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.

Listen to it here soon!