.</p> - How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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