New Media Design students among the top 28 in global packaging design competition

Design has the power to do more than solve practical problems. It can spark conversations, challenge perceptions, and help break the stigma surrounding difficult topics. With this year's theme, Unpacking Taboo, the Model Young Package competition invited emerging designers to do exactly that through innovative packaging design.

Among 284 submissions from 37 countries, New Media Design students Shivika Chopra and Ida Mihaica were selected among the Top 28 prototypes in the competition, earning international recognition for their innovative concepts and advancing to the public voting stage.

Organized by Model Group, one of Europe's leading manufacturers of sustainable paper packaging, Model Young Package is a global competition that connects emerging designers with the packaging industry. The 2026 edition brought together students and designers from around the world, with entries evaluated based on creativity, functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and social impact.

Packaging that starts conversations

Behind this international recognition are thoughtful design concepts that show how packaging can become more than a product container. It can go beyond functionality by sharing information, encouraging awareness, and creating more thoughtful user experiences. Developed as part of the Elements III course under the mentorship of Instructor Mia Klemenčić, Shivika Chopra, and Ida Mihaica created projects that stood out among hundreds of entries from around the world.

Shivika's concept, PACE, transforms menstrual cup packaging into an interactive educational experience, helping first-time users build confidence through guided learning and hands-on practice. Ida's project, Be-for Sex, addresses the lack of open conversations around intimacy by using packaging to encourage reflection on mental and physical well-being before and after intimate moments.

Reflecting on the students' achievement, Instructor Mia Klemenčić emphasized that participating in international competitions gives students “an opportunity to apply their creativity to real-world challenges while gaining valuable professional exposure.” She noted that the “recognition received by the students is a testament to their dedication, innovative thinking, and willingness to tackle socially relevant topics through design.”

Support our students! Public voting is open until July 31, and each person can vote for up to three prototypes.

Cast your vote here: https://www.modelgroup.com/hr/en/model-young-package/online-award-2026.html