The DESIS Network is delighted to highlight the upcoming Cumulus South Africa 2025 Conference, taking place from 26–28 November 2025 in the dynamic and culturally rich city of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Hosted by the University of Johannesburg in partnership with the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, this biannual, double-blind peer-reviewed conference brings together global leaders in design education, research, and practice. It stands as a significant platform for advancing conversation and collaboration at the intersection of design, social innovation, and technological transformation.

Theme: Design Intelligence and the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR)

Under the theme “Design Intelligence and 5IR”, Cumulus South Africa 2025 invites academics, educators, practitioners, and students to reflect on how design can shape a future where technological advancement aligns with human values.

As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), characterised by automation, data-driven systems, and digital integration, the emerging Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) re-centres empathy, inclusion, and human-centeredness. This conference provides a critical space to explore how Design Intelligence can lead this transition toward more ethical and sustainable futures.

Participants will engage with three core sub-themes:

Ubuntu: Exploring design approaches rooted in humanity, care, and community.
Metaverse: Understanding the evolving relationship between digital and physical realities.
New Materiality: Investigating innovative materials shaped by sustainability, emerging technologies, and AI.

These themes resonate strongly with DESIS Network values, reinforcing the role of design as a catalyst for social innovation and systemic change.

The conference activities will begin with an Opening Ceremony on 25 November at 18:00, bringing together delegates from across the world to set the tone for three days of dialogue, collaboration, and forward-thinking exploration.

https://cumulussouthafrica2025.uj.ac.za/programme/

Why Johannesburg?

As Africa’s creative and economic hub, Johannesburg provides a vibrant and meaningful backdrop for discussions on design, technology, and social transformation. Its unique blend of innovation, resilience, and cultural richness aligns with the spirit of this year’s conference and the DESIS Network’s commitment to socially responsive design.

Looking Ahead

Cumulus South Africa 2025 is set to be a landmark gathering, one that fosters critical conversations, showcases pioneering research, and strengthens global collaboration across the design community.

The DESIS Network looks forward to the insights and innovations that will emerge from this influential convening in Johannesburg.