I’m a Senior Product Designer and Product Strategist with 8+ years of experience designing scalable, user-centered products that solve meaningful problems. My work blends systems thinking with empathy, helping teams move from idea to execution with clarity and purpose.
I’ve led design across platforms that serve thousands of users, advised on product strategy in high-stakes environments, and contributed to systems that support accessibility, localization, and trust. From public platforms to early-stage ventures, I’ve designed solutions that grow with users — and with the business.
I bring a strong point of view backed by research, data, and cross-functional collaboration. I care about design that lasts, and teams that work with intention.
I’m currently focused on roles where I can contribute to large-scale product ecosystems, lead through influence, and help shape design cultures that are inclusive, curious, and thoughtful.
joelson leal's portrait photo

Experience

Kriolish Inc.
Senior UX Designer
Boston, USA (Remote)
Jan 2022 — Present
hello.cv
VP of Product Operations
Austin Texas, USA (Remote)
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024
Cabo Verde Digital
Design and Innovation Manager
Praia, Cabo Verde
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024
Ministry of Culture and Creative Industries
Advisor for Branding and Marketing
Praia, Cabo Verde
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024
Bonako Lda.
Lead Designer
Praia, Cabo Verde
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024
University of Cabo Verde
Front-end developer and Graphic Designer
Praia, Cabo Verde
2013 — 2015
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Education

Goldsmiths, University of London
MSc UX Engineering
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024
Arizona State University
Certificate in Public Management
2022
University of Cabo Verde
BSc Communication and Multimedia Design
Jan 2024 — Nov 2024

Coaching

Looking for 1:1 mentoring for your early design career? Let’s just chat and get to meet each other and talk about design
Book  your session here

Skills

Eye Tracking
Usability Testing
User Interface Design
Surveys
CSS
HTML
Graphic Design
Interaction Design
Focus Group
Qualitative Research
Quantitative Research
Information Architecture
Wireframing
User Research
Prototyping

Tools