Empowering China’s Next Generation of Design Talent
As a global brand with a local mindset, we believe that understanding and connecting with local consumers starts with investing in local design teams and talent.
"Our vision is to hire, develop and retain the best people to run our business in the different markets, to be close to the consumer and the local culture, have the right products and the relevant marketing for each market."
China is brimming with young, imaginative talent eager to challenge conventions. What they need most is a platform to develop and showcase their abilities.
The A.C.E. (adidas Creator Experience) program, launched by the Creation Center Shanghai (CCS), offers student designers hands-on experience in real product development—from ideation to commercialization. Guided by CCS mentors, participants rapidly gain both creative and business acumen.
Graduation projects of 2024 A.C.E. Interns
We envision these young creators growing with adidas, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to our “China for China” initiatives.
A.C.E. 2024: Laying the Foundation
The program was born from a collaborative discussion among CCS, HR partners, and Patrick, Product SVP of GCA. Starting from scratch, we set a clear goal: to build a long-term incubator for design talent.
Our first recruitment drive in 2024 attracted hundreds of applications, from which four students were selected. Under CCS mentorship, they made remarkable progress, with several projects reaching the market. Following the program, two interns joined adidas full-time as CCS team members.
A.C.E. 2025: Raising the Bar
Building on last year’s success, we refined the program for 2025, introducing the theme “Culture to Couture: China’s Pulse Re:Imagined.” This year’s competition spanned footwear, apparel, and accessories, challenging students to merge fashion, sport, and streetwear with Chinese cultural elements.
Students presenting their creative works
Each student was paired with a dedicated mentor, receiving guidance throughout the competition to help transform ideas into tangible products.
Thousands of applications poured in from top design schools worldwide. After several selection rounds, 23 finalists presented their work at our GCA headquarters in Shanghai. Their projects were showcased during the finals, where members of the Senior Leadership Team and employees were invited to vote and provide feedback.
Employees voting for their favorite creative works
Nine outstanding students received job offers, including Chao Wang, who reimagined ancient Chinese mountaineering gear for modern wear.
Chao Wang: Inspired by Ancient Chinese Mountaineering Gear
Elaina Dai transformed traditional work uniform designs into street fashion, inspired by an old photo of her grandfather.
Elaina Dai: Inspired by Traditional Chinese Work Uniforms
A.C.E. Has Made a Lasting Impact
The A.C.E. program has had a profound affect on those it has touched so far. The quality of guidance the mentors provide and the close ties they form with the participants are seen in the following testimonials. Additionally, the participants have enriched the product offerings as well as delighting their mentors and other business partners along the way.
“At school, you can push boundaries without worrying about costs. At adidas, you learn to focus resources where they matter most. I was lucky to receive this kind of training in my first job—it shaped my mindset while I was still a blank slate.”
— Yu Deshui, 2024 A.C.E. Intern
“It’s been an enjoyable process. CCS mentors offered strong professional support, focusing on pure design rather than judging personal style. They did everything possible to help us realize our visions.”
— Seth Su, 2025 A.C.E. Offer Winner
“I’m grateful to my mentor for encouraging me to draw from my own experiences. As a fencer, I created a fencing shoe inspired by Chinese martial arts, continually refining the design and functionality based on real training feedback. In the end, I told a complete product story.”
—Leihongqing Yi, 2025 A.C.E. Offer Winner
“We saw a lot of exploration of Chinese culture through their eyes, as well as a sense of pride. By digging into various elements and transforming them into design, they opened up broader horizons.”
— Eson Huang, 2025 A.C.E. Mentor
“We continually draw on internal and external resources to support the growth of young talent. We believe this project brings real value to the brand and the industry, and we’re committed to carrying it forward.”
— Gillian Chen, A.C.E. HR Partner
20 Years of CCS: The Story Continues
This year marks the 20th anniversary of CCS. Over two decades, our local design team has created iconic works, from the 2008 Beijing Olympic podium uniform to the Tang Chinese New Year jacket which went viral on Instagram and TikTok.
With more local talent joining CCS, we believe Chinese creativity will continue to shine—winning hearts at home and capturing attention worldwide.
