We had the good fortune of connecting with Gaby Castro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gaby, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m Gaby Castro, a product designer at AdventureGenie, where I focus on creating tools to make trip planning easier for RV and road-trip enthusiasts. My path to UX design began in Brazil, studying design but later transitioning to systems analysis and development to improve job prospects. While working as a back-end developer, I gained valuable technical experience but found myself missing the creative aspects of design.

When I moved to the US, I took a college course in interaction design and discovered a field that perfectly combined technology and creativity. That experience shifted my focus, and I started building a portfolio to transition into UX design.

Before my current role, I worked at Rivian, where I contributed to redesigning Drive Modes, a key feature that became a patented innovation. I’m also a member of the Advisory Board for Santa Monica College’s Interaction Design Program.

My background bridges UX and technical development, which has helped me approach design challenges from multiple perspectives. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interaction Design from Santa Monica College and continue to be inspired by opportunities to create user-centered solutions.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my unique blend of technical and creative skills, combined with a strong user-first mindset. Starting as a back-end developer in fintech gave me a solid technical foundation, but transitioning to UX design allowed me to channel my passion for creativity and problem-solving. I’m proud of how my journey—though challenging—has shaped me. From facing self-doubt as an international student to pivoting careers, every step has reinforced my resilience and determination.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Early on, I struggled with imposter syndrome and adapting to a new industry and country. I overcame these challenges by focusing on continuous learning, building a strong portfolio, and staying committed to creating user-centered designs. Winning awards like the Adobe Jams challenge and contributing to projects like Rivian’s Drive Modes were milestones that validated my hard work.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to embrace change and challenges—they’re opportunities for growth. I want the world to know that my story is one of persistence and passion. Whether it’s through my work at AdventureGenie or my efforts to advocate for diversity in design, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact. My brand is about blending creativity, empathy, and innovation to create designs that truly resonate with users.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, LA is an entire world!
I know there are locations of this chain in multiple states, but no one can leave LA without experiencing Din Tai Fung. I love Taiwanese food, but the whole vibe of this restaurant is something to be lived.
I love meeting new restaurants, but NOMA, in Santa Monica, is my favorite one!
For Drinks, North Italia. For drinks and games, House of Billiards in Sherman Oaks.
And to visit, my favorite spots are the Lacma Museum and the Getty Museum.
Now if you’re looking for some selfcare and a relaxing moment, I’d definitely recommend my friend’s skincare studio Aioca skin and body studio.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Everything I have ever done in my life has been due to my beloved mother, who is not with us anymore, but she continues to inspire and guide me. My drive is found in honoring her efforts to give me a brighter future.

Website: https://gabriela-castro.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriela-fcastro/

Image Credits
Mireya De La Torre

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