Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design.

The industry sees the surface. We reveal the layers. Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design 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. Representation isn’t optional. It’s foundational. New episodes twice a month.

Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design. is a society podcast hosted by David Oku, with 18 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

David Oku hosts Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design., a society show with 18 episodes published.

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  Episode #18

  Episode 18: Finding Purpose Through Photography - with Kaya Dawkins

  Jul 12, 202631 minS1

  In this episode, we sit down with photographer Kaya Dawkins to explore her creative journey, the art of portrait photography, and what it takes to build a meaningful career behind the lens. 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. 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. This is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, connection, self-discovery, and transforming artistic vision into meaningful opportunities.

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  Episode #17

  Episode 17: From B&W to Bold Typography | Design, Burnout & Creative Growth -with Hust Wilson

  Jun 28, 202650 minS1

  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. 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. 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. 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.

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  Episode #16

  Episode 16: Finding Your Authentic Voice - with Maxime Manga

  Jun 25, 202657 minS1

  What happens when you reject expectations and create entirely on your own terms? In Episode 16 of Hidden Layers , we sit down with Maxime Manga , 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. 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. 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. In this episode, you'll discover: How Maxime taught himself art from childhood manga drawings Why he left medicine to pursue a creative career His unique collage process using unconventional materials How emotion drives every piece he creates The challenges facing emerging artists in Cameroon and across Africa Maintaining artistic integrity while working with commercial clients The power of collaboration and creative community Why persistence and long-term thinking are essential for artistic success Breaking stereotypes around masculinity, vulnerability, and self-expression 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.

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  Episode #15

  Episode 15: Finding Your Visual Language with Russell Abrahams aka Yay Abe

  Jun 21, 202653 minS1

  What separates artists who get noticed from those who get remembered? In Episode 15, we sit down with Cape Town-based multidisciplinary artist Russell Abrahams, better known as @yay_abe, to explore how developing a distinctive visual language became the catalyst for transforming his creative career. From illustration and murals to sculpture and international exhibitions, Russell shares how consistency in style and storytelling helped him build a recognisable artistic identity across multiple mediums. He unpacks the process of finding your creative voice, why visual language matters more than trends, and how artists can use it to create deeper connections with audiences and opportunities alike. We also dive into the realities of building a sustainable career in the arts. Russell offers practical insights on navigating creative challenges, overcoming industry limitations, creating multiple income streams, and cultivating a supportive community that fuels long-term growth. Throughout the conversation, Russell reflects on his journey from sketching anime characters as a young boy to becoming one of South Africa's most exciting contemporary visual artists. He discusses experimentation, colour theory, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to your values while pursuing creative excellence.

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  Episode #14

  Episode 14: Art, Confidence & Creative Resilience - with Troy Browne

  May 27, 202643 minS1

  <p>Step into the boundary-pushing world of Troy Browne, a UK-based multimedia artist whose collage work blends emotion, experimentation, and storytelling in bold new ways. In this episode, Troy opens up about his unconventional journey into the creative industry, from lacking confidence as a young artist to becoming a respected freelancer known for combining collage, animation, 3D, and illustration into immersive visual experiences. He shares how the uncertainty of COVID became a turning point in his career, sparking an explosion of creative output that reshaped his artistic direction and helped him discover his voice. Troy discusses the emotional realities of...

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