This talk is an honest story about how I stumbled into the world of UI/UX design, not through a fancy bootcamp or a design degree, but through community-led projects, failed prototypes, late-night Figma struggles, and the power of feedback. Three years ago, I didn’t know what a design system was, let alone how to lead a design team. Now, I’m mentoring designers, shipping real products, and building inclusive design communities.
In this session, I’ll share the biggest lessons I’ve learned, what I wish I had known earlier, the tools and mindsets that accelerated my growth, and how embracing community (especially in underrepresented spaces) transformed me into the designer I am today. This isn’t your typical “Intro to UX” talk.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned designer, you’ll walk away with practical takeaways, laughs, and a new appreciation for how community can be your greatest design mentor.