At just 28, she has already made significant strides in the UX field, currently working on innovative mobile solutions for Volvo Penta. Join us as we delve into Barbara’s journey from Rio to Sweden, her role at Sebratec, and how her practical approach and empathetic design philosophy are making waves in the UX community.
Hey Barbara, what’s your story?
I’m from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and I just turned 28. Back in 2013, I was in high school, attending a school that combined regular and technical education. That’s where I got into Multimedia, sparking my interest in design. After graduating, I started an internship as a UX designer while pursuing my college studies. I eventually earned my Bachelor’s degree in Design, which provided a solid foundation. Since then, I’ve worked on various projects, each with unique challenges and learning opportunities, with a special focus on mobile design.
How did you come to join Sebratec?
My journey with Sebratec began when my husband got a job here. We were drawn to the opportunity to work in Sweden and appreciated the company’s reputation. Personally, having experience as a consultant, I enjoyed the idea. Sebratec gave me a chance, and I got an assignment at Volvo Group Design, which aligned well with my interests and expertise.
You’re a UX Designer at Volvo Penta. What does that mean in practice?
I’m a UX Designer working on Volvo Penta projects, which has been a new and exciting experience since I wasn’t familiar with the boating industry before. My main responsibilities include balancing business needs, technical feasibility, and the boating context to create mobile app solutions that our customers love. I focus on the app’s UI and interactions, ensuring everything is intuitive and user-friendly. It’s all about turning these different aspects into practical designs that make a real difference for people.
What do you enjoy most about your position?
What I enjoy most about being a UX Designer is seeing real people engage with something I helped create. It’s like witnessing your brainchild come to life! Even when there’s room for improvement, I thrive on the challenge. It’s like cracking a puzzle – you get to dive into people’s needs, tweak things, and make their experience even better.
It’s like cracking a puzzle – you get to dive into people’s needs, tweak things, and make their experience even better.
With so many moving parts, what tactics do you use when faced with challenges?
I stick to what’s within my capabilities. I take a step back to analyze the available options and select the ones that best fit the context and current circumstances. For me, it’s about finding the most effective solution for the situation at hand, which resonates with my practical approach.
How was it like adapting to a totally new country?
It’s impressive how Sweden manages to strike a perfect balance between work, personal life, and nature. The distinct seasons add to the charm, as they’re very pronounced compared to what I was used to back home. Adapting to a completely new country was a challenge, especially arriving close to winter. In Rio, 20 degrees is considered cold, so experiencing a real winter was entirely new for me. However, everything turned out well, and I’ve learned to appreciate the unique aspects of each season. While there were some cultural shocks initially, I’ve adapted quite well and feel at home here now.
What opportunities for growth have you encountered since joining Sebratec?
One thing I appreciate is how Sebratec is always interested in how my assignment is going. It’s nice to know I can speak up if something’s not working out and get advice on how to make it better. Plus, being able to give insights into the company’s evolution is a reality. I get to share my ideas and opinions on what we want as employees, which makes me feel more connected and involved.
You’ve previously described Sebratec as “a home to come back to”. What aspects of our culture resonate most with you?
The culture at Sebratec is deeply rooted in its people. There’s a clear understanding that it’s the individuals within the company who drive its success. As a designer, I find this particularly resonant because my work involves understanding people’s needs and crafting solutions tailored to them. This alignment with Sebratec’s values highlights the importance of empathy and human-centered design in our work, which truly resonates with me.
Speaking of human centric. How do you maintain a work-life balance?
Outside of work, my husband and I love traveling on our motorcycle, often camping along the way. We also enjoy road trips with our two dogs, who joined us all the way from Brazil. This passion for travel blends with my work at Penta, where I design for fellow boating enthusiasts who love to explore new places. To balance work and personal life, I make sure to set clear boundaries and dedicate time to both my job and my interests, ensuring I stay inspired and refreshed.
Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
I wish to be making meaningful contributions to both Sebratec and the wider UX design community. Within the company, I want to help Sebratec get more involved in the design scene. Beyond that, I aim to share insights and best practices with the UX community, all while sharpening my own skills and knowledge. Ultimately, I hope to be actively contributing to the future of UX, both locally and on a broader scale.
Is there anything you’re particularly looking forward to?
I’m excited about the future of my career, especially with emerging technologies like AI shaping our work. It’s fascinating to witness these changes in how humanity interacts with technology, and I’m eager to be a part of it.
