Jean Oneli Blaise | Jean Oneli Blaise

Jean Oneli Blaise, known as Nelly Blaise, was selected through the Open Call Emerging Design Practices ABCSSS. A Caribbean-born designer, teacher and storyteller, he has been leading grassroots media projects since 2015 in which young people tackle social issues such as climate change and postcolonial identity through storytelling.

Blaise is expanding his practice into immersive technology and is developing his first VR detective game. In the game, players are introduced to local Caribbean heroes and historical figures. Stories about heritage are coupled with interactive learning to promote critical thinking and cultural awareness.

During the development year, Blaise will go through a phased process, from research to VR prototyping and user testing. He is working together with local historians, artists and older people, and involving young people as testers and mentees. The year ends with launch events on Sint Maarten and in the Netherlands.