As a Industrial designer, design researcher and Project manager Theunis has been living and working in Vancouver Canada for 25 years. During that, Theunis owned and operated several businesses with varying degrees of success. He is currently in startup mode with East Fourth Studios, the beginnings of a documentary film production company. Prior to that he was a co-founder of Basic Design Studio, an upcycling design and fabrication company. He also owned and operated an IKEA furniture delivery and assembly business that ultimately inspired him to go to Design school.
Theunis combines a Master's in Design with creativity and practical skills, making significant strides in sustainable design at Sharewares to reduce plastic waste. His work, which subtly incorporates research, focuses on developing eco-friendly solutions in the reusable container sector. He skillfully merges design with research, contributing to community projects with the Vancouver Design Nerd community and the City of Vancouver.
In the film industry, Theunis honed his leadership and problem-solving skills, preparing him for complex challenges. His involvement in the Maker movement reflects his dedication to sustainability, utilizing researched materials and techniques in his projects.
His education is highlighted by a SSHRC research grant and involvement in research-focused programs at Emily Carr University, CITYSTUDIO Vancouver, and SFU's RADIUS initiatives, showcasing his commitment to innovative applications of research.
Theunis's blend of design, hands-on application, and informed research approach, coupled with his values of inclusion, equity, and diversity, make him a valuable asset in diverse environments. His international experience broadens his perspective, ensuring his work benefits from wide-ranging insights and principles.