Unlimited Capacity for Re-Invention
An interview with Experience Designer, Ivan Nunez
Tell us about a time that changed the way you view the world, yourself, or your expectations.
My most formative experience was moving (37 years ago) from my native country, Venezuela, to the United States. Mastering a new language, navigating a different culture, becoming more self-aware: these are all invaluable experiences that have helped me through key turning points in my life.
The most significant lesson I’ve learned as an immigrant to America is the understanding that our lives are not fixed. We have unlimited capacity to re-invent ourselves. This world-view has helped me to adapt to various personal and professional circumstances and has giving me the perspective that nothing is impossible.
Have you ever felt like an outsider? How has that experience helped you to feel more included or inclusive of others?
Absolutely! Being a young gay Latino in college, in a foreign country, away from friends and family, at a time when Minneapolis/St. Paul was not as diverse of a city as it is today was not easy. What carried me through was the welcoming smiles of some fellow students and the honest questions they would ask, wanting to learn more about me.
More importantly, there were those that clearly accepted me without judgement, simply enjoying our times together and our friendship. My take away: a warm hello and a smile is the first step to help others feel included and welcome, hopefully igniting enduring friendships.
What are you passionate about?
My undergraduate and graduate training was in Fine Arts and Design. I value creativity and self-expression. I love dreaming of possibilities. I think this translates well to my career since it gives me a sense of curiosity. “What if?” “How may we?” and “Why not?” are questions I constantly ask of myself and others. More importantly, I have had opportunities to apply my passion to teaching, having taught college courses and conducted seminars at various points in my career.
In an effort to be more conscientious of others’ difference/preferences, what would be a goal you would set for yourself to make sure others feel included? Why would setting this specific goal be important to you?
I think there’s a bit of give-and-take needed to make others feel included. If we give of ourselves openly by letting some of our social guards down and show a bit of vulnerability, we invite others to do the same.
My goal for myself and others is to be at-ease with who we are. It is important not only for interpersonal relationships, but also for effective collaboration and work.
What can we do to build a more diverse and inclusive work environment?
Since I started working at Slalom I have been impressed by the diversity of people, but most importantly, by the celebration of professional, personal and cultural experiences. For example, as I write this at the office café, there’s a table tent with a brief explanation of Ramadan. Today, I received an office-wide email invitation to a Pride celebration. These gestures are sincere, genuine, and they make a huge difference in creating an open and inclusive work community.
Why did you decide to join Slalom?
This is easy for me to answer: the people. Two of my past colleagues, who I admire and respect immensely, had joined Slalom. When I was considering a career change we discussed the Slalom culture in detail; the creative, meaningful work and the many opportunities for professional and personal growth. They are very happy. I met very smart people during the interview process and that was all I needed to join.
Interested in working with Ivan? Contact recruit-minneapolis@slalom.com
