This article presents a pedagogical practice building on the positive outcomes of the Erasmus+ Teaching Mobility Program at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in February 2023. Inspired by the initiative at Porto Lusófona University in 2021, a similar briefing was conducted with second-year Graphic Design students at Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Czech Republic. The project aimed to implement the most effective graphic solution at the host university while also generating funds for the same proposed NGO, The Big Hand. The article is organize in four parts: Introduction, conceptual framework, methodology and conclusion. The development process was structured through the Design Thinking methodology. A practice that emphasize the importance of social design innovation as a key application area in the field of design, encouraging a socially conscious approach that prioritizes human needs. This practice offers valuable insights and innovative strategies for enhancing teaching and learning in design education while effectively motivating and engaging students. The practice also explores opportunities to implement these methods on a larger scale, involving international students to tackle global challenges through design. Furthermore, it connects academia with international community, showing how universities can promote social change while enhancing students’ educational experiences. Although all students showed dedication and interest in real-world initiatives—especially those with a civic focus—significantly increased their involvement and motivation.