UnderThirty30

Mandy Wozniak (née Davediuk), Class of 2018, reflects on her experience in Lakeland's interior design technology program. She describes what it's like to be named to the NKBA's Thirty Under 30 Class of 2023.

Q: How was your time at Lakeland? What is your best memory of Lakeland?

Unforgettable! There are countless memories from Lakeland that bring a smile to my face. Some include little moments such as late nights in the studio, while other memories are major highlights such as traveling to The Interior Design Show in Toronto. The supportive environment created by staff and instructors really set the tone for my experience.

Q: What inspired you go to into Interior Design Technology?

Space planning truly fascinated me at a young age. Every season I would clean and move the furniture around just to try something different. Interior design felt like a career that would fulfill my desire to create and fuel the inspiration I have always felt. The technical and more analytical side of design challenged me which created a sustainable balance.

Q: How would you describe your interior design style?

Does the furniture, finish, or equipment have sustainability features? Do they honour the culture or landscape that surround it? Will the design serve people to its fullest potential? I find inspiration from nature and Canadian architecture. My goal is to create spaces that resonate with users and serve their needs above all else.

Q: What have you been up to since graduating from Lakeland and Yorkville?

Since completing both my diploma and bachelor’s degree in interior design, I have been busy starting my own interior design studio. Furthermore, my husband and I are building our dream home together on an acreage!

Q: What is your biggest career accomplishment so far?

Implementing my bachelor of interior design thesis project into my local community project The Hive which offers mental health services to youth ages 14-21.

Q: Where would you like your career to take you?

My biggest goal is to embrace the significant role design plays in everyone's life. Interior spaces are where memories are established, family dinners are cooked, and your children open their presents on Christmas morning. It is where you sit by the fire with your loved ones and embrace the everyday moments. Interior design is the tool which cultivates lasting impressions and I plan to continually share this gift throughout my career.

Q: How does it feel to be a member of the NKBA’s Thirty under 30 Class of 2023?

It feels surreal. The first time I went to the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show to accept a second-place kitchen award for the student design competition in 2019, I met a Lakeland alumnus (Charles Kimball) who was selected for the NKBA’s Thirty under 30 award. I remember saying to myself “that is going to be me one day.” I have worked extremely hard and have been blessed with the opportunity to turn my goals into a reality. I am humbled by this opportunity and hope to utilize my experience to positively impact others in the industry.

Q: Any advice for future interior design technology students?

My advice for future interior design technology students would be to work hard and stay inspired. It is important to find a healthy balance between school and your personal life. Make sure you do your best when completing projects. However, ensure you breathe fresh air, nourish your body and laugh lots. Two years at Lakeland will go by quickly so make the most out of them!