The education and design sector is concerned with preparing students to acquire the skills required in career fields in graphic, interior, fashion, and industrial design. The institutions involved in this field combine practice with theoretical education to create innovative, creative, and problem-solving individuals. With an increasing need for qualified designers in a global and digital economy, the sector incorporates new technologies like augmented reality and artificial intelligence into the learning process. International accreditation and recognition are key to ensuring education standards and broadening opportunities for students. The creative industry drives innovative talent and has an impact on fashion, architecture, and advertising. Nicola Pighi, Hdemy Group’s founder and leader, is today considered one of Italy’s most innovative professional and academic education entrepreneurs. With a path founded on strategic vision and passion for design, Nicola has taken an idea and turned it into a state-of-the-art educational ecosystem, consisting of Nuova Accademia del Design (NAD) and the newly acquired Accademia Cappiello in Florence. They create, together, a dynamic learning reality that is willing to prepare the designers of tomorrow.

The Beginning of a Bold Vision: Nicola Pighi’s Revolutionary Journey in Redefining Design Education

Nicola Pighi’s journey into the realm of education and design entrepreneurship started with a deep conviction that creative talent, when nurtured with the right tools and guidance, could not only flourish but also become highly valuable in the job market. Over a decade ago, this belief materialized into a powerful initiative, the creation of Nuova Accademia del Design (NAD). Nicola’s vision was obvious but lofty: to couple his love for design with his passion for learning, building an environment where future designers could shine.

NAD was not a school in the classical sense, even at the start. It was a vision come true, a space where theory of design went hand in hand with practical, experiential learning. It brought with it a novel ‘learning by doing’ approach, which diverged from the usual academic model. What distinguished NAD was its staff: all of its teachers were seasoned professionals still practicing in the design world. This strategy not only made the curriculum current, but it also allowed students to gain insights that were based on the realities of the field.

Growth, Strategic Growth, and Conquering Challenges with Innovation

As NAD grew in prestige, Nicola Pighi developed his vision for design education in Italy further. One of the most important milestones on this path was the purchase of Accademia Cappiello in Florence, a school sharing the same values and mission, which made it a perfect fit for NAD. Nicola merged these two schools under the umbrella of the HDemy Group with a vision to have a unified and vibrant ecosystem for design studies. This convergence enabled the company to incorporate a wider set of programs as well as enlist a greater clientele, further driving Hdemy Group’s focus on innovation and quality. By interweaving heritage and innovative practices, Nicola emerged as a model for educational reformation.

Nicola’s venture, however, like every business venture, met its share of obstacles. The COVID-19 pandemic in the year 2020 presented its greatest challenge because NAD, like most businesses, was subject to disruption. Rather than allowing this crisis to sidetrack progress, Nicola took the opportunity to bring technology forward. Through investments in interactive screens, 4K cameras, and Cisco Webex, NAD made a seamless shift to e-learning, ensuring more than 450 students continued their studies with no interruption. This rapid conversion proved Nicola’s capacity to innovate in the face of adversity. Another significant barrier was the chase for international accreditation, a complicated and time-consuming process. Nicola’s perseverance has worked, as his institutions are now established on the world academic map, increasing their influence and credibility in design education globally.

The Heart and Mind of a Visionary: Nicola Pighi’s Leadership Traits and Educational Philosophy

When reflecting on the personal attributes that have helped him succeed, Nicola highlights three essential qualities: strategic vision, determination, and active listening. Each of these traits has been instrumental in shaping his approach to leadership and growth. Strategic vision allowed Nicola to perceive possibilities where others might have seen limitations. He always looked forward, looking ahead to trends and seeing opportunities that fit into his larger purpose. Perseverance kept him grounded in times of doubt and adversity, keeping him focused on his objectives. No less valuable was his active listening. Nicola put high value on knowing the views of students, faculty, partners, and industry stakeholders. This receptiveness to feedback allowed him to hone his strategies and create educational models that were nimble and responsive.

For Nicola, teaching is not just a job, it is a force for change. He feels that teachers have an obligation to close the gap between theory and practice. This philosophy is evident in all facets of NAD and Accademia Cappiello, where Nicola’s emphasis is on providing education that not only stimulates the mind but also empowers professionals. As a professional, Nicola believes in creating spaces that foster individuals. He seeks to arm students with more than just skills, but with confidence and flexibility to adapt to a rapidly changing world. As a person, he embraces an “ethic of action,” ensuring that every initiative he undertakes results in meaningful impact, whether it be on individuals, communities, or the larger society.

Recognitions That Reflect Excellence and Looking Ahead: The Future of the HDemy Group

The year 2025 stands out as a landmark in Nicola Pighi’s journey. It marks the initiation of international accreditation that elevates the academic offerings of both NAD and Accademia Cappiello. From autumn this year, the institutions will provide three-year Bachelor programmes in Interior Design and Fashion Design that are the equivalent of international Bachelor’s degrees (180 ECTS). This achievement not only confirms the academic credentials of the programmes but also increases their international mobility. Students will then receive internationally recognized and transferable ECTS credits. This accomplishment highlights Nicola’s dedication to providing a genuinely global learning experience, providing students with what he terms an “educational passport” to opportunities worldwide.

In the future, Nicola’s aspirations are as ambitious as his achievements. He sees NAD and HDemy Group further developing their global presence. New campuses are already in the works, as well as partnerships with foreign universities and companies, and new programs based on the use of the latest technologies like augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and generative design. This emphasis on immersive technology is not mere trend-watching; it is a deliberate strategy to keep the curriculum up to speed with what the future of the design business will require. Nicola would like HDemy Group to be known as Europe’s best design education hub: inclusive, sustainable, and forever changing.

The Journey Continues and Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Leaders

Nicola Pighi’s story is far from over. With Hdemy Group, Nuova Accademia del Design, and Accademia Cappiello under his leadership, the foundations have been laid for a transformative new chapter in design education. His unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and inclusivity is not just reshaping how design is taught, it’s redefining what education can achieve in the modern world. As Nicola himself puts it, “Our journey is just beginning. For those who want to be part of this creative revolution, the first step is all it takes.”

To up-and-coming entrepreneurs and emerging leaders, Nicola gives straightforward yet compelling advice: have faith in the potential of your ideas. But he hastens to add that faith itself is not enough. Converting an idea into a lasting business needs discipline, patience, and the capacity for deep listening. He calls on young professionals to invest in learning, be around people who are competent, and concentrate on creating value that spreads to others. From Nicola’s perspective, success is only achieved when one leaves a positive footprint in other people’s lives. With such an inspiring vision and such demonstrated commitment, there is little doubt that Nicola Pighi will continue to lead with intention, passion, and the power of education to transform.