Intercultural Communication and Design Leadership
In our interconnected world, diverse cultures bring both opportunities and challenges to communication. Effective cross-cultural communication requires decoding subtle cues beyond spoken language. It includes gestures, customs, and societal norms as well. It also requires empathy, openness, and a willingness to learn from and adapt to other cultures. In the context of intercultural communication, the Hofstede model Hofstede, G. (2011) provides valuable insights into understanding and navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by diverse cultures. The model‘s cultural dimensions, such as power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, and masculinity vs. femininity, help design leaders develop a deeper understanding of cultural differences and tailor their approach accordingly. Design leadership plays a vital role in intercultural communication by promoting cultural sensitivity, facilitating collaboration, using visual language, and adopting a user-centered approach.
Purpose of this product
The purpose of this design project was to have an object which speaks for itself as our cultural reflection. The project encouraged me to delve into self-discovery, exploring my own cultural codes and unique experiences. Through an iterative process guided by design thinking methodologies, I had to refine my creations atleast 7 times. The project aimed to integrate design and human-centered design principles to promote intercultural communication and contribute towards a harmonious global community.
Inspiration (my hometown Multan, Pakistan)
I wanted to create something where the person to whom it is gifted, can deeply feel the essence of the city. Multan is more than 3000 years old city. It gained prominence during the time of the Persian Achaemenid Empire, which held sway over the region in the 6th century BCE. The city was known as „Multa“ or „Mulawand“ during that era and served as an important center for trade and commerce. It was strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes, connecting the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia and the Middle East. Over the centuries, Multan experienced the rise and fall of various kingdoms and dynasties, each leaving its mark on the city‘s architecture, culture, and traditions. Today, Multan is the fifth-largest city in Pakistan and continues to be an important cultural and economic center in the region. The origin of Multan, like many ancient cities, is a culmination of diverse influences, migrations, and historical events. Its long and storied history reflects the cultural, religious, and political interactions that have shaped the region over millennia.
Labyrinth of streets (Concept)
Multan has been a crossroads of civilizations, a melting pot of cultures, and a center of trade and exchange throughout its history. Navigating the streets and alleys of Multan can feel like traversing a labyrinth, where one encounters layers of history, architecture, languages, and traditions at every turn. Additionally, Multan‘s spiritual significance and association with Sufism, a mystical tradition within Islam, can also align with the labyrinth‘s symbolic meaning. Sufism emphasizes the inner spiritual journey and the search for divine truth within oneself. Like a labyrinth, Sufism invites seekers to navigate the complexities of the self and reach a state of spiritual enlightenment. Therefore, considering Multan as a labyrinth can capture its historical depth, cultural diversity, and the spiritual quest for truth and self-discovery that is integral to its identity. Apart from these reasons, most of Multani craftsmen are still living in the old city. They are unknown and unrecognised even by newer generation of the city.
MoodBoard
Process Work for developing the game and packaging
Material
I decided to use Clay as my main material for this object. Clay really renders the essence of the history and cultural heritage which Multan holds.
Game Guide
I translated the guide in three languages Urdu, English and German. I developed this product in Germany and tested with the diverse community here before reaching the shown final object.
Urdu, is my native and National Language of Pakistan.
Urdu, is my native and National Language of Pakistan.
Final Product
