About Me
Hi, I’m Ciara Ali, a service designer, strategist, and creative problem-solver based in Philly and Miami. My journey started in social services and public health, working directly with communities to evaluate, improve, and reimagine federally funded programs. I saw firsthand how policies and systems shape people’s lives—often creating barriers instead of support—and I became committed to designing public services that are more accessible, dignified, and equitable.
Over the years, I’ve worked across government, nonprofit, civic tech, and international development, leading research, co-design, and capacity-building efforts. My approach is rooted in pluralism and interdependence—design is not about a single voice, method, or solution. Good design is collective, shared, and built with the people who rely on it.
Guiding values
Designing for Interdependence → I value the contributions of multiple designers, disciplines, and lived experiences. Design should not reward hierarchy, but instead strategize around systems that support mutual collaboration, shared power, and sustainable participation.
Embracing Wonder & Play → Curiosity, experimentation, and iteration are essential. Design is an ongoing process—one that requires flexibility, care, and imagination to move toward meaningful change.
Building Systems for Mutual Benefit → Design should be consensually applied, mutually given and received, and supportive of thriving—not just efficiency. A well-designed system should redistribute agency, not concentrate control.
At the end of the day, I care about how people experience public systems and services—and I’m committed to making them more just, participatory, and effective. Let’s build something better, together.