We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mauro Semedo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mauro below.
Hi Mauro, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
My agency’s mission is to help small sustainable and eco-friendly brands become the obvious choice for consumers. These are the brands that are good for the planet and people, and I’ve chosen to work exclusively with them for a few important reasons.
First, there’s the challenge of consumerism and waste. I believe sustainable brands are actively addressing these problems, and by helping them succeed, I can play a small part in making a positive impact on these larger issues. But beyond that, what draws me to these brands is their vision. They don’t just sell eco-friendly products, they promote a way of being that aligns with my vision in life: helping people help themselves.
Here’s how I see it: brands that do good encourage people to be mindful, kind, and respectful, not just to the planet, but to themselves and others. When someone buys from a sustainable brand, they’re not just making a purchase; they’re adopting values and habits that reflect thoughtfulness and care. And when people start living with more awareness, it creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.
This connection between the brands I work with and the positive behaviors they inspire is what makes my mission meaningful to me. It’s about supporting brands that inspire people to live better lives while taking care of the world we share.
Mauro, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m an eCommerce UX Designer specializing in helping small sustainable brands. My mission is to support brands that are good for people and the planet by creating designs that convert visitors into customers and effectively communicate the value of their products.
I became a UX Designer because I realized how much influence design has. Initially, I considered becoming a Business Analyst, thinking that role would allow me to make an impact. But I quickly saw that being a designer offered something more: the ability to shape not just businesses but also how people think, feel, and act. That creative power aligned perfectly with my personal vision: helping people help themselves.
To achieve this, I knew I needed to develop strong skills and be highly competent. Design was an obvious choice because everything is designed. It’s everywhere, and I wanted to be part of creating those systems. From the moment I started my business, I knew I didn’t want to design for just anyone. I chose to specialize in eCommerce UX for sustainable brands because these brands align with my values and have a vision I want to support.
My work helps sustainable brands tackle key challenges.
1/ Improving Conversion: Many clients struggle to turn visitors into buyers, and that’s where I focus, on creating seamless, effective user experiences that drive results.
2/ Communicating Value: Sustainable products often come with higher prices, and it’s essential to convey why they’re worth it and educate the buyer.
3/ Overcoming Skepticism: With so much greenwashing in the market, people are cautious. I help brands build trust through transparent, and authentic design.
4/Addressing Technical Challenges: Whether it’s optimizing eCommerce platforms or fixing user experience issues, I handle the technical aspects that impact a brand’s success.
If there’s one thing that sets me apart, it’s how well I understand people. When clients work with me, they often leave happy, confident, and eager to return for more collaboration.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to help sustainable brands bridge the gap between their values and their customers. These brands face unique challenges, and I take pride in helping them navigate those obstacles while staying true to who they are.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
No, I don’t think so. Starting out is hard, exciting at first, but stressful once reality sets in. Don’t get me wrong, resources are helpful, and I wish I had access to some. But what’s more important is facing challenges early on. Those struggles refine you.
If I could speak to my younger self, I’d simply say, “Suffer.”
It sounds harsh, but suffering is part of the journey. You don’t choose it, but you do choose how you respond. Every challenge leaves its mark, shaping you in ways you might not see at first.
When things feel impossible, remind yourself: it’s not just pain, it’s growth.
I’m confident now because I suffered. Calm, patient, meticulous, and experienced, that came from the struggle. The harder it was, the better it shaped me.
In the end, challenges don’t break you, they make you.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Gifts. I offer people free value with no strings attached. It builds trust, shows what I can do, and creates genuine connections. People appreciate generosity, and it often leads to long-term relationships.
Timing is important too. When you approach people, always research them and make sure the timing is right. If they are celebrating, that’s a great moment to connect. Pay attention to both good and bad timing, it can make all the difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.maurosemedo.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauro-semedo/