About Me
Hi there! I’m Christa, a versatile problem solver from Trinidad and Tobago. My journey into product design has been quite fascinating, as it is where my passion, skills, education, and expertise converge harmoniously.
Experience
Brand Strategist and Designer @ The Information Inn / 2017 to present
I use research, strategy, messaging, and design to help entrepreneurs and small businesses execute business strategies and build brand identities.
Digital Content Creator @ Freelance / 2015 to 2017
I supported the achievement of business goals through campaign conceptualization, content creation, and copywriting.
Research Assistant @ The University of the West Indies / 2012 to 2015
I created research plans, performed primary and secondary research, analyzed and synthesized data, and guest lectured in undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Education
Google Professional Certificate in User Experience Design @ Coursera / 2024
I enrolled in this program to receive formal certification in applying design thinking and UX concepts to create user-centered products.
Diploma in Graphic and Website Design @ EduQual / 2020
I received training in the use of visual design principles, HTML, and CSS to create digital experiences for businesses.
Master’s Degree in Tourism Development and Management Studies @ UWI St Augustine / 2015
I completed a program aimed at developing analytical and managerial competencies in the tourism industry and diverse operational environments.
Empathy + Strategy + Functionality + Creativity
My journey to product design
I honed my business acumen in the Department of Management Studies at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus. My role as a Research Assistant ignited my love for exploring the depths of a problem to develop solutions that satisfy stakeholder objectives.
Transitioning into a career as a Brand Strategist and Designer allowed me to merge my penchant for problem-solving with my desire to help entrepreneurs and small businesses build brands they adore. Despite my business background, I pursued further education in Graphic and Website Design, recognizing the importance of creativity in achieving business goals.
While crafting and executing brand strategies for entrepreneurs brings me joy, my shift toward product design presents an opportunity to create a more transformative impact. Completing the Google UX Design Professional Certificate further solidified my commitment to this enthralling field. I see it as a chance to leverage my research skills, strategic mindset, storytelling abilities, and creative ideation to build products that meet business objectives and enrich users’ lives.
What truly captivates me about product design is the ability to fuse functionality with creativity. I enjoy the process and art of using empathy to craft experiences that resonate deeply with the diverse needs of users.
When not immersed in gaining as much knowledge as possible about product design, I usually spend time with my little rambunctious dog Ziggy and solving New York Times puzzles.
For more information about my work or to get in touch regarding employment opportunities, you may contact me at hello@christalaing.com.