About me
Hi, my name is Amelie. I’ve been in the design industry for 12+ years, having worked with all kinds of clients — from startups, to small businesses, to tech and enterprise companies. I currently design at Apolitical, a platform dedicated to making governments smarter.
I spent my formative years between Hong Kong and the Philippines, before building a creative career in the U.S. My interests include drawing, drinking tea, watching artsy films, collecting knick-knacks, and expanding my world through travel.
Work History
Before Apolitical, I worked for several years as an independent contractor, augmenting teams at companies such as Airbnb, SmartNews and Pact Studio. I’ve led design at a clothing startup called Both& Apparel. I designed for product at Twitter and was part of the creative team at award-winning agencies ueno. and Moving Brands. My work experience has given me unique insight and an integrated perspective across brand, marcom, and product. Below is a small sample of clients I’ve worked with to date.
Design Practice
There are a few key attributes I’ve developed over the years that inform the way that I work.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY
I approach design holistically, across different mediums, touch-points, dimensions and techniques, whether it is static or motion, pixels or systems, print or digital. Having this mindset also means I work well with other disciplines, being able to bridge the gap of understanding between various tools and crafts.
STRATEGIC
I always lead with design decisions backed by strategy, a clear understanding of the audience we’re serving, and why.
I’m not afraid to further investigate or reframe a challenge to make sure the right problem is being addressed in the first place.
COLLABORATIVE
Whether it’s working directly with a client, fellow designers, or cross-functional teams, I understand what it means to be a creative partner and a collaborator. Great work doesn’t happen in a vacuum.
INTERSECTIONAL
My intersecting identities as an expat and a third culture kid mean that I approach life and design with multiple worldviews, not just one. I also aim to leverage my lived experiences and sensibilities to advocate for inclusive, human-centered design.
Asides
I’ve written an informal essay on my experience working in the U.S. for over 8 years as an H1B worker. If you’re interested in the topic, please check it out.
I have been a guest speaker at a notable design conference called First Round, hosted by UnderConsideration.
I have also been a guest critic for portfolio reviews at my alma mater MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art), and at CCA (California College of the Arts).