I like to see myself as a designer making technology more creative and playful.

In a world increasingly defined by isolation, social stratification, and misinformation, I think it’s important we use our brain’s well-established ability to connect and feel, well, human. Thus I care about designing technology that is more than easy or convenient; but allows our brains, bodies, and relationships to flourish.

Prior to becoming a designer, I studied cognitive science at McGill University. In this degree I learned scientific, historical, and anthropological approaches to understanding the mind. I wrote my honors graduate paper on how information online might contribute to feelings of trust and credibility towards others.

Prompted by the desire to make science more playful, I took a staff writing position at the McGill Office for Science and Society. By telling stories and designing data visualizations, I attempted to inspire deep engagement from readers who would otherwise feel alienated by STEM.

Bridging my self-taught experience in graphic design with my degree in cognitive science, I started designing conversational AI. By studying the way people communicate, both verbally and non-verbally, I’ve aspired to create technology which doesn’t ask users to conform their creative and chaotic ways of expressing themselves into easy-to-compute boxes.

In October 2020 I co-founded a start-up to use technology to facilitate playful social moments online. Our solution – Nomie – is a web-tool which fosters meaningful and trust-based relationships in school and professional environments.

My interests have led me to consider technology as an artistic medium and I have started to explore art as research creation through VR. Collaborating with other artists and technologists I hope to bring to life ideas like Living Rocks – a speculative AR experience which lets users breathe virtual life into their favourite rock, and play with it using their hands.

In my spare time I enjoy hosting events, dancing, or going hiking. I love facilitating creative and playful experiences because I believe play and creativity are among the best avenues to explore introspection, vulnerability, and other incredibly meaningful ways of being.

I’m always happy to get in touch and chat about ideas that inspire you. Send me an email at cassandra.lee2@mail.mcgill.ca and let’s talk.