COVID-19 has affected everyone around the globe in many different ways, and we are all dealing with complex issues that we have never faced before. Given the exponential use of technology in everyday operations along with COVID-19, accessibility and inclusive design are crucial to businesses across sectors. As a UX Researcher and first-degree black belt in Wing-Tsun, I’ve uncovered numerous parallels between the underlying principles in UX and accessibility, and martial arts. Interweaving this analogy throughout the talk, I will share foundational concepts in accessibility and approaches for integrating these practices into UX. This talk aims to encourage different attendees, regardless of their role as UX Designers, UX Researchers, Developers or even Product Managers, to re-frame their approach to change the narrative around inclusive design in their organizations and work processes. Accordingly, the major themes in the talk, including adaptability and resilience, will be presented in a manner to increase the applicability of the content to a diverse audience, specifically tailored towards UX.

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“Just roll with the punches. You are going to get hit — you will fall down. You have to get up, adapt and just keep moving” This is one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through practicing martial arts through the past couple of years. I wanted to share my story where I can integrate the lessons I’ve learned as an Engineer, UX Research Lead and Martial Artist and integrate these with the foundations of UX and Accessibility.