Jaime De Vizcaya

Who are you and what do you do?

I am Jaime De Vizcaya, a Mexican-Finnish industrial designer, lecturer and activist for ecological and sustainable design. For the past six years, I have been running my own Eco Design Studio in Helsinki. I am lecturing locally and occasionally abroad and mentoring students from Aalto.

How did you end up studying your field?

The curse has been passed from generation to generation. We have had home interior decorators, jewelers and designers within my family. I love this field and I am passionate about my humanistic and creative career.

What is the best memory you have from your time studying?

I have different kinds of best memories from each stage of my studies. It is hard to say which one is the very best. Nevertheless, I could say that I especially remember those moments, which included creative and positive design development with my teammates.

What is the most valuable thing you learned at university, which has helped you in your professional life?

Putting theory into practice. I would say it is a great achievement when the theory you learnt at university can be put into practice. It makes you feel motivated and successful. You feel like you have not wasted your time. Secondly, I would say networking with academic and industrial partners or colleagues. Aalto is a great hub to connect with people who share the same interests and passions.

What made you to start mentoring? What has mentoring given to you?

For me, mentoring is an altruistic way to share knowledge and learn from each other. Motivating new generations has given me hope, positive energy and desire to do good for the design community.

Tell us something surprising about yourself?

Within this old body there is a great dancer! I love to dance especially at weddings and parties.

What should everyone do and experience at least once in a lifetime?

Everybody should live and work abroad at least for a year. It makes you understand this crazy world better.