Meet Ziyi Zhou

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ziyi Zhou a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ziyi, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

Opting for a creative career was an organic choice for me. From a young age, I had a deep passion for artistic expression and problem-solving. This love for creativity and innovation naturally led me to design, where I find profound fulfillment in transforming concepts into tangible realities that address real-world challenges.

As I advanced in my career, my interest in interaction design and emerging technologies grew. I am captivated by how users engage with products and how thoughtful design can enhance these interactions. Technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) open exciting new possibilities for creating immersive experiences.

My purpose solidified when I realized the significant impact design can have on people’s lives. Combining creativity, interaction design, and emerging tech to solve meaningful problems motivates and inspires me daily. This journey has led me to a fulfilling career that perfectly aligns with my passions and values.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I’m a UI/UX and Interaction designer with a rich background in user-centered and interaction design. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups and non-profit organizations. My approach to design is deeply rooted in a commitment to solving social issues, harnessing the power of design to create meaningful change.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to blend artistic vision with practical solutions, addressing real-world challenges through impactful design. I strive to create products that not only meet user needs but also contribute positively to society. This passion for making a difference through design is what sets me apart in the industry.

Having earned degrees from the Art Center College of Design and UC Berkeley, I’ve developed comprehensive design systems that focus on creating holistic and user-friendly products. My work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the A’ Design Award, C2A Design Award, Muse Award, and the American Art Elite Award (Young Professional). I am always looking for new ways to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in design, continuously seeking to create solutions that are both beautiful and functional.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

The three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey are creativity, a focus on social impact, and adaptability to emerging technologies.

1. Creativity: This quality has been foundational in my career. Creativity allows you to think outside the box and develop unique solutions. To develop this skill, immerse yourself in various artistic disciplines and constantly seek inspiration. Practice regularly and don’t be afraid to experiment with new ideas.

2. Focus on Social Impact: Designing with the intent to address social issues has been incredibly rewarding and impactful. Understanding the broader implications of your work and striving to make a positive difference can set your designs apart. To develop this focus, get involved with projects and organizations that aim to solve social challenges. Volunteer, conduct research, and engage with communities to understand their needs and how your skills can contribute.

3. Adaptability to Emerging Technologies: Staying current with new technologies like AR, VR, and AI has significantly impacted my work. These tools offer new avenues for innovation and can set you apart in the industry. To improve in this area, stay curious and continuously educate yourself about the latest trends and technologies. Participate in workshops, online courses, and industry conferences to keep your skills up to date.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is one who prioritizes social impact, embraces innovation, values collaboration, and recognizes the strategic importance of design excellence. They are committed to projects that positively impact society, such as improving healthcare access or advancing sustainability initiatives. This client values the integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance user experiences and differentiate their offerings in the market. Working with such clients allows me to leverage my expertise to create meaningful solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zzhou01/

Image Credits

Ziyi Zhou