This recognition shines a spotlight on early to mid-career professionals who are making a real impact in their industries, demonstrating ingenuity and leadership. Julia’s work at intO is a perfect example of these qualities. Her achievements in shaping user-centred research, leading groundbreaking projects, and driving global insights make her more than deserving of this accolade.
1. Leadership in Global Research Projects Since joining intO as an intern in 2019, Julia’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now a Research Strategist, she plays a key role in managing and delivering culturally informed research for pioneering multinationals such as Google, Pinterest, and Propelland.
Her expertise in conducting in-depth interviews, ethnographic research, and trend analysis spans across multiple regions, from South Africa to Spain, ensuring that every project delivers meaningful, actionable insights. One recent example of her leadership was a global study involving 14-18 year-olds across seven diverse countries, where Julia’s innovative approach to digital research ensured high participant engagement and top-quality data.
2. Innovating with AI and Ethical Research Julia is also a driving force behind intO’s Equitable AI Framework, a groundbreaking initiative that integrates AI technologies with ethical research practices. Her work in this space ensures that AI advancements are inclusive, addressing biases and ensuring fairness in user experiences across diverse populations. This initiative highlights Julia’s forward-thinking approach and her commitment to using technology to promote inclusivity and justice in research.
3. Dedication to the Innovation Community Outside of her work at intO, Julia is an active participant in the broader innovation community, particularly in the femtech and sextech sectors. She has collaborated with designers on projects aimed at addressing female intimate health, and she co-leads workshops on issues like hormonal health and wellness rights. Julia’s influence extends beyond her core role, as she continually strives to push boundaries and make a difference in emerging sectors.
Julia’s nomination as a finalist in the WIN Awards is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and ability to inspire change. Her contributions are not only shaping the future of user-centred research but also influencing key discussions around the ethical use of AI, health, and wellness. Julia’s remarkable journey from intern to Research Strategist, coupled with her genuine passion for innovation, truly sets her apart as a rising star in our industry.
We are incredibly proud of Julia and her achievements, and we’re excited to watch her continue to grow and lead within intO and the global research community.
The winner of the Rising Star Award will be announced in New York at the end of October, and we’re confident that Julia’s contributions will continue to make waves in the industry.
👏 Join us in celebrating Julia’s success! You can connect with her on LinkedIn to follow her journey and learn more about her work:
Connect with Julia on LinkedIn
intO is thrilled to be co-organising the AIBA Conference 2024 in Katowice (+ online), uniting global and local leaders, AI innovators, and experts to explore transformative AI solutions. Building on last year's success, this expanded two-day event promises deeper insights, powerful networking, and actionable strategies. Read on to discover our themes, speakers, and how you can be part of this groundbreaking event.
Laetitia Sfez, Research Director at intO, shares lessons from a multi-region authentication project, revealing the challenges of designing UX solutions for diverse cultural and technological landscapes, such as Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia, and emphasising the importance of balancing business goals with cultural nuances for effective, global UX.
