Written by: on July 31, 2019
Meet Clara, a UX Researcher, specialising in Tech for Good and one of our mentors from Manchester Health Academy. Clara is originally from Brazil but has lived in Manchester for the past 4 years.
Favourite food: Spaghetti with homemade tomato sauce
Favourite animation: The Lion King
Favourite quote: “Reserving judgments is a matter of infinite hope.” F Scott Fitzgerald
My path has had many chapters and I’ve played different characters. I started as a film and TV producer but then worked as a journalist, marketing manager, events producer, freelance web designer… I think what always kept things together was my eagerness to help other people. If I ever felt that I wasn’t doing social good in my job, I moved onto something else. I’ve now found myself in my current role as a UX Researcher because I feel like I can promote positive change and advocate for users’ needs in the tech for good sector.
A lot of empathy, knowing how to listen and ask good questions, appreciating the power of silence and an understanding of patterns.
Wow, my days can be so different depending on the project. In one day I usually do a combination of things that can vary from writing a script of questions, recruiting people to be interviewed, talking to users for hours, and analysing data. That whilst having fun with my team.
Don’t underestimate the power of silence. Giving people time to think and formulate their ideas can often lead to some beautiful things.
I wanted to become an InnovateHer mentor because I’m truly passionate about education and helping young people reach – and exceed – their potential. I’m also a supporter of gender equality in all aspects of life and I feel that InnovateHer not only promotes this idea but also does something about it.