Jill Kishfy Empowering Design Innovation and Inclusion at Soft Start Studios

With a dynamic career spanning over a decade, Jill Kishfy has not only carved a niche for herself as a multidisciplinary designer but has also emerged as a tireless advocate for under-represented groups in the design industry. Her journey, filled with innovation, mentorship, and a commitment to social impact, has made her a revered figure in the design community. Jill Kishfy, the visionary founder of Soft Start Studios, and driving force in the design industry specializes in Retail, Web3, Wearable-tech, AR/VR, and ED-tech spaces. Jill brings her expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to create impactful design solutions for her clients.    

Embracing Multidisciplinary Design   

Jill's journey as a multidisciplinary designer began in Boston, where her passion for Industrial Design took root. Fresh out of college, she worked with various footwear and consumer goods companies, gaining invaluable experience in all aspects of the design process. From unpacking samples and sourcing materials to sketching and creating technical packs, Jill gained valuable hands-on experience. Her dedication and willingness to learn took her on frequent trips overseas, collaborating with factories for product development.   

Throughout her career, Jill's path led her to diverse settings, from start-ups to mid-sized and large corporate companies. This exposure gave her a comprehensive understanding of the industry, honing her ability to prioritize and implement effective strategies. Furthermore, her experiences provided invaluable insights from a business standpoint, equipping her with the knowledge necessary for scaling endeavors appropriately.   

After spending seven fruitful years in the footwear industry, Jill felt a calling to broaden her skill set and explore new realms of design. With a deep interest in UX/UI, she dedicated herself to acquiring these complementary skills. This dedication paid off, as Jill began securing a few gigs in the UX/UI sector while still serving consumer goods and footwear clients. The desire to work directly with clients and curate a diverse portfolio brimming with exciting projects fueled her decision to establish Soft Start Studios.   

Designing for Impact   

Under Jill's visionary leadership, Soft Start Studios has blossomed into a creative agency renowned for its comprehensive design services. With a focus on both the digital and physical realms, Soft Start Studios seamlessly merges creativity, strategy, and innovation to create products that leave a lasting impact.   

In the digital space, Soft Start Studios excels in providing a range of services. Product strategy lies at the heart of their approach, ensuring that every design decision aligns with the client's overarching goals and objectives. The agency's expertise in UX/UI design guarantees intuitive and user-centric experiences that captivate audiences. Through carefully crafted interactions, thorough research, and captivating animations, Soft Start Studios brings digital experiences to life, adding a touch of visual enchantment to every project.   

While the digital domain is undoubtedly crucial, Soft Start Studios recognizes the enduring significance of the physical world. With a strong foundation in consumer goods and footwear, the agency leverages its expertise to offer design and development services that bring tangible products to fruition. From concept ideation to prototyping and manufacturing, Soft Start Studios navigates the complexities of the physical design landscape with finesse and precision.   

At Soft Start Studios, the driving force behind every design endeavor is the desire to make a lasting impact. Jill understands that design is not merely about aesthetics; it's about crafting experiences that resonate with users, spark emotions, and solve real-world problems. By bridging the digital and physical realms, Soft Start Studios creates products that seamlessly integrate into people's lives, leaving a positive and transformative imprint.   

Advocacy and Mentorship   

Jill's commitment to advocating for women in UX/UI, Footwear, Industrial Design, and Product Development is truly commendable. Recognizing the lack of representation among minority groups in technical design roles, Jill actively engages in mentorship and speaking engagements to empower aspiring designers. She dedicates her time mentoring students from institutions such as WIT and RISD. Her speaking engagements and features include SneakersbyWomen, Women in Industrial Design and the Imprint Collective. She actively participates in mentorship programs like Women in Sports Tech and REI x FAAS. By sharing her knowledge and experiences, Jill strives to pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive design industry.   

With an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth, Jill shares valuable insights that have shaped her own journey and can inspire the next generation of designers. "Never be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship throughout your career," Jill advises. With her unwavering determination, Jill is transforming the way we perceive design and shaping a more inclusive and vibrant future for aspiring designers from all backgrounds.