Joining 1MW, I hope to access valuable learning opportunities, professional development resources, and mentorship programs tailored specifically for women in design. Overall, I believe 1MW will provide a platform for women to succeed and shape the future of design.
Sanika Awati
Student , BDes, Symbiosis Institute of Design
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Tell us about yourself and your work.
My name is Sanika Awati. I am currently a 3rd-year student at Symbiosis Institute of Design doing BDes in User Experience Design. I’m passionate about creating user-centric and intuitive designs that enhance people’s interactions with technology. Throughout my studies, I’ve been exploring various aspects of design, including user research, prototyping, and usability testing, to develop my skills and knowledge in the field of UX design. I’m excited about the opportunities to apply what I’ve learned in real-world projects and contribute to creating meaningful and impactful user experiences.
How has been your experience as a UX India volunteer?
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My experience as a volunteer for UX India 2023 was great. I had the chance to serve as the compere and help out with various tasks, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the event’s lively atmosphere and connect with a diverse group of people from the design community.
I had the chance to connect with so many talented professionals, enthusiasts, and fellow volunteers, many of whom have become good friends since then. The camaraderie and sense of collaboration among everyone involved was the best part.
Throughout the event, I learned a great deal, not only about the latest trends and practices in UX design but also about teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Being part of such a dynamic and fast-paced environment pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. Overall, my experience as a UX India volunteer was satisfying, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an impactful event.
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Why do you think more female students should learn design and take up design-based professions?
From my perspective, I believe more female students should consider learning design and pursuing design-based professions because diversity in the design industry leads to more inclusive outcomes.
This belief stems from a crucial observation: many designs in use today have been crafted without considering the unique needs and perspectives of women. Often, they’ve been predominantly tested on male subjects, leading to significant oversights and shortcomings in usability and functionality for female users.
By encouraging more women to enter the field of design, we can ensure that a wider range of voices and experiences are represented in the products and services we create. Each person, regardless of gender, brings a distinct set of experiences, preferences, and challenges to the table. Embracing this diversity will lead to more inclusive outcomes.
What are three qualities that are important to grow as a design professional?
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Empathy, as understanding the emotions, perspectives, and experiences of users is crucial in creating designs that resonate with them. Empathizing with users enables designers to develop products and experiences that address their needs and preferences, ultimately leading to more meaningful and user-centric solutions.
Adaptability, as the design landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, trends, and methodologies emerging regularly. Design professionals need to be adaptable and open to learning to stay relevant in the field.
Creativity, as the ability to think outside the box and approach problems from different perspectives, is essential in design since it allows designers to innovate and develop unique solutions that will meet the user’s needs effectively.
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Where do you see yourself in the UXINDIA team in the next 5 years?
I would like to continue making meaningful contributions to the design community through UXINDIA, whether it’s through organizing events, fostering partnerships, or developing initiatives that advance the field of user experience design.
What makes UMO Design different than other design communities and conferences?
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What sets UMO Design apart from other design communities and conferences is the welcoming atmosphere and ease of communication among its participants. While I haven’t had direct involvement with other design communities and conferences, my experience with UMO Design was characterized by the openness of everyone involved.
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What are your expectations from the 1MW initiative?
I expect the 1 Million Women in Design (1MW) initiative to support and empower women in the design industry. I’m looking forward to being part of a community where women can thrive, learn, and take on leadership roles in design.
The goal of providing accessible design education and resources to one million women worldwide is inspiring, and I’m excited to be part of a movement that promotes diversity and inclusion in the design community.
Joining 1MW, I hope to access valuable learning opportunities, professional development resources, and mentorship programs tailored specifically for women in design. Overall, I believe 1MW will provide a platform for women to succeed and shape the future of design.