Meet the Mentors for YSYS’s Google UX Design Certificate Scholarship
YSYS is proud to be providing a scholarship and supporting 50 diverse scholars through Google’s UX Design Certificate. Meet Disha, a Programme Mentor and Service Designer at frog London.
For the talented group of scholars about to embark on our latest programme, mentorship is about to play an important role. We’re excited to introduce you to the inspiring individuals who’ll be guiding our scholars through our UX Design programme in partnership with Google. We’re set to guide 50 diverse individuals from around the country through this invaluable certification. We’ve got exclusive workshops, networking events, and of course, first class mentorship lined up to make this programme a success!
UX Design is the unseen guide of our digital world, shaping the way we interact with the technology we use everyday. Prioritising the human, UX Design aims to make our tech journeys smoother and more intuitive — keeping us coming back for more.
We got the chance to chat with Disha about the importance of UX Design, shaping the future of the industry, and her words of wisdom for those keen to step into this line of work.
Tell us more about your role and how you built your career to this point.
My journey began during my undergraduate program in industrial design, where I immersed myself in various disciplines of art, design, and media. This exploration led me to the realisation that solving complex problems requires a multidisciplinary approach. This motivated me to pursue a Masters in Service Design at the Royal College of Art, equipping me with the skills and mindset to design holistic experiences and tackle systemic challenges. Now, I thrive in a collaborative environment, working alongside talented service and product designers to create meaningful and transformative solutions for our clients.
Can you share a memorable collaboration or teamwork experience from your career?
I had an incredible and memorable experience while working as part of a team for a tech accelerator program. Our team consisted of mentors and design educators, all united by a common goal: helping students from technology and business backgrounds apply design thinking to their startup ideas. Throughout this intense week, we approached the challenge head-on, fueled by our shared energy and determination to support the students in their pursuit of the most viable and desirable idea. What made this experience truly positive was our ability to strike the perfect balance of “radical candor,” where we deeply cared about the challenge at hand while fearlessly challenging each other to grow and excel.
How can students and those early on in their careers best make their mark in the industry?
Successful applicants can make a significant impact in the industry by staying curious, embracing emerging technologies, understanding user needs deeply, and advocating for inclusive and user-centred design approaches. I’m thrilled about the future of UX Design because it aligns with the rapid evolution of technology and digital products. As our modes of interaction with services and products continuously evolve, UX designers have the exciting opportunity to shape and transform these experiences.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is about to complete the Google UX Design Certificate with YSYS?
One valuable piece of advice I would give is to have a clear understanding of what they hope to gain from the program. Engaging with UX design professionals in the field can provide insights into the daily responsibilities, required skills (both technical and soft skills), and potential career paths within the industry. This exploration and knowledge-seeking will not only enhance their application but also provide a realistic and informed perspective on the UX design field.
Thank you to Disha for sharing her insights with us in the first of our mentorship series! Want to keep the conversation going? Keep up with Disha’s continued journey in the industry by following her on LinkedIn! 📲
