WDCast

WDCast #3: Can a Moment Spark a Movement?

The third episode of our WDCast explores the question of what remains after the WDC year: Can a moment spark a movement?

What actually remains after WDC 2026? What can a year as World Design Capital really change – for a city, for a region? 

In this episode we explore exactly that: the impact of being World Design Capital and how something long-lasting – even a movement – can emerge from this moment of global spotlight. We explore impact from different perspectives: economic, institutional and cultural. 

We begin with a statement by Andréa Springer (Acting Managing Director of WDO). After that, guests from previous WDC cities – Mai Thi Nguyen (San Diego–Tijuana 2024) and Richard Perez (Cape Town 2014) – share their experiences of measurable outcomes and long-term effects. Svenja Bickert-Appleby (New Order Design), who is also involved in the WDC project Circular Citizens, brings the focus back to Frankfurt RheinMain.

The episode is in English.