My passion for empowering women in the design industry has led me to actively support the Women in Design conference that UMO hosts every year. Through these diverse involvements and contributions, I’ve forged a deep and meaningful connection with UMO Design and its community, driven by a shared dedication to advancing the field of design through collaboration, learning, and inclusivity.
Natalie Valsangkar
UX Designer, Kylas Growth Engine
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Tell us about yourself and your work.
My name is Natalie Valsangkar and I am a keen and extroverted individual deeply passionate about design. I actively seek out opportunities to connect with fellow designers, whether it’s through attending industry events, participating in design workshops and meetups, or engaging in online forums and communities. Currently, I am working as a UX designer at Kylas Growth Engine where my role revolves around crafting innovative and intuitive features for our Kylas and Sell Do CRM’s, aimed at enhancing user experiences and driving business growth. My work focuses on creating seamless interactions and interfaces that empower users to effectively manage their customer relationships. By leveraging cutting-edge design principles and technologies, my goal is to ensure that every interaction with our CRM’s is not only productive but also enjoyable, enabling our users to thrive in their roles and achieve their business objectives with ease.
How are you associated with UMO Design?
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I have been closely associated with UMO Design for the past 3 years, where my contributions and engagements have been multifaceted and impactful. One significant aspect of my involvement has been my active participation in organizing and hosting conferences orchestrated by UMO Design. Within the organization itself, I’ve played a pivotal role in both management and design realms, aiding in event organization, logistics coordination, and creative content development to enhance the experiences of attendees and participants. Moreover, my passion for empowering women in the design industry has led me to actively support the Women in Design conference that UMO hosts every year. Through these diverse involvements and contributions, I’ve forged a deep and meaningful connection with UMO Design and its community, driven by a shared dedication to advancing the field of design through collaboration, learning, and inclusivity.
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Tell us about your journey with UXINDIA as a volunteer?
My experience as a UX India volunteer has been incredibly rewarding and enriching. By actively participating in various initiatives and events organized by UX India, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of the UX design field while also learning from and collaborating with a diverse community of professionals. Volunteering with UX India has provided me with a platform to share my knowledge, skills, and experiences with others, whether it’s through interacting with the delegates or assisting with event logistics. Moreover, being part of such a dynamic and inclusive community has allowed me to broaden my perspectives, explore new ideas, and stay updated on the latest trends and practices in UX design.
Why design community and the industry need more female designers?
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We can contribute a wider variety of viewpoints and experiences to the profession of design by boosting the representation of women in the field. Diversity encourages innovation, creativity, and problem-solving, which eventually results in more inclusive and successful design solutions that better meet the needs of a wider audience. Since women account for a sizable share of the consumer market, design processes must to appropriately represent their demands and viewpoints. More female designers can guarantee that goods and services are created with a greater awareness of and compassion for a wider range of user demographics. Furthermore, having more female designers in positions of leadership provides future generations of aspiring designers with representation and motivation.
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What are three qualities that are important to grow as a design professional?
Creativity, Empathy and Adaptability are the heart of design. It’s the ability to think outside the box, generate new ideas, and approach problems from different perspectives that will help us create better solutions. We need to continuously nurture their creativity by exploring new techniques, seeking inspiration from various sources, and staying open to experimentation and innovation. As design professionals we must be able to put ourselves in the shoes of our target audience, empathize with their challenges and frustrations, and design solutions that truly address their pain points. By prioritizing empathy, we can create more meaningful and user-centric designs that have a positive impact on people’s lives. We need to be adaptable and flexible, willing to embrace change and learn new skills to stay relevant in a fast-paced industry. This requires a growth mindset, a willingness to step out of our comfort zones, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By staying adaptable, we can navigate shifting priorities, tackle new challenges, and continue to grow and evolve in their careers.
Where do you see yourself in UXINDIA team in the next 5 years?
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In the next five years, I envision myself playing a significant role within the UXINDIA Design team, leveraging my expertise and experience to contribute to the team’s growth and success. I see myself taking on more leadership responsibilities, perhaps as a senior UX designer or a design manager, where I can mentor and guide junior team members, lead design projects, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional user experiences. I also aspire to stand on the stage of UX India as a speaker within the next five years. To make this dream a reality, I understand the importance of achieving significant success in my field of UX design and I am committed to delivering projects that not only meet the highest standards but also leave a lasting impact.
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What makes UMO Design different than other design communities and conferences?
As a member of UMO Design, I believe what sets our community and conferences apart is our unwavering commitment to fostering genuine connections and driving tangible impact. Unlike other design communities and conferences that may prioritize quantity over quality, UMO Design focuses on creating meaningful experiences and facilitating deep, meaningful conversations among designers, industry professionals, and thought leaders. Our events are not just about showcasing the latest trends or technologies; they’re about sparking inspiration, encouraging collaboration, and empowering individuals to create positive change through design. Additionally, UMO Design places a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued within our community. Through our unique blend of thought-provoking content, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, UMO Design strives to elevate the design discourse and empower designers to make a real difference in the world.
What are your expectations from 1MW initiative?
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I believe this initiative is dedicated to empowering women in the design industry. My expectations from 1MW are centered around fostering a supportive community where women can thrive and lead in the field of design. I anticipate that 1MW will provide accessible design education and resources to women globally, enabling them to enhance their skills, gain recognition as leaders, and drive innovation in the design world. I look forward to engaging with valuable learning opportunities, professional development resources, and mentorship programs tailored specifically for women in design. Moreover, I expect 1MW to champion diversity, inclusion, and empowerment within the design community, offering a platform where members can contribute their expertise, mentor aspiring designers, and actively participate in discussions and collaborations to foster connections and empower fellow members.