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About Me

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With over 15 years of expertise in product design strategy, I have a proven track record of delivering high-quality designs that elevate the digital experience across diverse industries. Currently, as a Creative Director at Photon—a digital agency that partners with 40% of Fortune 100 companies—I manage a talented team of designers and researchers dedicated to creating best-in-class products. My contributions have been recognized three times for excellence in leadership, performance, and quality output.

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I adopt a people-centric approach to design and leadership, prioritizing empathy for both the creators and users of products. My design practice integrates product research, experience strategy, UI design, and usability testing, ensuring that business objectives and user needs are effectively met. I have worked with several prestigious brands, guiding teams in developing human-centered experiences that resonate deeply with users. I am committed to establishing design practices that cultivate strong relationships among team members and stakeholders, fostering environments that inspire collaboration and innovation.

Staying Connected

As a design industry expert, I share my expertise through many channels. I am deeply committed to mentoring and shaping the careers of emerging designers, guiding them in the application of effective design thinking methodologies. I empower professionals and organizations to address complex challenges through innovative design solutions, all while maintaining strict adherence to budgets and timelines. My approach not only nurtures talent but also drives impactful outcomes for businesses, ensuring that design serves as a catalyst for growth and success.

Contributed as a ..

Speaker

Career Counseler

Portfolio Reviewer

Design Consultant

Design Juror

Design Panelist

Guest Lecturer

Workshop Facilitator

I am currently focused on preparing for my "The Future of Designers" talk, where I will explore how the design landscape is evolving and highlight the critical need for designers to upgrade their skills to thrive amid rapid advancements in technology and product design. These discussions aim to inspire and equip designers to navigate the changing industry with confidence and adaptability.

Press & Communities

Actively contributed to various design communities and have been featured or cited as a design expert in prestigious publications. 

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© 2024 by Smita Pawa.

© 2025 by Smita Pawa. 

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