Emerging Technologies

Systems, services, research, hardware, or software products created with the aid of recently created or developed software and hardware technologies. Examples include: projects that incorporate the use of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), blockchain technologies, robotics, biometrics, advanced materials or new production processes.

2025 Emerging Technologies Jury

  • Jury Captain

    Almossawi Hussain

    Design Director, Mossawi Studios

    Hussain Almossawi is an industrial designer, visual effects artist and bestselling author who has worked across industries and around the world consulting for companies such as Nike, Apple, Adidas, Intel, and Ford Motor Company, among others. He is a regular keynote speaker on innovation and design and has taught at several universities. In 2019, Hussain founded Mossawi Studios, a multi-disciplinary design studio specializing in creating memorable, iconic, and bold experiences. He loves blurring the lines between product design and CGI, and working on designing futuristic experiences.

  • Jury Member

    Zakaria Adref

    Performance Footwear Designer, Reebok

    Zakaria Adref, a graduate of Carleton University's School of Industrial Design, currently holds the position of Performance Footwear Designer at Reebok. With a diverse background in soft product, Zakaria has accumulated experience in designing products such as technical apparel, bags, boxing gloves, training equipment, headgear, and footwear. His experience extends to working with brands such as Adidas, Marvel, Hayabusa, John Fluevog, Mossawi Studios, and more.

    Fueled by a profound passion for sports, Zakaria is dedicated to enhancing the athlete's experience by navigating the balance between comfort and design for performance.

  • Jury Member

    Yarsep Hanedi

    Sr Designer Global SPW, adidas

    Yarsep Hanedi is a talented footwear designer based in Herzogenaurach, Germany. With over a decade of experience in the industry, he has honed his skills and developed a unique aesthetic that resonates with younger generations.

    Hanedi's career highlights include significant contributions to renowned brands such as adidas, FILA, EAGLE, and OshKosh.

    He is the founder of FOOTWEAR FORUM ID, a design-sharing platform that connects, educates, and promotes young designers in Indonesia. By fostering a supportive community and providing valuable resources, Footwear Forum ID plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of talented footwear designers.

  • Jury Member

    Firas Allouch

    Creative Director, Keep Creating

    Firas Allouch is the Founder and CEO of Keep Creating, LLC, a dynamic media agency renowned for its innovative approach to content creation and branding. With a passion for storytelling and over a decade of experience in the creative industry, Firas has built a reputation as a visionary leader who transforms ideas into impactful campaigns.

    Under his leadership, Keep Creating has grown to manage shoots and branding projects for over 25 clients, spanning diverse industries such as real estate, food and beverage, automotive, and healthcare. Firas thrives on helping businesses connect with their audiences through engaging visuals, strategic marketing, and authentic storytelling.

    A relentless problem-solver, Firas combines his artistic flair with business acumen, ensuring his clients not only stand out but also achieve measurable results. Whether developing social media strategies or crafting compelling video content, his work reflects his commitment to creativity and excellence.

    Beyond his role at Keep Creating, Firas is an advocate for fostering local talent and supporting community-driven initiatives. His entrepreneurial journey inspires others to pursue their passions and keep creating, no matter the challenges.

  • Jury Member

    Andrew Turner

    Founder & Creative Director, Fracture Studios

    Andrew is the founder of Fracture Studios, a footwear design consultancy dedicated to creating unique solutions that aim to disrupt the fast-paced competitive market.

    With over a decade of experience, primarily at Adidas, Andrew has worked across various disciplines, designing cutting-edge, progressive products with a deep foundation of technical knowledge.

    He champions unique thinking to create distinctive designs with compelling narratives that seamlessly blend creativity, purpose and innovation.