Today we’d like to introduce you to Anjali Joshi.

Hi Anjali, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Since I was young, I’ve been fascinated by solving problems creatively. My journey into design was sparked by a deep curiosity about how things work and how design can positively impact people’s lives. As I grew older, I realized that good design isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about understanding users’ needs and crafting effective solutions. Recognizing my interest, my mother reached out to a wide network of contacts, including extended family, mentors, and family friends, to help me explore potential career paths. This support system was invaluable in guiding my early steps.

My passion for design truly flourished when I discovered the concept of product thinking through a family friend. This approach, emphasizing empathy and holistic problem-solving, resonated deeply with me. I became enthralled by the prospect of creating products that genuinely connect with users, anticipating their needs and enhancing their experiences. Over time, I embraced product thinking and holistic design, focusing on user-centered solutions infused with the essence of graphic design to enhance experiences.

Pursuing my bachelor’s in Applied Arts and my master’s in Graphic Design has been the cherry on top of my product design career. I love collaborating with teams to make people’s lives easier through thoughtful design. My journey began with a deep dive into user research and human-centered design principles, honing my skills in iteration and prototyping. This path, fueled by my passion for problem-solving, love for connecting with users, and commitment to product thinking, has led to over 4 years of experience designing for users in the tech world. Additionally, I have a robust academic background with 7 years of education, including foundational studies, rigorous undergraduate training, and specialized master’s-level coursework.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey hasn’t been smooth at all. From figuring out which design coursework to opt for, to stressing over submissions and enduring sleepless nights, it took a lot of hard work. Overcoming obstacles demanded resilience and dedication. Like any individual, I faced moments of wavering motivation and setbacks. Additionally, I confronted personal challenges that are part of everyday life. However, despite these hurdles, I am grateful to have arrived at this juncture. I owe much of my strength to the incredible people who have been my support system during difficult times, offering solace and assistance in alleviating anxiety and stress.

For Instance, I also struggled to make good friends due to the competitive nature of individuals around me. Being overly successful can sometimes lead to additional challenges, but I have been fortunate to find a gem of friends who share my belief that “we grow by lifting each other.” I am grateful to each of my close friends for their support. There were times when I had to print actual artifacts for my projects to make them successful, and that wouldn’t have been possible without the help of those around me.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a multidisciplinary designer with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Arts and a Master’s degree in Graphic Design and Visual Experience. My work is centered on crafting innovative solutions infused with a touch of fun. By blending my expertise in product design with my flair for graphic design, I create approachable and engaging experiences.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine these disciplines, allowing me to approach design challenges with a unique perspective. I am known for my forward-thinking approach, always exploring the question of “where do we want to be?” rather than merely focusing on “what do we want to do next?”

In my design approach, I prioritize creating experiences for humans, going beyond the traditional concept of designing for users. My particular strength lies in conceptual design, which enables me to strategize and shape interfaces while paying meticulous attention to the finer details that elevate their overall quality.

I am most proud of my ability to integrate these elements seamlessly, resulting in designs that are not only functional and visually appealing but also meaningful and future-focused.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work with me, collaborate with me, or support me in a variety of ways. I am always open to new and exciting projects that challenge my creativity and expertise. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive design strategy, a conceptual design for an innovative product, or a visual experience that stands out, I bring a unique blend of skills to the table.

Collaboration is at the heart of my process, and I thrive in environments where ideas can be freely exchanged and explored. I enjoy working with diverse teams, contributing my multidisciplinary perspective, and learning from others’ insights. If you’re interested in partnering on a project, I am keen to explore how we can create something exceptional together. For instance, last year, I was approached by Meta’s Instagram @design team for a content partnership. My work was shared collaboratively on Instagram, allowing it to be viewed both on my profile and on Instagram’s design page. This collaboration helped me make valuable connections and broaden my network significantly.

For those looking to support my work, sharing my portfolio with your network or recommending my services to potential clients is greatly appreciated. I also welcome opportunities to speak at events, participate in workshops, or contribute to publications where I can share my knowledge and experiences with a broader audience.

In today’s tech-savvy world, connecting with others has been easier. If you’re interested in collaborating, supporting my work, or simply getting in touch, you can reach out to me via email through my website or connect with me on Instagram. Additionally, features and publications often share my social media accounts, further extending my reach and making it easy for people to connect with me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anjalijoshi.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestrokesofpen/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjali-joshi-449955208/