Name: Adanma Ojukwu
Position: UX Designer and Web Developer
Pronouns: She/Her
Company: Adanma Creates
Portfolio: www.adanmacreates.com

Bio:

Adanma Ojukwu is a UX Designer and Web Developer with a background in illustration. She has a passion for connecting aesthetics with function, data with empathy, and strategy with creativity. She also enjoys digital illustration and often looks for opportunities to incorporate art into her website projects. Throughout her career, she has worked in-house at design agencies and at national software companies. Design systems, accessibility standards, and front-end development are her main areas of expertise.  Currently, she freelances as a design and developer, helping agencies, start-ups, and all kinds of businesses establish and enhance their online presence and experiences. Outside of work, Adanma enjoys doing yoga, dancing, fashion and traveling.

How did you get started in design?

I used to draw on any scrap of paper I could find; I even designed websites on paper at one point. Eventually, I started learning Photoshop and CSS, and worked a few internships in Downtown STL that led me to a Web Development job. My experience working with users and web best practices helped me transition to UX Design.

What is something you’re most proud of?

Teaching myself to code, and how to utilize that skill to begin freelancing has been a challenging but rewarding part of my career and personal development.

Who are your creative heroes?

I really enjoy the work of Brad Frost, who wrote Atomic Design, a book outlining the methodology for creating and maintaining robust design systems. 

Where do you find your inspiration?

I naturally look at problems in my own life, in the community, or from people on social media and think of how they can be solved. Or, just day to day I see products that have features I could use in my designs or things that could be improved.

What is the best part of working in your profession?

Working in UX Design has allowed me to be both strategic and creative when designing interfaces and flows. It has also given me a way to combine my love for code with design. Overall, I love the versatility of the profession, and how it centers people and creativity. 

What piece of advice would you offer fellow creatives?

Don’t overthink or hesitate; gather information, but then execute. You learn more by making ‘mistakes’.

What is one book that all creatives should read?

It is not art-related, but ‘The Courage to be Disliked’ by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi was the last book I read that helped me get over some of the imposter syndrome designers often go through. 

What was the last song you listened to?

I listen to a lot of random stuff. I was last listening to a House Mix DJ Set; great to have on in the background while doing deep work. 

What is your favorite place in St. Louis?

I love being around the Central West End and Midtown; there’s so much art and culture to experience, and great opportunities to meet people. Sophie’s Artist Lounge comes to mind as one of my favorite bar/venues in the area.