20 March 2023
She’s on a path where she finds fulfilment in developing products that solve real-world problems and improve people's lives, inspired by her desire to see her ideas become a reality.
Product Designer, Moniepoint
BY MITCHELLE CHIBUNDU
Tell us about your current role and the most rewarding part of your work
I'm a Product Designer at Moniepoint (formerly TeamApt). The most rewarding part of my work is seeing that my design solution makes someone's life easier. I get to develop products that solve real-world problems and improve people's lives.
Before design, my first work experience was as a Production Chemistry Intern at SNEPCO (Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company). I was working there in 2018.
What did you do before what you stated above?
I enjoy creating things and the desire to see my ideas come to life. This field is constantly evolving with new technologies and materials. I am interested in staying up-to-date with the latest developments and enjoy using technology to create innovative solutions..
What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
I enjoy spending time alone or with friends and loved ones when I'm not working. I'm highly introverted, and you're not likely to catch me at large gatherings, except I'm there to support somebody. My typical "no-work" day would be ice cream + Netflix, binge-watching my favourite sitcom with pasta—something like that.
How do you enjoy spending your time when you’re not working?
“The design industry can be exclusive and lacking in diversity. We need to advocate for diversity in hiring practices, promoting women-led design firms, and supporting women in leadership positions.”
We need to provide mentorship and networking opportunities to help women build confidence, develop their skills, and gain exposure to new opportunities in the industry. We need to showcase women’s work through design blogs, conferences, exhibitions, to increase their visibility and recognise their contributions to the field.
Education and inspiration can also play a key role in making more women in design visible, so we need to share more stories of successful women in design and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
The design industry can be exclusive and lacking in diversity. We need to advocate for diversity in hiring practices, promoting women-led design firms, and supporting women in leadership positions.
What, in your opinion, should be done to make more women in design visible?
How do you continue to develop your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in design and technology?
Keeping up with the latest advancements in design requires a commitment to continuous learning, experimentation, collaboration, and specialisation. By staying current, designers can stay competitive and deliver high-quality work to their clients.
Developing my design skills has been crucial to taking my career in the right direction in this competitive market. I work hard to expand my comfort zone. In the UX industry, you have to practice as much as possible.
Any books or website that you’d like for everyone to check out?
If you're seeking a community of like-minded tech talents, join Tabulio.
Is there something you know now, that you wish you knew at the beginning of your career?
Silence will not save you. If you don't like it, say something. This mindset covers every aspect of my life, especially my career, from compensation negotiations to work relationships. You must learn to speak up when uncomfortable with whatever situation.
Half the time, the people involved don't know you feel this way and keeping quiet means you don't have objections. Other times, they might know you're uncomfortable, but being quiet means, you'll try to compromise. They may ignore you when you speak up, which can't improve things. But what if it does?
Growing up, I used to hate eating potatoes. I am trying to remember why. By the time I was 8, my mom was tired of convincing me, so she stopped buying them. Right now, I have a slight obsession with Irish potatoes.
What is an interesting and possibly unexpected fact about you?
What would you wear to a meeting that could potentially change your life?
Formal business attire in neutral colours and a smile 💚
What advice would you give to other women pursuing a design career who feel stuck in the journey?
Join a design group or community to help you connect with other women in the industry. You can share your experiences, ask for advice, and get support from people who understand what you are going through.
Sometimes feeling stuck in your career can stem from feeling stagnant or like you need to progress. Consider taking classes or workshops to learn new skills or find opportunities to work on different projects to challenge yourself and expand your capabilities.
Taking a step back from your work can be helpful. Give yourself time to recharge and return to work with a fresh perspective.
Remember why you started pursuing a career in design in the first place. Believe in your abilities and the value that you bring to the industry. Be patient with yourself and keep pushing forward, even if it feels difficult at times.
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Cynthia Ugwudike
Her passion for solving problems and creating meaningful things led her to pursue a non-traditional path. Her designs are now shaping the future of payments and remittances.