University Writings
Portfolio purpose
My design portfolio is one of the most important tools in my arsenal. It's more than just a collection of work but a public facing space that showcases how I solve problems, my approach to design and how I communicate ideas visually. Its main purpose is to showcase my skills, design process, and growth journey as a designer, while also helping me connect with future, clients, or employers.
My portfolio is a testament to my ability to take ideas from concept to MVP, to commercially ready productsand showcases my skills across a range of tools and mediums. Using a minimalistic approach, I structured the content to be clear and easy to navigate, making it simple for visitors to find both visual work and written reflections that show my thinking. It also acts as an evolving space that I will continue to update with new projects, insights, and learnings as I progress through my studies and my work in the industry.
Unit Reflection
Professional Orientation (Design) (10336)
This unit has given me the opportunity to step back and reflect on how I presentmy self as a designer, highliting multiple important aspects of my social image, professionalism beyond the basic standards and how I communicate this to future employers and clients. Completing activities and assignments turned into a reflection of who I am and who I want to be as a designer and a research project to understand my values, skills, and the kind of design practice I want to develop moving forward.
One of the most useful yet challenging aspects of the unit was having to write clearly and articulate all these revelations, reflections, and new thoughts and considerations, like what the role of my portfolio is, its objective, audience, and structure. It forced me to think strategically about how to present myself and my work online. I also appreciated the emphasis and exploration of ethical design, which gave me a chance to unpack what I know and what I can learn.
Next semester, I hope to build upon this foundation by refining my writing, updating my projects more frequently, and further personalising the visual identity of the site. Another priority that revealed it self while going throgh the unit, is the necessity of learning how I document my designs. Overall, this unit has helped me take an important step toward a more professional and intentional design practice.
Codesof conduct & Ethical design
To maintain trust, integrity, and accountability in the work we create, following codes of conduct is essential. Because of the potential reach and impact our design my have, it is critical to be responsible for the social, ethical, and cultural impact of our designs. Whether working on a commercial product or a not-for-profit platform, our choices shape how people access information, interact with products, and navigate the world and extreme case, how they function and live their lives.
Taking UX design as an example, responsibility becomes especially important when considering accessibility, inclusivity, and ethical research. This includes ensuring the use of transparent and inclusive language and that interfaces are accessible to people with diverse needs.
As designers, we are also responsible for challenging unethical decisions, such as dark patterns, misleading designs, or practices that are not in the best interest of the consumer. Following industry codes like the AGDA Code of Ethics or the Design Institute of Australia’s guidelines helps us maintain a professional standard when it comes to ethical decisions.
Respectful and ethical engagement with Indigenous Australians in design work
Designers in Australia are responsible for engaging with Indigenous Australians in ethical, respectful, and culturally informed ways. This means recognising the deep knowledge systems, two-way learning, traditions, and stories that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities hold. Designers must have a clear understanding that design work must not appropriate, misrepresent, or oversimplify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. This involves meaningful consultation, co-design where possible, and a commitment to listening before designing.
Seeking permission, giving credit, and involving Indigenous voices in any project that touches on their heritage, identity, or culture is not negotiable.
For example, I recently designed a health resource in the form of a medical guideline for a platform involving Indigenous communities. I prioritised culturally safe practices, used appropriate language, and collaborated with Indigenous stakeholders throughout the process to reflect their design identity by co-designing step by step.
See the website here: