RenataDima

– Lead Product Designer at Ding

“Embrace the journey, design the destination :)” 

  • Mentoring at UX Tree since September 2024
  • Based in Cork, Ireland
Renata Dima

About

“I actually got into mentoring around 3 years ago after having a very positive experience as a mentee myself. I was so impacted by the guidance and support my own mentor provided that I knew I wanted to pay it forward and play a similar role for others. Since then, it’s been incredibly rewarding to work with over 70 students as their mentor on platforms like ADPList.

I love being able to share my diverse professional background and expertise to help empower the next generation. It’s not just about imparting technical skills, but really cultivating the whole person – building their confidence, resilience, and sense of purpose. That’s what I find most compelling about this role, and why I’m so passionate about continuing to mentor and support aspiring professionals.”

Top Skills

  • Usability Testing
  • Wireframing & Prototyping
  • Listening & Communication

Favourite Topics

  • Design Thinking
  • Accessibility & Inclusivity
  • UX & Interaction design

Mentoring Skills

  • CV & Portfolio review
  • Constructive feedback
  • Deep design domain knowledge

Working experience

DMX Systems | Design Consultant

Provided expert consultation on user experience design principles, conducting comprehensive user research, creating wireframes and prototypes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize digital product usability and enhance overall user satisfaction.

April 2024 -Present

Ding | Lead Product Designer

I'm currently working across product teams at DING, where I design and maintain their web/mobile platforms as well as take part in the company's strategy.

Sep 2023 -March 2024

My Portfolio

My LinkedIn

Why UX?

“My path to the world of UX design was a bit unconventional. I actually started out studying Industrial Design in college, but as I progressed, I became increasingly drawn to the digital realm and the unique challenges of interaction design. At one point, I even considered pursuing full-stack web development, but then I discovered the field of UX, and it felt like the perfect intersection of my design background and growing interest in technology. So I went back to school and earned a BA in Interaction Design, which provided the foundational knowledge I needed to transition into UX.

Throughout this journey, I was fortunate to have incredible mentors who helped guide me along the way – from professors who exposed me to the latest UX research and methodologies, to senior designers who showed me the ropes in my first UX role.

What advice do you have for future mentees and UX designers?

“For aspiring UX designers/mentees, I’d recommend embracing a mindset of continuous learning and staying curious about the evolving field. Build a strong foundation in human-centred design principles like empathy, research, and iterative testing.

Develop a diverse portfolio showcasing your process, and actively network within the UX community to find mentorship opportunities. Don’t forget to reach out to your community and colleagues when you’re struggling with something. Don’t struggle in silence!”