Finding My Way into Tech
I’ve been lucky to work on projects that pushed me creatively and socially—building tiny houses for people experiencing homelessness in Oakland, designing shoes with high school students in San Francisco, and arranging floral mandalas as a cultural ambassador by Ghirardelli Square. My background is in industrial design, where I worked with 3D printers and laser cutters at an art university, creating 3D parts for mirrors and other installed products.
When the pandemic hit, I lost my job and couldn’t return to previous roles, even my work as a lifeguard. Soon after, I joined a startup inspecting 3D eyewear models and helping build a virtual try-on catalog. I became curious about the planning and development of the app, working cross-functionally to suggest features and improvements—many of which were adopted. That experience made me realize I wanted to understand how digital products are built and explore tech roles that could eventually allow me to work remotely.
While working from a coworking space, I met people from different industries. A conversation with a data analyst was a turning point: he shared free resources to learn UX design and front-end development, and reminded me that learning by doing often matters more than formal degrees. Inspired, I dove into coding and design, challenged myself, and took a leap of faith offering my services as an independent designer. Traveling in Southeast Asia, I honed storytelling and video production skills while gaining experience in social media management.
Today, I combine UX principles, low-code web design, Figma prototypes, and social media content to create digital experiences that help brands shine—always exploring how technology can solve real-world problems without losing connection to what makes them human.
My Tech Journey
My background is in industrial design. I had the chance to help build tiny houses for people experiencing homelessness, design shoes with high school students, and arrange floral mandalas, among other projects. I also worked with 3D printers and laser cutters at an art university as a technician.
When the pandemic hit, I joined a startup where I inspected 3D eyewear models as a QA helping build a virtual try-on catalog. Also, I contributed by suggesting new features and improving workflows. I realized I was good at it and really enjoyed the process. This sparked my curiosity about how digital products are built. Later, I dove into UX design and front-end development with the help of friends I met at a coworking space, and soon found myself hooked.
“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.'”
*Mary Anne Radmacher
“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.'”
*Mary Anne Radmacher
Moving Forward
As a first-generation Latina, turning challenges into opportunities I felt like practicing what I had learned and I started a digital freelance business called Brandmade, helping small businesses build brands and connect with clients. I believe design is about asking questions and creating solutions that are both meaningful and practical.
I have found in remote work a better alignment with wellness and the chance to learn about innovation and cultural knowledge traveling as a digital nomad. I’m always on the lookout for fresh ideas, and I hope to join a team that values growth and community.
What Defines Me
☘︎ Curiosity
☘︎ Perseverance
☘︎ Equanimity
☘︎ Interconnectedness
One foot in front of the other
As a first-generation Latina, I’ve learned how to turn challenges into opportunities—at least, that’s what I thought when I started offering freelance services to friends, family, and anyone I crossed paths with. That’s how Brandmade was born. I help small businesses build their brands, refine their offers, and connect with their ideal clients. What drives me is seeing people feel empowered as their ideas take shape and their goals become clearer. Over time, I’ve realized that many business challenges come from a lack of research or missing the chance to offer something truly unique. For me, design is about asking the right questions and understanding the context—it’s not just about making things look good. I focus on working smarter, with intentional strategies that make sure service and visual identity align in a way that’s meaningful and practical. My goal is always to create offers that are both personable and substantial, and that feel authentic.
The freedom of remote work allows me to balance my career with wellness, keeping me energized and clear-headed. Traveling as a seasonal digital nomad has opened my eyes to countless ways to solve problems and rethink how we approach life. When I’m not working, you’ll find me hiking, riding motorbikes, or attending tech events—always on the lookout for fresh ideas and new connections. My goal is to join a forward-thinking team that fosters a healthy, reciprocal work community where we can all grow together.
Values that drive me:
☘︎ Curiosity ☘︎ Perseverance ☘︎ Equanimity ☘︎ Interconnectedness