We had the good fortune of connecting with Vaishnavi ( Vaish ) Prabhakaran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vaishnavi ( Vaish ), can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
One of the most valuable lessons my career has taught me is the importance of remaining open-minded to opportunities, even if they may not initially seem like the perfect fit. I’ve come to realize that inspiration and valuable experiences can emerge from unexpected places, and by embracing this mindset, I’ve been able to cultivate a richer understanding of myself and my passions.

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned that genuine listening and empathy are powerful tools for growth. By actively listening to others and seeking to understand their perspectives, I’ve gained valuable insights that have enriched my work as a designer and researcher. My own life experiences, including moments of adversity such as injuries, have deeply influenced my interests and passions, shaping the trajectory of my career in unexpected ways.

While I may have once been closed off to certain advice or perspectives, I now recognize the immense value in remaining receptive to diverse viewpoints. This openness has not only broadened my horizons but has also enhanced my ability to connect with others on a deeper level. As a result, I approach my work with a renewed sense of curiosity and humility, eager to learn from every encounter and incorporate new perspectives into my practice.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up in Bangalore, India, I was surrounded by friends, and my parents encouraged me to explore various hobbies, including Taekwondo (achieving a red belt), Abacus, classical music, art classes, and basketball, all while preparing for a career in medicine. However, I often found it challenging to maintain interest in these activities for the long term, frequently questioning myself about why I couldn’t sustain my commitment and eventually giving up.

In 10th grade, we underwent an in-depth aptitude test at school, evaluating our skills in logistics, logic, spatial awareness, and aligning them with our interests. Despite my early passion for medicine, instilled by my father’s belief in kindness and helping others, the results of the aptitude test pointed me towards architecture or design due to my visual learning style. This revelation led me to explore design classes, where I quickly fell in love with the field, realizing its blend of problem-solving, logic, interpersonal skills and helping other people through design.

After years of preparation for a medical career, I made the pivotal decision to switch to product design. This transition was facilitated by my diverse range of experiences and the realization that my varied interests and skills, despite being perceived as fleeting, actually contributed to my ability to learn and adapt quickly.

During my undergraduate years, I faced a significant setback when I suffered a severe ACL injury while playing basketball for my college team. The injury required surgery and extensive rehabilitation, which proved to be a traumatic experience. As I navigated through my recovery, relying on crutches and the support of friends for even basic tasks, I became acutely aware of the shortcomings in the healthcare industry. The experience highlighted the need for more thoughtful and patient-centered design solutions, sparking my interest in healthcare and wellness design for my master’s degree at the ArtCenter College of Design.

My journey from exploring various hobbies to specializing in healthcare design has been marked by challenges and moments of self-discovery. While it hasn’t always been easy, overcoming obstacles such as injuries and doubts has only strengthened my resolve and deepened my passion for creating meaningful design solutions that improve people’s lives.

My story highlights the importance of embracing change, staying resilient in the face of challenges, and following one’s passion, even if it means deviating from the expected path. My brand and story are rooted in the belief that design has the power to positively impact individuals and society. Through my experiences, I am committed to leveraging my skills and insights to make a difference in the healthcare, medical, and wellness.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 0: Welcome and Relaxation Before diving into our week-long adventure, take it easy and savor the moment. We’ll start by whipping up some delicious homemade meals together, maybe experimenting with a new recipe or two while we catch up and share stories in the kitchen. Afterward, let’s immerse ourselves in the tranquility of Huntington Gardens, wandering through lush greenery and enjoying the beauty of nature. As the day winds down, a leisurely stroll through the ArtCenter campus offers stunning views of Pasadena City. And to cap it off, why not indulge in some irresistible ice cream? Whether we opt for Salt & Straw’s artisanal flavors or venture to Kinrose Creamery for their Iranian-inspired treats, our sweet excursion promises the perfect ending to a relaxing day.

Day 1: Exploring Pasadena
Let’s kick off our Pasadena adventure with a dose of charm in Old Town. We’ll start the day with a delightful breakfast at Amara, fueling up for the adventures ahead. Then, it’s time to get lost in the stacks at Vroman’s Bookstore, soaking in the cozy atmosphere and browsing through captivating reads. Of course, no visit to Pasadena is complete without a stop at Urth Caffe for my favorite Spanish Latte Granita! For dinner, go to the neon-lit arcade for nostalgic fun and enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen at Tatsunoya. To top it all off, a scenic drive up to Angeles Crest awaits us for a breathtaking sunset and city lights.

Day 2: Theme Park Thrills
Get ready for a day of excitement and adrenaline! We’ll spend the day at one of LA’s iconic theme parks. Whether it’s Universal Studios, Disneyland, or Six Flags, we’re in for a day filled with thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and adrenaline!

Day 3: Downtown LA Delights
Today, we’ll venture into the heart of downtown LA. First, we’ll hit the Last Bookstore, browsing its collections to explore its amazing space and vibe. Then, we’ll stroll along the Walk of Fame, soaking in Hollywood’s bustling energy. And maybe end the day bar hopping like Clifton’s Republic, Beelman’s, and many more to make it a fun night out!

Day 4: Beach Bliss in Malibu
Let’s pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Malibu. We’ll enjoy the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the salty breeze on our faces. As the sun sets, we’ll go to Santa Monica for a few drinks and toasting the memories we’ve made.

Throughout the week, I’ll sprinkle in plenty of personal touches and hidden gems tailored to your interests and preferences. Here’s to a week filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable experiences!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I owe a debt of gratitude to my family – my mom, dad, sister, and extended family. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and love have been the bedrock of my journey, giving me the strength to pursue my dreams despite challenges and setbacks. Their belief in me, even when I doubted myself, has been a constant source of inspiration.

I also want to acknowledge my classmates and friends at ArtCenter. Their camaraderie, understanding, and words of motivation have been invaluable when I felt drained or overwhelmed. Their presence has reminded me that I am not alone on this journey and that we are all together, cheering each other on toward success.

Additionally, I am deeply grateful to my Coordinator and the faculty and staff at ArtCenter. Their guidance, mentorship, and belief in my abilities have played a crucial role in helping me build my confidence and navigate the challenges of pursuing my passion. Their support has been instrumental in shaping me into the artist and designer I am today.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who have contributed to my journey, whether through support, mentorship, love, or encouragement. Each of you has contributed to my success, and I am truly grateful for your presence in my life.

Website: https://www.vaish.design

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vaish_prabhakaran/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaishnavi-prabhakaran/

Image Credits
1. Photo Credit to Eric NG for my Photograph, then edited with AI

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