The Young Designer of the Year, a Finnish design prize awarded now for the ninth time, goes to two design groups, Aivan! and Imu—altogether seven designers. They share a philosophy of working together, underlying the current theme in design where work is done by groups which cross borders and look for new work methods.

Aivan! collaborates with specialists from various fields – researchers, engineers and behavioral scientists – and their work is marked by questioning. Members of the group are Jarkko Jämsén, Antti Mäkelä, Mikael Silvanto and Saku Sysiö.

Imu was founded on the concept of cooperation and community spirit, and keeps its doors open for students and new designers, giving them an opportunity to enter the profession with the assistance of more experienced practitioners. Imu’s founding partners are Elina Aalto, Krista Kosonen and Saara Renvall.

In addition to design communities, today’s themes in design include social consciousness and media savvy approaches. Young designers have made statements and continually work to renew themselves. There is a global pursuit “to do the right thing” among design entrepreneurs, and sustainable development and responsible production practices are key concerns. According to the Young Designer of 2010 jury, the awarded design groups comply with these new trends in design.

The Young Designer of the Year prize is given to a young designer of exceptionally original and high-standard skills. The purpose of the prize is to encourage young designers to carry on uncompromising and original work.

Aivan! and Imu are at the Young Designers of 2010 exhibition, Design Forum Finland, June 2 through August 15, 2010.