Portfolio
New Immigrants Facing Problems in Northern Ireland
Master’s Project:
Problem Statement: How might we create an inclusive, accessible, and informative support system that empowers newcomers to navigate life in Northern Ireland independently?
DesignerSadia Yamin
| Role | UX Designer & Researcher |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 months |
| Platform | Multi-channel digital service (web & mobile) |
| UX Research | Miro Link |
| UI Design | Figma Link |
| Materials | Miro, Figma, Notion, |
Project Overview
As part of my master’s dissertation, I independently led a UX design project focused on improving the settlement experience for new immigrants in Northern Ireland, including international students, skilled workers, refugees, and visitors. The aim was to deeply understand their challenges and design a user-centered digital solution to support their integration into the local community.
User Research and Insights
I conducted comprehensive qualitative research using semi-structured interviews, surveys, and empathy mapping through Miro to gather first-hand insights. The findings revealed that newcomers face significant barriers in accessing culturally familiar food, affordable housing, religious and community centres, and navigating essential local services. Key challenges included language barriers and limited digital literacy, which directly informed the design direction.
Design Strategy and Approach
Guided by research, I developed user personas and journey maps to validate the needs of diverse groups. Using Figma, I designed a responsive prototype for a digital platform that simplifies access to essential information and community resources. The interface prioritised intuitive navigation, multilingual support, and cultural sensitivity, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.
Usability Testing and Iteration
Following the creation of the initial prototype, I conducted usability testing with potential users and evaluators. Based on feedback, I refined the platform to include clearer visual cues, streamlined navigation for low-tech users, and improved multilingual integration. These iterations ensured the final design was highly usable and aligned with real-world user needs.
Impact & Reflexion
This project enhanced my ability to deliver an end-to-end UX process independently—from research and ideation to prototyping and testing. It highlighted the importance of designing inclusive digital solutions that respond to real human needs. The project was praised for its clarity, usability, and relevance in addressing cultural and practical barriers faced by newcomers.
