Thoughtworker Spotlight: Yooni Park
Meet Yooni Park – a passionate product designer at Thoughtworks Canada who weaves her artistic creativity, user-centric thinking and technical prowess to craft innovative solutions. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity and empathy, she channels her creativity into tackling complex problems, exploring product thinking strategies and improving how people interact with technology.?
From balancing cultures and trusting her journey, Yooni continually seeks fresh perspectives, recognizing the endless possibilities for innovation and growth. A multi-talented individual, you can find her leaving an impact through her user-centered designs, sociologically inspired artwork or even teaching K-pop dance classes to fellow Thoughtworkers.?
Beyond work, she’s always on a quest for the perfect matcha, practicing the latest dance choreography or exploring cafes in Toronto. As a problem solver and a future-forward person, can you guess what Yooni’s favourite product is? Find out in this week’s Thoughtworker Spotlight!
Tell us about what you do in 50 words or less
I am a product designer who combines artistic creativity, user-centered thinking and technical proficiency to create innovative solutions. With a passion for understanding user needs and positively impacting the business, I thrive on tackling complex problems and constantly exploring product thinking strategies.
What’s the most interesting challenge you're working on?
I am developing a product for business communications, improving organizational leadership satisfaction. One exciting aspect of it is integrating new technologies into the work environment for continuous engagement. As we shape the future, there are some ambiguities as well as endless possibilities for innovation and growth. It is exciting to embrace this challenge and explore how emerging technologies like AI and VR can revolutionize workplace communication and collaboration.
What inspired you to have the career you have today??
A curiosity drives my creativity to understand the “why” behind things, coupled with a strong sense of empathy. I have always been someone that others turn to when they need someone to listen to their problems and offer solutions. This empathy extends to my background in media art. Identity-based and sociological themes often influenced my artwork, focused on gender inequality and people of colour, with the hope of building a better world.?
This people-oriented and problem-solving mindset naturally led me to pursue a career in product design. My career path was a natural progression that allowed my creativity to shine through while satisfying my desire to positively impact people’s lives through innovative and user-centered design solutions.
What achievement are you most proud of in your career to date?
Despite facing various challenges while living in this country where I didn’t grow up, I have found myself in a job that brings me joy. Although I still encounter difficulties due to language barriers and misinterpreting cultural nuances, the journey of becoming a product designer is enriching. Witnessing my designs come to life and positively impact users' lives fills me with deep pride. It is truly fulfilling to know that my work has the potential to improve how people interact with technology and enhance their daily experiences.
If you could go back in time and give yourself career advice, what would it be??
Trust yourself with all decisions and enjoy the journey by focusing on the process. When you look back, you will be proud of what you have learned and how you have accomplished.
What do you love to do outside of work?
On weekends, you can find me exploring cafes in search of the best matcha in the city or practicing in a dance studio. My favourite weekend activity is bringing a matcha latte or bubble tea to the studio and learning k-pop choreography.?
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what album, movie, and book would you take with you?
And finally, what’s your favorite product and why?
AI tools have saved my life, from my work to my daily activities as a personal assistant. Some of my favorites are Notion AI, Chat GPT and Grammarly AI. It allows me to streamline my workflow and improve productivity, enhancing my writing and communication skills. The power of AI technology never ceases to amaze me, and I am excited to see how it continues to evolve and shape the future.