YoonJi Yang is a multidisciplinary designer based in New York City. She works as a designer and has experience across digital platforms, product design, and print. Currently, she is the leading Visual Designer at Homethrive, a technology-enabled healthcare services platform and program, overseeing Homethrive’s visual identity. Previously, YoonJi was at Media. Monks as a designer, collaborating on projects supporting WhatsApp and Horizon World from Meta. YoonJi’s body of work and experiences encompass a wide range of mediums, from static to digital interactive graphic design. She holds a BFA in Communication Design from Parsons School of Design in New York City.
Thank you for joining us, YoonJi. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I am a digital designer with a strong passion for design, particularly in digital mediums. I am a Visual Designer at Homethrive, Inc., a tech-enabled healthcare service company, where I lead almost all visual aspects.
My journey into design began in childhood, influenced by my experiences living in various countries. Constantly adjusting to new languages and cultures, I found solace and confidence in art, using it as a means of self-expression and connection. Over time, this passion evolved into a deep commitment to communication design, an empathetic language that transcends cultural barriers through imagery.
What brings you to design? What is your process like?
My journey into design has been deeply influenced by my diverse life experiences. Each place I’ve lived has provided unique insights into the profound impact design has on connecting people globally. This realization fascinated me, leading me to delve into the intricate elements of visual communication and deepen my passion for the field. I wanted to learn a deeper understanding of this universal language, which led me to pursue further studies in the field.
My design process extends beyond mere visuals; it encompasses the significant importance of communication skills alongside technical knowledge. Effective communication is integral to every stage, from conceptualization to execution, ensuring that design not only visually communicates but also resonates deeply with its audience.
How do you collaborate with your clients? What is the most exciting thing you’ve done or accomplished so far?
I enjoy working closely with clients who push me to explore new design avenues. This often involves conducting thorough research and seeking inspiration independently. While my primary role is as an in-house designer at Homethrive, one of my most exhilarating endeavors has been leading the visual rebranding of the company. From numerous logo iterations to a comprehensive overhaul of color schemes, type explorations, mockups, and website redesign, the process was filled with iterations and challenges. However, navigating through this journey as the lead designer not only pushed my creative boundaries but also facilitated significant personal growth. I take pride in the outcome and how it reflects my evolution as a designer.
What does “community” mean to you? How do you see yourself in a community?
Community, to me, feels like a warm embrace within the design world—an active exchange of ideas, support, and inspiration among fellow designers, professionals, and enthusiasts. It’s where we share our knowledge, offer feedback, and keep each other motivated and informed about the latest trends and developments. As a designer, I find solace and belonging in this community, knowing I’m not alone in my journey. I cherish the opportunity to contribute to this collective tapestry of creativity and understanding, using design as a universal language to connect with others on a deeper level beyond words. It’s comforting to know that, through design, we can create bridges of empathy and belonging in our ever-evolving world.
What are you working on right now?
Currently, I’ve been finding a delicate balance between my work commitments and dedicating more time to personal projects and creative exploration. I also like to revisit and enhance past personal projects, such as “Boarding,” which has already seen significant progress since its inception in 2022.
I’ve been immersed in the realm of digital product design, captivated by the interplay of design and user experience—how seamlessly design aligns with user needs and behaviors. Alongside these pursuits, I’ve been finding comfort in journaling, capturing fleeting thoughts and ideas as they emerge.
Is there any advice that you would like to share with others?
My advice to fellow designers is simple: keep engaging and creating. It’s a mantra I often repeat to myself. Understand that not every visual will resonate with everyone, and there will be moments of misunderstanding and challenge where your creations may not feel quite right. Yet, these experiences are essential. Stay connected, stay curious, and above all, embrace the journey of learning.
text & photo courtesy of YoonJi Yang
- Website: https://yoonjiyang.com
