This week presented a unique opportunity as we attended a lecture by Magpie Studio, featuring two accomplished female speakers—an uncommon occurrence in the NUA lecture series. The presence of female strength in this setting was particularly enlightening, adding a compelling dimension to the overall experience.
The lecture itself was captivating, with the speakers delving into their collaborations with various brands and illustrating the evolution of their ideas into the final products. Noteworthy examples included their work with Bandido coffee and Plenish. The Bandido coffee project, in particular, stood out to me due to its exceptionally clever design process, evoking a delightful “smile in the mind” sensation. The simplicity of the design, coupled with its remarkable effectiveness, left a lasting impression.
Personally, one of the most impactful segments of the lecture was the discussion on ‘women in design.’ As a woman navigating the industry, especially in UX design, where male dominance can be intimidating, hearing two successful women share their insights was truly inspiring. Their mantra of “just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible” resonated deeply, encouraging perseverance and determination. The exploration of how women can support each other in the field was equally valuable, emphasising the importance of a supportive community to navigate challenges and pursue ambitious goals. Their podcast recommendations on women in the workplace sparked my interest, providing a resource to further explore ways to establish a presence in the industry.
In summary, the lecture was a brilliant experience that centered on women in the design industry and offered valuable insights on overcoming obstacles to become the best designer one can be. The fact that one of the lecturers was a former NUA student instilled confidence and hope, serving as a testament that success after graduation is attainable.
