Hello! I’m Gulay Syeda, and my name means "a rose" or "a flower." I hail from the vibrant city of Karachi, Pakistan, where I've spent most of my life living near the serene coastline. My journey in design began early, leading me to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Communication and Design from Habib University. After working in the design industry for a few years, I moved to Canada to further my passion and obtained a Master's degree in Inclusive Design from OCAD University.
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Throughout my career, I've worked on a variety of design projects, including creating brand-specific visuals, redesigning user experiences for mobile and web platforms, and researching inclusive design strategies for Intact. My experience includes roles such as a Graphic Designer at Fully Promoted South Etobicoke, an Inclusive Design Intern at Intact, and a Product Designer at Habib Bank Limited.​
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Outside of my professional life, I have two cats, Leo and Zoey, who I adore (and occasionally want to strangle). I enjoy scented candles, and like my picture on the homepage, I've grown to appreciate snow little by little.
Design Philosophy
My design philosophy is rooted in the belief that design should be inclusive, user-centered, and driven by empathy. Here are the core principles that guide my work:
Inclusivity: I strive to create designs that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or background. This means considering a wide range of user needs and ensuring that my designs are usable by as many people as possible.
User-Centered Design: Understanding the user is at the heart of my design process. Through thorough research, user testing, and iterative design, I ensure that the end product meets the real needs and expectations of the users.
Empathy: Empathy is essential in understanding the unique challenges that diverse users face. By putting myself in their shoes, I can design solutions that are not only functional but also meaningful and impactful by including them as co-designers.
Collaboration: Design is a collaborative process. I believe in working closely with stakeholders, including users, developers, and other designers, to create well-rounded and effective solutions. This interdisciplinary approach leads to richer insights and better outcomes.