What led you into design?
I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by ingenuity, as both of my parents owned and operated a fashion design company. From a young age, I was immersed in the world of design, witnessing firsthand the power of imagination and creativity to transform ideas into reality.
However, beyond this familial influence, my passion for design stems from a deeper desire to channel the stories and imaginative narratives that constantly swirled in my mind. I credit much of this inclination to my mother, who is an exceptional storyteller.
What does a typical day look like?
Every morning, I start with a peaceful moment on my balcony, followed by two cups of black coffee—one to wake me up and the other to enjoy slowly. Then, it's time to choose between a bike ride or some fun aerobics.
Throughout the day, I join my team for discussions, problem-solving together, and taking breaks with a good book. Socializing with my team is crucial; it sparks new ideas and keeps us connected.
And design? It's woven into every aspect of my day, making each moment exciting.
What's your workstation setup?
Where do you go to get inspired?
I draw inspiration from exploring new hobbies, connecting with fresh faces, and delving into their passions by asking questions and engaging deeply with their interests. There's something incredibly enriching about discovering different perspectives and immersing myself in the enthusiasm of others.
What product have you recently seen that made you think this is great design?
Recently, I've been impressed by the simplicity and effectiveness of laundry detergent lids—they're perfect for measuring and prevent any spills, embodying great design.
Additionally, in the realm of UX design, Vinted stands out to me for its seamless experience, streamlining the process of selling clothes to strangers while fostering trust every step of the way. Turning recycling into a fun habit.
What pieces of work are you most proud of?
When I reflect on the work I'm most proud of, two initiatives come to mind. Firstly, leading efforts at N26 to simplify investing for all customers by breaking down barriers and adding educational elements.
Secondly, spearheading the crypto exchange project, where I used my beginner's mindset to make the process accessible to all users. But what truly fills me with pride is the inclusive team culture we've built, where everyone feels respected and fulfilled.
What design challenges do you face at your company?
At N26, our design challenges often stem from navigating compliance constraints, a common hurdle for many fintech companies. It's a delicate balance between meeting regulatory requirements and delivering a user-centered experience that truly resonates.
Additionally, we face the unique challenge of bridging the gap between team members with extensive investing experience and those approaching the process with fresh eyes. Finding that sweet spot between expertise and innovation is key, and it often involves justifying every design decision. Despite these challenges, it's incredibly rewarding to have a dedicated team that shares a belief in our project and stands by it through thick and thin, driven by the prospect of opening doors to the vast majority.
What music do you listen to while designing?
Any advice for ambitious designers?
Trust your gut and confidently sell the ideas you believe in.
Embrace learning from both your mistakes and your colleagues.
Don't expect a one-size-fits-all process for every project; if needed, create your own path aligned with your goals.
Allow room for improvisation and creative exploration.
Avoid the trap of trying to please everyone; focus on delivering value to your target audience.
Bring your whole self to work, your personality will make the difference.
Collaborate with all team members, inspiring excitement and investment in the project's success. Together, harness creativity to bring ideas to life.
Lastly, remember to celebrate the small victories along the way—they are milestones of progress and growth.
Anything you want to promote or plug?
Definitely check out Female Invest! They're an empowering platform dedicated to equipping women with the tools and resources to take control of their financial future. I admire their dedication to making finance accessible and their tireless efforts toward creating a world I'd love to live in.
www.femaleinvest.com
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