More than Elevating Voices: Changing Power Structures Within Design

Event Presented By: AIGA Austin

Over the past few decades, design has changed a lot, but pathways to accessing and growing within the industry haven't kept up. AIGA Austin explores how education, professional networks, and current hiring practices contribute to an inequitable landscape. Join us to reflect on how your role has had an impact and what we can do to build a better future.

Speakers:

Lawrence Humphrey

Lawrence Humphrey has an obsession for stories and systems, in both contemplation and creation. With a BS in computer science from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign he’s worked on AI Design and most recently design consulting at IBM. His background reflects his curiosity about how distinct pieces come together to form the whole, from software applications to the tech industry itself. Using the skills he’s honed over his tenure at IBM, he aims to address rampant systemic inequity through Tech Can [Do] Better. He also occasionally writes about mental health, race, and general life reflections on Medium.

Justin Shiels

Justin Shiels has always been compelled by the power of words and pictures. He received his BFA in Graphic Design from Loyola University New Orleans and his Masters in Arts Administration from the University of New Orleans.

He is an illustrator, writer, and creative director, best known for whimsical illustrations and hand lettering that explore identity. By day, he brings brands to life at Springbox, a digital advertising agency in Austin. His passion is cultivating joy and developing inspirational content.

Omari Souza

Omari Souza is a first-generation American of Jamaican descent, raised in the Bronx NY. Before working at Texas State University, Omari gained work experience with companies such as VIBE magazine, the Buffalo News, CBS Radio, and Case Western Reserve University. He received his BFA in Digital Media from Cleveland Institute of Art and his MFA in Design from Kent State University. Omari's research explores the idea of perceptions, and how visual narratives influence culture, how we view ourselves and others around us.

Leslie Wingo

Leslie Wingo heads up Sanders\Wingo, a Texas-based independent creative agency focused on cultivating human connections through brand storytelling, media strategy, and content development. Leslie operates with a “humans first” mindset and believes that by better understanding people and the decisions they make, brands can make a big impact on the world. She fights stereotypes, challenges labels, exposes bias, and starts the tough conversations around race and gender. I use my platform for advocacy, raising up marginalized voices and championing women and minorities.

Tiffany Stewart

Tiffany Stewart is an accomplished designer who loves to problem solve and rabbit-hole. She’s THAT friend, if you know what I mean. She holds both an Electrical Engineering degree and a Graphic Design degree and is an avid traveler. The level of nerd-dom is also quite high, so if you enjoy discussing comics, design, books, movies or physics motion equations, she’s your gal. She’s also known to cook a damn good meal and is currently exploring the food culture of her home country, Jamaica.

Event Details:

You’ll be emailed instructions for how to join the event at least 24-hours prior to the event start time. The information will be sent via Eventbrite so please check your spam if you don't see it in your inbox.

Austin Design Week is committed to a harassment-free event experience for everyone. Our Code of Conduct can be found here. We are also committed to creating an inclusive, accessible space. All virtual events will have automated captioning. If you need additional accommodations, please email us at info@austindesignweek.org to let us know.

For the full Austin Design Week schedule, check out austindesignweek.org.