Soumya Buttan
Soumya Buttan is a multidisciplinary creative professional specializing in service design, communication design, and storytelling. Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Service Design at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in the United States, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design from Kingston University, London, completed through the Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD). Soumya’s work bridges design and writing, combining human-centered research, user experience strategy, and creative content development to craft meaningful experiences that resonate with audiences globally.
As a writer, Soumya is a global co-author of The Tryst of Love, You Matter, and Her, a contributor to celebrity magazines, and a podcast speaker. She has served as President of The Editorial Club at IIAD, mentoring students and promoting creative expression. In her design work, she has led projects with Deloitte x SCADpro, redesigned user experiences for non-profit organizations, and facilitated research-driven, human-centered solutions that align with organizational goals. Soumya also serves as a graduate mentor at SCAD, guiding the next generation of creative professionals.
Driven by a passion for improving people’s lives through design and storytelling, Soumya attributes her success to the moments when her work positively impacts others. She emphasizes self-trust, resilience, and the value of experiential learning, including solo travel, as keys to personal and professional growth. Through her creative endeavors and humanitarian work, she continues to inspire and empower communities, blending design, writing, and soulful living into a career dedicated to connection, expression, and meaningful impact.
• Global Co-Author
• Celebrity Magazine Writer
• Podcast Speaker
• Savannah College of Art and Design – Master of Arts (MA), Service Design
• Kingston University – Bachelor of Arts (BA), Communication Design
• Indian Institute of Art and Design – Bachelor of Arts (BA), Communication Design
• International Design Award
• 35% SCAD Scholarship
• President of The Editorial Club, IIAD
• Worked with NGOs in India, including teaching and mentoring students, collaborating on humanitarian initiatives, and contributing to community design projects.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the moments when my work—whether design or writing—touches people’s lives. Seeing someone smile, feel understood, or inspired by my words and designs gives me a deep sense of purpose. That human connection drives me to keep creating and improving.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Trust yourself above all. Your instincts are your most reliable guide, and committing fully to what you believe in will always bring meaningful outcomes.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Trust your instincts, follow your passion, and invest in personal growth. Solo travel and self-reliance are powerful tools to build confidence and resilience. Focus on living your life authentically, exploring opportunities, and developing your own creative voice.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Creative fields, like design and writing, often have periods of stagnation. The challenge is to remain inspired and proactive even during those times, using them as opportunities to reflect, research, and innovate.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Kindness, self-trust, resilience, and soulful living guide both my personal and professional life. I prioritize helping others, contributing positively through my work, and maintaining balance between social engagement and introspection.