Hey Felix, care to share a little bit about yourself?
I'm Felix, Design Lead at Gotrade (YC S19) and Co-Founder at ADPList. I'm a believer in constantly reinventing the way we experience the world around us through design. I'm radically curious so I enjoy conversations with strangers on internet and also, enjoy breathing fresh air in nature.
Can you tell us what you do at Gotrade and ADPList for those who are unfamiliar?
At Gotrade, my role is to lead the design, product and brand direction - we're enabling people to trade US stocks starting from $1.
At ADPList, I lead the community team to organise design events and grow our reach globally - we are on a mission to create a world where we all can grow creatively together.
How did you decide to pursue your specific career? What pivotal moments pushed you to where you are now?
Growing up, I've always been a curious and experimental kid by nature. Every month, I'd be trying out new things and just creating new stuffs. I watch shows so I'll try to replicate those amazing inventions in real life. This was also what got me enrolled into an Engineering school, yes - my background is in electrical and mechanical engineering. During my time in school, I realised that my passion has always been in creation through problem-solving. That was when I discovered design - it was the first step to be done before engineering could come in, this was when I decided to dive into the world of design. As I always say, "Design is only a means to an end (solving a problem) and I only happen to be in design, I'm grateful." There are many pivotal moments in my still early career now, the best moments are formed by people who believed in me. This has also been the main driver for ADPList because now, more and more designers are supported by mentors globally.
What made you interested in your field?
I have always deeply believe in the power of creativity. Design is breath-taking to me for meaningful reasons. First, I'm solving problems through creation and creativity, this is very exciting for me - it keeps me up awake. Next, design helps me understand people better; I love it when I serve people - it's a mantra my dad taught me. Finally, design helps me express myself through the products/services that I get to create. For me, as a designer and entrepreneur, the common theme has always been to solve problems by creating products/companies with lasting positive impact on the world.
Any advice on how to stand out and get hired for those starting off?
Have humility, we are learning everyday and so no one is ever too senior; everyone will have a lesson to share with us so stay humble. Work hard because you will need to hustle your way into a job but the preparation and consistent learning will get you there. Lastly, have passion - find it because you need it.
3 Character traits that would make someone excel in your field
Hard work. Curiosity. Humility.
Most difficult thing about your job?
Sleeping, since I'm always excited to be awake.
What would you like to say to your younger self?
Just go be creative, life is only what you make of it.
Best advice you've received/heard?
Stay hungry, stay foolish.
Any last thoughts, advice, or recommendations for someone who wants to learn about your craft?
Learn and share - we all learn faster by sharing the knowledge. Lastly, don't judge yourself too early, have the patience to see through things and have faith in yourself. That should come from within, not external.
