Her Story
About Anjali
Anjali Kumar is currently pursuing a master's degree in human-computer interaction at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, where she is focusing on upskilling and participating in research studies to advance insights into human-technology interactions. Prior to this, she completed a four-year degree in fashion communication at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in India. She then gained four years of professional experience as a product designer, spending two years each at a mobility startup focused on India's public transport sector and a fintech startup. In her role at the mobility startup Chalo Mobility, she worked directly with drivers, commuters, and passengers of all ages to shape accessible technology that supports daily travel needs. Anjali describes herself as a generalist with a do-it-all energy, having consciously chosen startup environments over large corporate roles to build well-rounded expertise.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Anjali
01What do you attribute your success to?
The support from mentors and close bonds made in startups who stood by through good and poor performances, helping growth as a generalist. Fortunate with mentors over the years.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A Hindi phrase meaning you've come this far, you'll do something next as well. Reminds that we are capable based on past evidence and will survive challenges.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Technology and IT sector was male-dominated but changing fast. You don't need the whole room to agree, just one or two reliable people for advice when feeling lost.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenge is AI anxiety about design work being automated, but focus on judgment, taste, and human elements rather than tools. Opportunity is making human-AI interactions more intuitive and inclusive, ensuring AI products are easy to use without hallucinating.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being kind to people and giving space to people. Everyone has capabilities that can be extracted. People and their energies are big value drivers.
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