At PHOENIX, we believe design is about exploring possibilities, challenging boundaries, and shaping the future. This spirit came alive during our Girls' Day—Mädchen-Zukunftstag 2025, when we opened our doors to a new generation of fearless creators.
On Girls' Day, ten bright, curious young girls stepped into our studio. For many, it was their first encounter with professional design and innovation. Greeted by Lars Baumann's heartfelt welcome, they weren't just shown around—they were invited to become part of our world.
With our PHOENIX YoYo Toolkit, the girls designed, experimented, and even failed — an essential part of the creative process. With guidance from our interns, Sina Buchal and Andrea Weingrill, and Aditi Surana, Industrial Designer who also gave the workshop in India, they realised that design is not about perfection; it's about iteration, imagination, and perseverance.
The energy in our studio was electric. Inspired by our earlier success in India, the workshop format once again exceeded all expectations. Each activity was designed to empower, encouraging the girls to think critically, express creatively, and solve real-world problems — skills that lie at the very heart of design.
"It was incredible to see how naturally the girls embrace design. With our YoYo toolkit, they explored, experimented, and created with joy and confidence. There was no hesitation, no doubt—just curiosity. Moments like this ground me and show why it's so important to open up our profession to the next generation," said Lars Baumann, senior design strategist and organiser of the event.
Girls'Day at PHOENIX is more than a workshop. It's a message: Design is for everyone. Creativity knows no gender. And when given the right tools and trust, young minds can shape a future beyond outdated stereotypes.
At PHOENIX, we see design as a journey of continuous growth. Like the young girls who joined us for Girls' Day, we believe that exploration, failure, and rethinking are essential steps toward innovation. By encouraging this mindset early, we aim to contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and dynamic future for design and beyond.
"Thank you very much for the fascinating insights and such a well-organised and inspiring Girls'Day! My daughter was part of the group and came home full of excitement, new impressions, ideas, and motivation.
It is truly impressive to see the passion and openness with which you show young girls what is possible. Experiences like this make a real difference. Sincere thanks to the entire team for your dedication and commitment!"—said Manuella La Noutelle, the mother of one of our visitors.
By opening our studio to young women, we are not just showcasing careers in design—we are showing what's possible when curiosity and courage meet opportunity. To every girl who has ever been told, "This job isn't for you" we proudly say, "Come and see for yourself."
A special thank you to Lars Baumann for his incredible organisation and to the brilliant women of PHOENIX who shared their journeys, inspiring the next generation to dream big, design boldly, and grow fearlessly.
