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  • I was inspired by this article on how reading can improve your life in so many ways.
  • If you’re struggling to fit it in, reading can fill in the gaps in your day, it can brighten up the commute no end.
  • One member was drawn back to reading when they completed their masters. Encouraged by tutors to read around the subject to develop a unique perspective; this has stood them in good stead and now shapes the way they write and structure arguments with the audience in mind. 
  • It’s important to share articles with your team if you want them to think more strategically.
  • To the question of where to find books, asking for recommendations on Twitter or Linkedin works for some, or looking at the bibliography of a book you’re reading for wider reading on that subject.
  • We were joined by Theresa Destrebecq, Founder at Emerge Book Circles who shared how she works with organisations and leaders to delve deeper into a book. She facilitates deeper learning and as a group, they spend time integrating the ideas within their business. 
  • Another member shared insight into how a recommendation from a teacher to read quality fiction, broadsheets, periodicals and journals transformed their life after a late dyslexia diagnosis.
  • Similar to when you start designing and you’re encouraged to surround yourself with quality creative, this dedication to reading has improved the quality and rhythm of their writing – yes there might still be spelling mistakes but the composition of the piece is much more thoughtful.

Our Members’ Forum takes place on the first Monday of each month, at 4 – 5pm. If you would like to attend, get in touch here

Our next members forum will be taking place on Monday 5 September.

DBA Roundup


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Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

15/08/2025


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DBA Members’ Forum | August Summary


At August's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Lucy Mann and Nick Farrar, Founder and CEO of Shaped By for a great conversation about how to use August to build momentum for your new business pipeline through September and beyond. This is an August to do list!

06/08/2025


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Discover! Creative Careers Month 2025: how to get involved


Could you provide design career experiences for 11-18-year-olds this November? Find out more about Discover! Creative Careers Month and help inspire the next generation of talent into design.

05/08/2025


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What led you to a career in design? How could you inspire others?


Whether you are a small company or a large employer, could you inspire young, diverse talent to consider a career in design? Here's how DBA member BAGGI helped young people Discover Creative Careers.

16/07/2025


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DBA Members’ Forum | July Summary


At July's DBA Members’ Forum we were joined by Rama Gheerawo and Clive Grinyer for the top line on their latest books. Here’s a brief summary of what was discussed in the meeting.

09/07/2025


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DBA Members’ Forum | June Summary


In June's DBA Members’ Forum we had an interesting and inspiring conversation on the topic design education particularly in higher education. Here's a summary of the conversation.

03/06/2025


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How to create a business that doesn’t get asked to free pitch


Why is it that some design businesses get dragged into speculative pitches more than others? Or rather, how do some escape the free pitching trap?

20/05/2025


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How and why designers should turn down free pitching


At a recent DBA Members' Forum, leaders shared practical tips to help studios avoid free pitching. Design Week's Rob Alderson reports.

08/05/2025


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DBA Members’ Forum | May Summary


In our May DBA Members' Forum, we had a lively discussion on the topic of free pitching. Here's a summary of the conversation.

07/05/2025


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