Microsoft

Executive Creative Director

// Digital Design, UI/UX Design, Art, Brand, Social, Storytelling,

microsoft

// Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

2020—2022

Responsibilities

As Executive Creative Director at Designit, I led a transformative project for Microsoft aimed at creating a unique platform for learning and engagement on diversity and inclusion. Unlike Microsoft’s corporate DEI initiatives, this platform was designed to foster open dialogue and shared learning on the broader topics of diversity and inclusion in both workplace and societal contexts. Our team crafted an interactive, user-centric experience that could engage audiences in meaningful ways, empowering individuals to explore DEI concepts and connect through shared insights and stories. This project was a milestone in demonstrating the potential of digital experiences to drive awareness, empathy, and meaningful change.

context

Microsoft recognizes that genuine progress requires acknowledging past and present realities while fostering a culture of shared accountability for the future. As individuals, organizations, and a society, we are all continuously evolving, and Microsoft embraces this imperfection as a catalyst for action. This commitment encourages both personal and collective growth, with a focus on active engagement, transparency, and meaningful steps forward.

Building Buy-In and Creating a Platform for Lasting Change

create an authentic, engaging platform that went beyond typical corporate messaging to inspire meaningful action on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Microsoft wanted a site that would serve as a learning and engagement tool for employees and the broader community—a place to explore, discuss, and understand the complexities of DEI.

To meet this goal, the website needed to strike a balance between acknowledging the ongoing societal challenges related to DEI and showcasing Microsoft's commitment to progress. It required a storytelling approach that would resonate with diverse audiences, foster accountability, and invite all users to actively participate in the journey toward a more inclusive workplace and society. The platform had to facilitate continuous engagement and self-reflection, encouraging users to "do the work" of DEI while navigating complex topics with empathy and transparency.

Solution

In the first phase of this project, we crafted a compelling proof-of-concept that enabled Microsoft’s DEI team to gain critical buy-in and secure funding from internal leadership. Our approach centered around the concept, “Work in Progress,” which we brought to life through a well-rounded pitch that blended strategic thinking, impactful storytelling, and a fresh visual language tailored for Microsoft. This narrative and design language aimed to reflect the ongoing, evolving nature of DEI work and the shared responsibility it entails.

In the next phase, our focus shifted to building the platform itself and creating original, meaningful content to engage and inspire users.

"Work in Progress" manifesto

We can't just do more.

We can't just do better.

We must do the work.

We intend to dismantle established systems and build something different.

Progress on this scale takes more than an initiative.