Azadeh Yousefi AAIP
Packaging Designer
Production Packaging Innovations (PPI)
Q1: What made you undertake the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree?
There were several factors influenced my decision. First, I have always had a strong passion for the packaging industry and its dynamic nature. I believe that packaging is not only essential for protecting most products throughout the supply chain, but also has the power to create meaningful experiences and positively impact people’s lives.
Moreover, I recognised the increasing importance of innovation in the food and packaging sectors. With evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and sustainability concerns, there is a growing need for professionals who can drive innovation and provides practical and effective solutions.
The Master of Food & Packaging Innovation program offered a comprehensive curriculum that combined in-depth knowledge of food science, packaging technologies, and innovation strategies. The opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and industry experts greatly appealed to me, as it promised to equip me with the skills and expertise necessary to make a significant impact in the field.
Furthermore, I was attracted to the multidisciplinary nature of the program. It provided a holistic understanding of the entire food and packaging production, encompassing aspects such as product development, quality assurance, consumer behaviour, value creation, and environmental sustainability. This holistic approach resonated with my desire to gain a well-rounded perspective and contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative solutions. Also, I was drawn to the internship opportunity and industry collaborations facilitated by the program. The chance to connect with professionals and engage in real-world projects.
Overall, undertaking the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree aligned perfectly with my passion for the food industry, my interest in innovation, and my desire to make a positive impact in addressing the industry’s challenges.
Q2: How did you hear about the degree?
I actively researched and explored various educational programs in the field of packaging innovation. During my research, I came across information about the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree in AIP website, which immediately caught my attention due to its comprehensive curriculum and alignment with my academic and professional interests. Then I started doing further research in the university website.
Q3: When did you graduate?
I graduated in July 2019.
Q4: What were some of your key learnings from undertaking the degree?
Undertaking the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree provided me with valuable insights and learnings that have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of the field. Here are some of the key takeaways:
- In-depth knowledge of food science: The degree program offered a comprehensive exploration of food science principles, including food chemistry, food processing, food safety regulations and sensory evaluation. This knowledge deepened my understanding of food composition, functionality, and safety, enabling me to make informed decisions and develop innovative food products.
- Packaging technologies and sustainability: I gained a thorough understanding of various packaging materials, technologies, and their impact on product quality, shelf life, and sustainability. I learned about emerging packaging trends, such as eco-friendly materials, smart packaging, and active packaging solutions. This knowledge empowered me to consider the environmental implications and sustainability aspects while developing packaging strategies.
- Innovation strategies and ideation processes: The degree program emphasized the importance of innovation in the food and packaging industries. I learned about different innovation frameworks, and tools used to generate creative ideas and transform them into viable solutions. This knowledge equipped me with the skills to identify market opportunities, develop new products, and improve existing processes.
- The program fostered a collaborative environment where I had the opportunity to work on projects with fellow students from diverse backgrounds. This experience honed my teamwork and communication skills, while also providing insights into the importance of effective project management within the food and packaging innovation context.
- Industry insights and networking opportunities: Through guest lectures, industry visits, and networking events, I had the chance to connect with professionals and gain firsthand knowledge of the industry’s current trends and challenges. These interactions broadened my perspective, exposed me to real-world scenarios, and facilitated valuable connections that continue to be beneficial in my professional journey.
Q5: The UOM MFPI degree is unique in that it has 14 expert lecturers from the AIP running two of the units. What stood out for you about the AIP involvement in the degree?
The involvement of the Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) in the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree offered by the University of Melbourne (UOM) is undoubtedly a distinguishing feature of the program. AIP’s contribution to the program brought a wealth of industry expertise and knowledge to the curriculum. Having 14 expert lecturers from the AIP meant that students had direct access to professionals who possess a deep understanding of the packaging industry, its trends, and its challenges. This ensured that the education provided was not just theoretical but also practical and relevant to real-world scenarios. Moreover, The AIP’s involvement would have facilitated networking opportunities with professionals and organisations within the packaging industry.
Industry recognition: The AIP is a well-established and respected organisation within the packaging industry. Its involvement in the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree adds credibility to the program and reinforces its alignment with industry needs. The association with the AIP can also enhance the reputation of graduates and increase their employability prospects.
Q6: What advice do you have for anyone else interested in undertaking this degree?
If you are interested in undertaking the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree, here are some recommendations to consider:
- Connect with alumni and industry professionals: Reach out to former students who have completed the program or professionals working in the food and packaging industry. Seek their insights about the degree, its strengths, and potential areas for improvement. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable perspectives and help you make an informed decision.
- Attend information sessions and open day: Take advantage of any information sessions, virtual or in-person. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the program, interact with faculty members, and get a feel for the learning environment. Ask questions and seek clarifications to address any concerns you may have.
- Consider internships or practical experiences: Practical experiences in the food and packaging industry can complement your coursework and provide valuable hands-on learning experiences. Such opportunities can also help you build industry connections and enhance your employability.
Q7: Did you undertake an internship in the industry? If so where? What was this experience like?
Yes, I had the opportunity to undertake an internship in the industry during my Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree. I was fortunate to intern at Costa Group, specifically in their tomato division, where I focused on designing packaging solutions for fresh produce with an emphasis on sustainability.
During my internship, I had the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills I acquired during my degree to practical scenarios. I worked on developing packaging concepts that aimed to minimise environmental impact while ensuring the freshness and quality of the produce. This experience allowed me to consider factors such as materials selection, design optimisation, and supply chain considerations.
Additionally, the internship provided a platform for me to collaborate with cross-functional teams within Costa Group. I gained exposure to different stakeholders involved in the packaging process, including growers, quality control experts, and marketing professionals. This collaborative environment enhanced my communication and teamwork skills and broadened my understanding of the interconnectedness of various functions within the industry.
Q8: Since graduation how have you applied the degree?
Since completing my degree, I have actively pursued opportunities within the food and packaging industry, capitalising on the comprehensive education and practical experiences afforded by the program. I was fortunate to secure a position as a structural packaging designer, specialising in the utilisation of cardboard and corrugated medium. With the knowledge and expertise gained through my degree, I have successfully integrated sustainable practices into my work. This includes employing eco-friendly materials, minimizing packaging waste, and embracing the principles of the circular economy.
The MFPI degree has instilled in me the confidence to develop practical design solutions across a variety of projects, enabling me to collaborate effectively with colleagues and showcase my capabilities. As a testament to my accomplishments, I have been honoured with three Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) awards and have been awarded the AIP President scholarship to pursue a Diploma in Packaging Technology.
Furthermore, I have actively pursued continuous learning as an active member of the AIP (Australian Institute of Packaging). By participating in conferences, webinars, and training courses organised by the AIP, I remain at the forefront of industry trends and emerging technologies, continually enhancing my knowledge and skills