
StillMind
Many meditation apps are audio-driven, unintentionally excluding d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) users. StillMind fills that gap with visual, haptic, and customizable audio features that offer a calm, supportive experience for those who aren't able to rely on sound.
2025
RECOGNITION
RGD Student Award for UX Design,
Honourable Mention

A procedural audio visualizer allows users to visually experience sound, transforming music into dynamic, flowing patterns that move in sync with the audio. This creates a completely new way to engage with sound, offering a multisensory experience that adds depth and interaction to the user experience.
Closing Thoughts
In closing, I want speak towards approaching this project as a
hearing individual. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to test the app
with anyone in the d/Deaf community, which would have been crucial
to ensuring that the app truly meets their needs. Proceeding
further, I would hope to seek collaboration and feedback from the
community to ensure the app is accessible and meaningful to its
intended audience.
As part of my research, I explored Jessica A. Holmes’ studies and
wanted to share her perspective on navigating research as an
outsider. Holmes, a hearing, able-bodied musicologist, acknowledges
the challenges of studying Deaf culture. She does not position
herself as an “ally” but instead as someone who seeks to learn and
understand. Her approach emphasizes the importance of engaging
deeply with Deaf Studies literature, prioritizing listening and
learning over imposing external views, and recognizing the
historical stigmatization of deafness. Holmes stresses the need to
challenge misconceptions rather than reinforce them.
Inspired by her approach, I would aim to continue learning from the
d/Deaf community, actively sharing my work for feedback, and
fostering collaboration based on trust and mutual respect, ensuring
my work remains authentic, accurate, and truly supportive of the
people I aim to serve.