hi, it's martyna!
from the world of finance to a path of self-discovery in business, strategy, design, innovation, and sustainability, my professional trajectory has been an enthralling exploration of my true passions. my name is martyna kowalczyk, and i invite you to join me on this transformative path.
with a background in finance and several years of experience as a data analyst in a reinsurance company, i was immersed in the world of numbers, both quantitative and qualitative analysis. however, deep within me, there was always a yearning for artistic expression and a desire to create meaningful solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future.
even during my time in the finance industry, i found an outlet for my artistic expression through singing. as a member of an award-winning academic choir, i experienced the power of music to connect people and evoke emotions. musical experience further fueled my desire to explore creative avenues that could have a lasting impact on the world.
award-winning public performer
driven by this passion, i made the bold decision to pursue master's in innovation & design at mälardalen university in sweden. this transformative experience not only honed my skills in design thinking, user research, and human-centered design but also allowed me to delve into topics of sustainability and circular practices that align with my values.
during my leisure time, i find immense pleasure in engaging in a variety of hobbies that bring me both joy and relaxation. being born by the sea has instilled in me a profound connection to water, and i often seek solace in swimming, reminiscent of carefree childhood days spent rolling in the sand and frolicking in the waves. away from the shore, i derive great satisfaction from the soulful melodies of jazz music, the invigorating challenge of a punching-bag workout, and the sheer enjoyment of singing—whether it's belting out tunes at karaoke nights with friends or refining my skills on my own...
break for my gorgeous peach copper hair ;)
...and when i'm not immersed in the rhythmic tunes of jazz or testing my physical endurance, you'll often find me unwinding with a good stand-up comedy show, occasionally exploring the realm of lesser-known comedians for a hearty laugh. these hobbies not only offer moments of relaxation and entertainment but also fuel my creativity and passion for life.
throughout my academic exploration, i embarked on various research, design, and developmental projects that tackled real-life scenarios and involved industry collaborations. from exploring the intricate relationship between humans and energy systems in off-grid houses to blending innovation and environmental management in collaboration with organizations, i have applied my creativity and problem-solving abilities to make a positive impact.
international experience
in a global not-for-profit
with my analytical background and international experience, i bring a unique perspective to design and possess the ability to bridge the gap between the business and design worlds, which tidily is encapsulated by strategic design. my hands-on approach drove me to learn many tools on the job including adobe photoshop, indesign, illustrator, canva pro, miro, and figma. i'm determined to drive success. i love taking on challenges and i've learned a solution-oriented attitude in a global not-for-profit, which led me to doubling their operations and in the following year to run its department, as well as be in the top 3 in financial growth out of 15 branches nationally.
top 3 in financial growth
my diverse experiences have shaped me into a multifaceted professional with a strong foundation in design, innovation, and sustainability. i thrive in collaborative environments, leveraging my communication and leadership skills to foster meaningful connections and drive impactful change. as a strategic designer, i dive deep into the business, sourcing from innovation & design toolkit merging it with business practices while improving the whole experience. process, service, product... you name it.
thrive in collaborative environments
at the core of my work lies a deep belief in the power of design and innovation to create a sustainable future. i am dedicated to translating complex ideas into practical and actionable solutions that address societal and environmental challenges.
welcome to my portfolio, where you will discover the intersection of creativity, purpose, and sustainability. together, let's embark on a transformative path of design-driven solutions that bridge the communication gap and make a difference.