Xc design studio

Women’s History Month Interview Session

We have Precious, Portland State University Professor and Creative Director at Precious Bugarin Design LLC here.

• What empowers you as a woman working in the design industry?
The energy, actions and enthusiasm from the organizations I work with and students I teach helps to push me forward —to advocate for bipoc students and push for social change through supportive work with organizations on the ground.

• Do you see any change in this industry?
Change is happening slowly. More agencies are prioritizing hiring diverse folks but we need to be aware of tokenism.

• Why is it important for female leaders to have a voice in the community?
It’s more than important, it’s vital — the voices of all marginalized people are necessary for healthy communities.

• What does it mean to you to start a business as a female?
To me, starting a business means independence and survival. It has allowed me the privilege of working for and with who I choose and structuring my schedule around family. It has brought me so much joy but also late nights and stress. It’s a balance — I would have it no other way though! The freedom is exhilarating!

Women’s History Month Interview Session

We have Kate, Portland State University Professor and the Owner of Outlet PDX here.

What does it mean to you to start a business as a female?

I feel very fortunate to have had such good role models in my mom and my grandma who both were creative business owners. My mom started her own weaving business in 1977 and I grew up watching my mom and dad make a living from the things that they would make with their own hands. My grandma was an illustrator from the age of 19 until she lost her vision in her mid-70s. She illustrated hundreds and hundreds of children's books over her 55 year career and her studio was one of my favorite places when I was growing up. It was empowering to be raised by these women and their energy and attitude drive me everyday.

“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” - G.D. Anderson