"I'm into Caucasian dances, recording podcasts, and developing an app," says a product designer at tekmates about their lifestyle.

Vladislav Kurguzov, city — Almaty, product designer at tekmates, @ezzzz12345

About me

I am a product designer with three years of experience. Currently, I work at tekmates, where I research and design user interfaces. When asked what a product designer does, I explain it using the analogy of an architect.

Everything you use on the internet—from websites to mobile apps—is designed by designers, primarily product designers. Before becoming an interface designer, I worked for three years in the railway industry: first on the tracks, and then I advanced to the position of station dispatcher. At the same time, I studied using free online resources, and within six months of daily practice, I landed a job at Kazakhstan’s Alfa-Bank.

I usually wake up early and start working at 09:30. At this time, I try to organize my tasks for the day and figure out what needs to be prioritized and completed first. Calls and meetings take up two to four hours a day, and direct work on tasks takes about the same amount of time.

I set aside some time to study new practices in the design community so I can implement them at my company. In my free time, I record podcasts about design, dance lezginka, and run my pet project.

Where and how I learn

I learn every day. Our field is developing rapidly, and new practices are emerging in the market. To clearly understand what is trending, you need to stay constantly updated.

I usually learn through free videos and articles. I am convinced that if you have well-developed internet surfing skills, you can find absolutely anything. As for people I follow regularly, Viktor Teplov is one of them—his videos and articles are truly inspiring.

I do not attend masterclasses, trainings, or similar events: what I study on my own is sufficient for me. I fulfill the need for professional networking within the community or at personal meetings with other designers.

My circle

In my professional life, my circle consists of colleagues and management. We work as a team, with each person contributing to the common goal. I value determination, character, and a sense of humor in my colleagues and other people.

Besides IT professionals, I have many friends who are athletes and professional dancers of Caucasian dances.

I also actively develop my networking skills—one of the most powerful tools for growth in our field. I recommend attending great design meetups organized by tekmates and annual Design Science conferences. In general, actively participate in the community, communicate in groups and chats. Any contribution to the design industry in your country will open new doors along the way.

How and where I spend my free time

I practice Caucasian dances, which helps me maintain good posture and overall health. I love nature and mountains. Whenever possible, I gladly go there.

I also have a pet project—an app for learning the Chechen language. I had been nurturing the idea for a long time, and my team and I have come a long way to bring it to life. Additionally, I study the history of the Chechen people and create videos about it on TikTok.

Where to buy what

I like Apple gadgets because of their ecosystem. It’s easy to switch between my laptop and phone during work and quickly sync everything with my headphones. A single account and Cloud for everything—I definitely recommend it.