Hi, I’m Mariana!

I’m a Community Builder, Design Researcher, and Educator who uses design to make this world a better place for everyone. In my practice, I integrate participatory methods to include people's voices in the design process. I also use design-led research, systems thinking, and visual design to understand complex issues and turn them into opportunities for intervention. I hold a degree in Innovation and Design Engineering from Universidad Panamericana in Guadalajara and an M.F.A. In Transdisciplinary Design from Parsons School of Design in New York. I have taught at Parsons School of Design, worked at Healthy Materials Lab and People Powered, and collaborated with DEED Lab.

Besides being a Possibilities Designer, I’m: 

A mental model analyst: oftentimes social problems are rooted in mental models and belief systems. In my practice, I’m constantly questioning and analyzing why we think what we think, and what are consequences of those mental models. By understanding which are problematic mental models and identifying what reinforces them, it is possible to challenge them, change structures, and create new possibilities.

An observer of the invisible in-training: we live surrounded by invisible structures as hierarchies or normalized behaviors and social norms, that can generate problems (inequalities, inequity) . In order to address those problems, we need to see the invisible, identify what is harmful that we have normalized. I incorporate observation techniques into my practice to understand what invisible structures are preventing people to have the possibilities to thrive.

A realistic optimist:  As a designer working in the social impact sector, it is important to achieve a balance between realism and optimism to thrive in this sector. I integrate a critical thinking mindset to have a realistic view of the world while maintaining an optimism to make this world a better place for everyone.  

Plastic Intolerant: I’m a sustainability enthusiast, I always look to adopt sustainable practices in my life and get involved in sustainability projects. I believe in the power of collective action, and that multiple sectors need to work together to address climate change