The next feature in our Cybaverse Success Stories focuses on our UI/UX Designer, Amy Nowshadi. After joining us in September 2023, Amy has made a lasting impact on the team with both her charasmatic nature and hard work she has been putting in on the designs of Cybaverse.ai.
We sat down with Amy and asked her some questions to get an insight into her life at Cybaverse and how her journey has progressed.
Can you share a bit about your professional journey and experience leading up to joining Cybaverse? What attracted you to work here?
Prior to joining Cybaverse, I studied at Southampton Solent University and obtained a degree in Computer Science. This is where I initially discovered that I had a passion for design and from here I started to draw and design during any spare time that I had. As I was only doing this in my free time, I didn't have the confidence to pursure it as a career and so I proceeded from here to explore something that I knew I was good at, which was data science.
During my time studying, I carried out a placement year at Disney as a Data Scientist and it was here that I realised working with the large corporate organisations was not for me. Upon completion of University, I took a job working within a FinTech company as a Data Analyst which was not my passion so again this lead me to designing by doing some freelance work whenever I got the chance to in my spare time.
Cybaverse approached me initially to carry out some freelance design work for Cybaverse.ai in which I happily accepted. After working with Cybaverse for a month, I was presented with a job interview opportunity for a full-time role as a UI/UX Designer. Inspired by the idea of pursuing work that truly brings me joy, I embraced the chance to make a career transition.
How has your educational and professional background contributed to your success in your current role at Cybaverse?
My educational background in computing played a big part in preparing me for my current role at Cybaverse. Through pursuing a computing degree, I delved into various aspects of the field, broadening my understanding beyond just coding. This exploration led me to discover more about UX and UI design, revealing that design is far more complex than meets the eye.
My journey highlighted the scientific principles behind effective design strategies. Understanding the rationale behind design choices goes beyond aesthetics; it involves leveraging empirical evidence to optimise user experiences. This knowledge has been super helpful in shaping my approach to design at Cybaverse, allowing me to create solutions that are both visually appealing and functionally effective.
What unique skills, experiences, or perspectives do you bring to your role at Cybaverse?
I am always willing to learn and never find myself too afraid to ask any question.
Provide a brief summary of some of the work you've undertaken at Cybaverse, such as 'calls with clients, involvement in specific projects etc.
I've been the lead designer on our new cyber security management platform, Cybaverse.ai This has been a long, but exciting, journey from being able to go from the initial stages of brainstorming and scribbling ideas onto a whiteboard, right through to final testing. Now we're seeing clients properly using the the platform and giving us incredibly positive feedback which is very rewarding to know users are enjoying the experience that we have created for them.
Not only this, but I have been designing and setting up training courses that are created to educate others on the importance of cyber security.
In your opinion, what sets Cybaverse apart as a workplace? How does the company foster a positive and inclusive culture?
Having previously experienced the dynamics of large corporate environments, I find Cybaverse to be refreshingly different in a positive way. I feel that each employee is truly viewed and listened to here which in turn has created a safe space for employees to feel that they can share their thoughts and views. Each day brings a new challenge and I've loved coming in each day to tackle these.
Have you undertaken or plan to undertake any training or development that will assist with your role at Cybaverse?
I've decided to enroll in additional UX courses to enhance my design skills and contribute to enhancing the platform's overall user experience.
What are your hobbies or passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy keeping healthy and going to the gym, unwinding with some video games or learning some new recipes cooking wise. I also enjoy creating digital art and building wooden sculptures.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to anyone joining Cybaverse?
As cliche as it sounds, just be yourself and be flexible! The cyber security industry is super fast paced but in the best way possible. Also, make sure you practice your ping pong skills!