We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Mina Maazi ("MM").
Mina Maazi is a UX/UI and product designer with a background in Design Management and a passion for human-centered innovation. With over six years of experience in fintech, digital transformation, and adaptive learning solutions, she specializes in designing intuitive and impactful digital experiences. Mina has contributed to projects that enhance accessibility, streamline financial processes, and improve digital adoption in organizations. Her work has been recognized with awards, including the Best Idea Award at the People-Led Digitalisation event, organized by Birmingham City University and the University of Bath. She is also an active mentor, sharing her expertise through platforms like ADPList.
Mina Maazi Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Mina Maazi.
Mina Maazi Design - Alma Adaptive Training Platform
Designer Interview of Mina Maazi:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
MM : Since I was a child, I believed that design could save the world. While other kids were playing, I would get lost in the shapes of ancient ruins, mesmerized by the details in their carvings, wondering how people so long ago created something so meaningful and lasting. Growing up in Iran, I was surrounded by art in its many forms — from traditional Persian carpets to architecture, calligraphy, and nature itself. I learned how to weave rugs, how to shape resin into art, and even how to plan interior and landscape spaces. Design was never a subject to me; it was a way of feeling, of noticing the unseen, and of caring deeply about beauty and function living side by side. For me, becoming a designer wasn’t a decision — it was something I grew into, naturally and inevitably. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a passion for digital experiences. I moved into UX/UI and product design, where I found the same sense of magic I felt as a child — except now, I get to shape experiences that help real people in real life.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MM : For me, design is a silent yet powerful language that connects people, emotions, and purpose. It’s more than aesthetics or functionality—it's about empathy. Design is the way I translate complex challenges into simple, meaningful solutions. It's how I listen to human needs and give them shape. As someone who grew up deeply fascinated by ancient architecture and cultural symbols, I’ve always believed that design has the potential to solve real problems and even heal. It’s not just my profession—it’s the way I see and interact with the world.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MM : I love designing products that improve lives—especially digital experiences that feel intuitive, inclusive, and empowering. I’m particularly drawn to socially impactful projects: tools that help people learn better, connect deeper, or access opportunities more easily. I enjoy working at the intersection of empathy and innovation, where design becomes a quiet force for change. Whether it's an adaptive learning app or a concept for assistive technology, I’m most fulfilled when my work makes someone feel seen, supported, or simply more in control of their world.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MM : One of the most fascinating design innovations that deeply inspired me is the transformation of urban transportation through ride-hailing platforms like Uber. While I wasn't involved in designing it, I often find myself reflecting on how this service reshaped not just how people get from one place to another, but also how we interact with digital tools in everyday life. It’s a powerful example of how user-centered design, when combined with emerging technologies, can redefine entire industries. From the simplicity of booking a ride to the transparency in pricing and driver reviews—it solved real pain points with elegance. As a designer, this model continues to influence my thinking. It reminds me that great design is not just about aesthetics or usability; it’s about empowering people, saving time, and creating systems that feel almost invisible in their efficiency. I aspire to create products that carry this level of impact—quietly transforming routines and creating positive change.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MM : As a digital product designer, I naturally gravitate toward tools and technologies that help me bring ideas to life and make them meaningful to users. Figma has become my go-to platform for collaboration and interface design—its real-time capabilities have completely changed the way teams co-create. Lately, I’ve been especially intrigued by the integration of AI in design workflows. Whether it’s using AI to personalize user experiences or leveraging it to streamline design iterations, I find it both powerful and thought-provoking. I’m also curious about emerging technologies like AR and voice interfaces—they push the boundaries of traditional UX and open up exciting new ways to design for the senses.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
MM : I feel the most creative at night, when everything is quiet and I can fully dive into my thoughts without distractions. There's something magical about the stillness that helps me connect deeply with ideas. I also find inspiration when I'm reading—books often spark unexpected ideas and help me see things from different perspectives. It’s like opening a door to a world of possibilities, and sometimes, that’s all it takes to get my creativity flowing.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MM : For me, the most important part of any design is how it makes people feel and how easily they can interact with it. I always start by understanding the user's needs, emotions, and context—because a beautiful design that confuses people or creates friction isn’t truly successful. I pay close attention to usability, accessibility, and clarity in communication. Every button, every color, every micro-interaction must have a purpose. I also focus heavily on emotional impact—how can the design build trust, create delight, or reduce stress? To me, these subtle human touches make all the difference.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MM : Honestly, it’s a mix of everything—excitement, curiosity, even moments of frustration—but at the heart of it, I feel deeply connected. Designing, for me, is an emotional experience. I often feel joy when I find elegant solutions, empathy when I imagine the user's journey, and pride when something I’ve created truly helps someone. Sometimes, I lose track of time completely—it feels like I’m in a flow state, almost like storytelling with shapes and systems. And there’s always a quiet sense of responsibility too, because I know every design I put into the world affects someone’s life, even in small ways.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MM : It’s honestly one of the most rewarding feelings. Seeing an idea evolve from a sketch or wireframe into something real—something people interact with—is incredibly fulfilling. There’s a quiet kind of pride, but also humility. I often find myself reflecting on all the iterations, the late-night decisions, the user feedback that reshaped things. When I see someone using what I designed—especially if it makes their life easier or brings a bit of delight—it’s like a silent “thank you” moment that fuels me to keep going.
DI: What makes a design successful?
MM : For me, it’s simple: if users love it, it’s successful. A design can win awards, follow every guideline, and look beautiful—but if it doesn’t resonate with real people or improve their experience, it misses the point. A successful design feels effortless to use. It understands its audience, adapts to their needs, and earns their trust over time. At the end of the day, the best compliment is when users don’t even notice the design—they just feel comfortable.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MM : The first thing I notice is how much a design makes me think—or better yet, how deeply it makes me feel. Does it solve a real, everyday need in a thoughtful way? Does it respect the context in which it lives? I also believe that we’re never judging a person—we’re evaluating the outcome of many layered decisions. Good design is never accidental; it’s the result of understanding, empathy, iteration, and clarity. A great design balances function, form, and feeling—and that’s what I look for.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
MM : As a designer, I believe we are not just solving individual problems — we’re shaping experiences that ripple into culture, habits, and even the planet. I see it as a deep responsibility to design with empathy, inclusivity, and sustainability in mind. For example, I’m passionate about reducing digital and physical waste, creating solutions that respect users’ time and attention, and designing for people with diverse abilities. Every design decision has consequences — and as designers, we hold the power to make those consequences thoughtful and beneficial to both society and the environment.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MM : I believe that good ideas and practical, user-centered designs will always have a future. The design field is evolving rapidly — we’re moving beyond just aesthetics and into designing systems, behaviors, and even ethics. With the rise of AI, accessibility, and sustainability concerns, I see design becoming more interdisciplinary and deeply human. The future belongs to those who can merge creativity with responsibility — creating not just beautiful products, but meaningful, usable, and lasting solutions.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
MM : A lot of my inspiration comes from films and series. I often find myself thinking, “If this digital product existed in this scene, that problem could have been avoided.” Of course, stories are fictional — but they spark real ideas. Watching them sharpens my visual literacy and helps me explore user needs from unexpected angles. I also actively observe new digital products, paintings, and all forms of art. For me, creativity is about staying curious and open — seeing the world not just for what it is, but for what it could be.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
MM : My design style is deeply human-centered, minimalist in form, and emotionally resonant. I’m drawn to clarity — not just in aesthetics, but in communication. I believe design should quietly empower users, making their experiences smoother, smarter, and more intuitive without overwhelming them. I often start with empathy — asking why something matters, who it’s really for, and how it fits into real lives. This has led me to explore interfaces that are emotionally aware, culturally inclusive, and technologically forward. Over time, I've found myself designing with a soft visual tone and a strong conceptual core. Whether I’m creating an AI learning tool or mentoring someone through portfolio feedback, my approach remains the same: listen deeply, solve meaningfully, and design with purpose.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
MM : I was born and raised in Iran, a country with a rich artistic heritage, where design is deeply woven into everyday life — from ancient architecture to intricate carpet patterns. Now living in the UK, I carry that cultural depth with me and often find it unconsciously influencing my work — whether in the form of visual rhythm, symbolism, or storytelling. Iranian design taught me patience, emotional subtlety, and the power of details. The contrast between East and West in my life has helped me build a design mindset that is both poetic and practical — deeply human, yet technologically adaptive. The challenge, at times, has been translating those culturally rich ideas into globally accessible formats. But I believe this is also my strength — to bridge cultures through design.
DI: How do you work with companies?
MM : I usually work as an in-house designer because I deeply value collaboration. Being embedded in a company allows me to connect closely with developers, marketing teams, product managers, and users — which gives the design process more depth and impact. However, I’m also open to freelance opportunities, especially when the project feels exciting, has a meaningful challenge, or offers me something new to learn. For me, growth and curiosity are just as important as results.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
MM : My suggestion to companies is: don’t just look at portfolios — listen to how a designer thinks. A good designer isn’t just someone who makes things look nice. They’re someone who asks the right questions, understands the user, and collaborates with the team to solve real problems. When selecting a designer, look for curiosity, empathy, and communication skills. Great design comes from understanding, not just aesthetics. Give designers space to explore, include them early in the process, and trust their insights — that’s how the best outcomes are created.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
MM : My design process always starts with empathy. I spend time understanding the users — their pain points, behaviors, and unmet needs. From there, I define clear problems and start ideating possible solutions. I sketch, wireframe, and prototype — always validating ideas through feedback and iteration. I work closely with developers, marketers, and other stakeholders to make sure the solution is not only functional but feasible and impactful. For me, design is never just about the interface — it’s about the entire experience. I believe in co-creation, staying flexible, and always learning through each step.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
MM : What a lovely question! Here are five of my favorite design items at home — each with a story behind it: 1-My orange Nespresso machine — not only does it keep me caffeinated, but its color perfectly matches a Pantone swatch I once used in a project. A little daily reminder of how design can sneak into life. 2- A handwoven Iranian rug under my desk — it keeps me grounded (literally!) and connects me to my heritage every time I step on it. 3- A bowl and plate I made myself using resin — I always keep them filled with Iranian pistachios. They’re imperfect, but I love how they reflect both craftsmanship and culture. 4- An avocado seed I planted that's now a surprisingly big houseplant — it started as an experiment, and watching it grow reminds me that patience and care matter in design too. 5- An old copper candlestick passed down from my grandfather — it’s more than just a beautiful object. It’s a piece of memory and timeless design that adds soul to my space.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
MM : My days usually begin with a quiet ritual — I wake up early, make myself a warm drink, and tidy up our home with love. It might sound simple, but creating a calm and clean space helps me feel centered and ready to face the day. After that, I dive into work — which can mean anything from brainstorming new ideas, sketching out wireframes, giving feedback to junior designers, or mentoring someone on their portfolio. I try to keep my day balanced with learning and doing. I often take breaks to read or go for a walk, and I always make time for good food — cooking is another way I express creativity. At night, I feel most inspired. That’s when I read, watch films or series that feed my imagination, or jot down new ideas. It’s a gentle, thoughtful rhythm that keeps me connected to both myself and my work.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
MM : Don’t be afraid to sketch. Don’t wait for perfection before you begin — just start. Fall in love with your design. Let it matter to you. That passion shows through every pixel. Look a lot. Expose yourself to all kinds of visuals — art, nature, architecture, products. Build your visual literacy like a muscle. And most importantly, learn how to take feedback. Good design isn’t just about talent — it’s about being open, growing, and improving with every critique. Design is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy it, stay curious, and never stop learning.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
MM : Being a designer is like having a superpower — you get to shape experiences, solve real problems, and touch people’s lives in ways they might not even notice but deeply feel. That’s incredibly fulfilling. But the flip side is, it can be emotionally demanding. You pour your heart into your work, and sometimes it gets rejected, misunderstood, or lost in business priorities. Also, the line between work and life can blur, especially when you’re constantly “thinking in design.” Still, despite the challenges, there’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing an idea come to life and knowing it made someone’s day just a little bit easier or more beautiful.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
MM : Design should always serve the human first. No matter how beautiful or innovative something is, if it doesn’t make someone’s life easier, more meaningful, or more joyful — then it’s just decoration, not design.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
MM : In my opinion, one of the most important skills for a designer is being observant. A good designer sees beyond the surface — they notice patterns, behaviors, pain points, and silent frustrations that others often overlook. Observation is the first step toward empathy. But that’s just the beginning. Other essential skills include: – Empathy: Truly understanding what people need, even when they don’t say it. – Curiosity: Always asking why, and never settling for the obvious. – Storytelling: Being able to communicate not just what you designed, but why it matters. – Resilience: Receiving critique, iterating again and again, and still staying excited. – Collaboration: Because great design rarely happens in isolation. And above all, staying humble — because design is a constant process of learning, unlearning, and relearning.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
MM : My toolbox is a mix of practical tools and emotional triggers. For design work, I mainly rely on Figma — it’s where most of the magic happens: from wireframes and UI design to prototyping and team collaboration. I also use Illustrator for vector visuals, and my iPad with Freeform or Procreate for quick sketches and raw ideas. AI tools have become a natural part of my process lately. Whether it’s brainstorming, testing variations, or generating moodboards, tools like ChatGPT, Uizard, and Khroma help me accelerate early ideation and get past creative blocks. For cross-team collaboration and project tracking, I use Jira, Trello, Slack, and Microsoft Office. For design strategy, mapping user journeys, or workshops, Miro is one of my go-to tools. I constantly observe real life and listen to people — that’s where most design ideas come from. I’m also deeply inspired by Persian architecture, traditional craftsmanship, films, and visual storytelling. Books like “The Design of Everyday Things” and “Change by Design” have shaped my thinking. But honestly, conversations with creatives and mentoring others give me even more clarity. And yes — music always plays in the background. It helps me stay in flow.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
MM : I don’t really “manage” time when I design — design is a part of my life, not a task to be scheduled. When I’m designing, I lose track of time. I get immersed. I enter this focused, emotional state where nothing else matters. Of course, deadlines and timeframes exist, but for me, the best work happens when I feel the design — not when I count the hours. It's like storytelling: you don’t stop mid-story to check the clock.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
MM : It really depends on the complexity of the project. Some ideas come together in a few days — they feel natural, almost like they were waiting to be discovered. Others take weeks or even months, especially when research, testing, and iteration are involved. I don’t rush the process; I believe good design needs time to breathe. It's not just about getting things done — it’s about getting them right.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
MM : "Where do I start? Can I do it too?" That’s the question I get asked the most — especially from people who are just stepping into the world of design. And my answer is always: Yes, you absolutely can. Design is a skill that grows with practice, observation, and persistence. No one starts out perfect. You just need to begin — even with a single simple line. The moment you dare to draw that first line, you’ve already taken the first step.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
MM : It was learning how to truly collaborate with people — not just the team, but also stakeholders and end-users. It taught me the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and walking the fine line between client needs and user expectations. I also learned to design with humility — to let go of over-idealistic visions and instead focus on functionality. Because in UX/UI, design isn’t about showing off your artistic skills — it’s about solving real problems.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
MM : Some of the clients I’ve worked with include companies in the fintech and AI industries. These projects often involved complex systems, high user expectations, and a strong need for clarity in user flows — which made the design process both challenging and rewarding.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
MM : I love design work that feels like solving a puzzle. Whether it's aligning user needs with business goals or simplifying a complex journey into something intuitive, I enjoy putting all the scattered pieces together and finding that “click” moment. It’s like quiet problem-solving with real impact — and I find that incredibly fulfilling.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
MM : I'm excited about growing both as a designer and a mentor. I see myself working in leading tech companies where I can be part of impactful, large-scale products. At the same time, I’m passionate about giving back to the design community — mentoring new designers, sharing knowledge, and helping others find their voice in this field. That balance between learning and teaching is what keeps me going.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
MM : Design is never a solo act — it’s always teamwork. Even if I’m the one creating the UI or mapping the journey, it’s impossible without input from others — developers, product owners, researchers, marketers. I love working with teams because collaboration always leads to stronger, more thoughtful design. But I also enjoy those quiet solo moments when I can focus deeply and bring ideas to life. It’s the balance of both that makes a design truly come together.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
MM : Yes, I do — but it’s still under wraps for now. I'm currently working on a new concept for next year’s A’Design competition. It’s still in the early stages, and I’d prefer to keep it private until it takes a more solid shape. I’m really excited about it, though!
DI: How can people contact you?
MM : I'm always happy to connect and support fellow creatives! Feel free to reach out via LinkedIn ( www.linkedin.com/in/mina-maazi ), book a mentorship session through ADPList ( https://adplist.org/mentors/mina-maazi?session=51003-mentorship-session), or email me directly at mina.maazi.design@gmail.com.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
MM : Yes—just a gentle reminder that design is more than creating beautiful interfaces or objects. It’s a way of thinking, a language of empathy, and a tool for solving real-world problems. I believe every designer has the power to make meaningful impact—one pixel, one conversation, one decision at a time.