Welcome to our bi-weekly encounter with the talents of Osedea! Every two weeks, immerse yourself in the captivating universe of our team. Today, spotlighting Senior UI/UX Designer, Pamela Jessica (PJ) Zito, as she unveils more about the dynamism that fuels our collective spirit.
What advice would you give to 20-year-old PJ?
I would advise 20-year-old PJ to cultivate confidence in her intuition. It's crucial to stay true to oneself, even when ideas diverge from the general trend. My sixth sense has often guided me to informed decisions, even in moments of uncertainty. This self-confidence has allowed me to overcome obstacles and take successful calculated risks.
Outside of your role at Osedea, what accomplishment are you most proud of?
Outside of my role at Osedea, the accomplishment I'm most proud of is my contribution to creating a thriving music community in Wollongong, a coastal city in Australia. By initiating 'Sunday Sessions' at a café/bar where I worked, I provided local musicians a space to perform and gain recognition. This initiative sparked a series of music events in the city, evolving into festivals similar to Osheaga. This experience perfectly merged my passion for music and my desire to make a positive impact in the community!
Where does your passion for design come from?
My innate passion for design dates back to my childhood, where curiosity and creativity always guided my explorations. After dedicating over a decade to the restaurant and service industry, I discovered an exciting opportunity: merging design with the customer experience. Creating positive and memorable experiences is a fundamental principle for me. Thus, the opportunity to work in the UX field presented itself as the ideal path to bring this vision to life, shaping meaningful experiences not only physically but also in the digital world. Design, for me, is not just a career; it's a continuous expression of my deep desire to contribute positively to the human experience. The transition to design was a natural and rewarding progression, blending my skills acquired in the service industry with my passion for creating digital and visual experiences.
What is your favorite pastime, and why?
I've been playing video games since my childhood. For me, video games are not just a pastime; they're a source of inspiration, providing immersive escapism. Imaginary worlds and stimulating puzzles, in particular, captivate me, and those who've played Zelda will understand the richness of this experience.
If you could have a conversation with anyone, living or deceased, who would you choose and why?
Choosing someone to have a conversation with, whether they're still with us or not, is a complex decision. However, if I had to make that choice, like many designers I know, it would be in favor of a discussion with Steve Jobs. I would like to explore the various facets of his personality, understand his inspiration, vision, and particularly delve into his perspective on artificial intelligence in the current context. Beyond the traditional clichés associated with my field, sharing moments of laughter with Robin Williams would also be a privilege. I would aspire to delve into his creative mind, discuss his humanitarian commitment, and talk about his memorable roles, especially in "Mrs. Doubtfire," which left a mark on my childhood.
You've lived in several places around the world. What has been your favorite place, and why?
Australia holds a special place in my heart, having lived there for five years and formed lasting friendships. It's a place where I cherish memories of year-round sunny weather, delicious dishes, the vibrant energy of the locals, and, above all, beautiful fauna and flora. Australia offered me a natural diversity I had never encountered before. Waking up to the unique sound of kookaburras on the balcony in the early morning is truly unforgettable. I recommend everyone to visit this country for at least a month to grasp its richness fully.
What is the app you can't live without?
Spotify takes a central place in my music consumption. Its simple and intuitive interface facilitates exploring new songs and artists while allowing me to easily find my preferences. Music accompanies every aspect of my life, whether at work, during my walks, or on car rides, making Spotify an essential element of my daily routine.
One thing people don't know about you that would be surprising to learn?
In the past, I had a rather surprising job as a professional fruit picker. For nearly three years, I traveled to various farms in British Columbia and Oceania, harvesting a variety of fruits such as apples, cherries, mandarins, peaches, blueberries, macadamia nuts, and almonds. This experience was an adventure that I cherished, and even today, if my body allowed it (unfortunately no longer the case), I might well reconnect with this passion for working outdoors and being in direct contact with nature.
What is your favorite place on earth and why?
British Columbia and New Zealand hold a special place for me. The main reason lies in the serenity and security I feel when surrounded by imposing mountains. Their majestic presence creates a soothing atmosphere, offering an escape from the daily tumult. Being in the midst of nature, surrounded by vast forests and crystal-clear lakes, provides a sense of calm and simplicity. It's the place where I can recharge, relax, and reconnect with myself.
What is the best personal advice you've ever received or read?
The best personal advice I've ever read comes from a designer I follow on LinkedIn. She wrote, "Success loses its magic when accompanied by exhaustion." This message emphasizes the idea that success should be achieved while respecting our personal values and maintaining balance in our lives. It's a crucial reminder of the importance of finding the balance between professional success and personal quality of life, a truth that, in my opinion, is often easy to forget.
Your biggest childhood dream?
Since my childhood, my biggest dream has always been to build my own house. Lego bricks were often taken out of their chest to bring my architectural aspirations to life. The idea of creating my personal space, building my environment, has always been a source of inspiration. This dream has evolved over time, and even today, it's never too late to make it come true. I seriously consider realizing this dream through a future project.
If you weren't in your current profession, what would be your profession, and why?
If I were not currently in the design field, I would most likely see myself in the field of teaching. The act of learning and sharing knowledge is an endless source of gratification for me. Teaching offers a unique opportunity to inspire others and contribute to their intellectual growth.
