October 18, 2026, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): Three Interior Design students from Canadian University Dubai (CUD) have won in the Product Design category at the 2026 D’Light Lighting Design Awards, earning international recognition for lighting fixtures they designed and made at the University.
Sara Safi, Daniil Glazkov and Noura Farahmandi were selected from an outstanding collection of submissions representing nearly 32 countries, evaluated by an international jury.
Each student conceptualized, designed and manufactured their lighting fixture at CUD, bringing their ideas to life through hands-on experimentation, making and design thinking. Taking a product from first idea to finished, working object gave the students experience of every stage of the design process, from concept and form to materials, light and fabrication.
The win is a proud moment for CUD’s Interior Design program, offered by the School of Architecture and Interior Design, and a reflection of the talent, ambition and creative spirit of its students.
Dr. Sophie Johnson, Head of the Department of Interior Design, said: “This achievement demonstrates just how versatile and expansive the discipline of interior design is, empowering our students to move beyond designing spaces to creating lighting as one of the many elements that shape our everyday environments. It is particularly rewarding to see our students’ creativity and design capabilities recognized on an international platform. A fantastic achievement for all three students as they graduate and embark on their professional careers.”
The achievement reflects CUD’s commitment to hands-on design education that prepares students to compete and succeed on an international stage.