Hello, I’m María!

Hi, I’m María José — a designer, storyteller, and visual communicator based in Ottawa, originally from Santiago, Chile.

 For over a decade, I’ve worked at the intersection of design and purpose. Whether I’m building a brand identity for a community initiative, creating social campaigns for refugee advocacy, or developing visuals for digital learning, my focus is always the same: make things clear, human, and meaningful.

Right now, I’m working as a volunteer Graphic Designer for Somos Latinxs in Tech. Previously, I led communications and design for a fundraising campaign at Algonquin College’s Social Innovation Lab, where I collaborated with alumni, advancement teams, and student-led projects to craft content that builds connection and raises support. I also design branded templates, websites, and multimedia content — always with accessibility, emotion, and inclusivity at the center.

I’m especially drawn to projects that live beyond the screen — things that move people, inform communities, and help make systems more compassionate and just. Over the years, I’ve worked in Chile and Canada, across education, nonprofit, and social impact sectors, always adapting my visual language to amplify voices that matter.

When I’m not designing, I enjoy spending time with my two cats, Anita and Valentino, drawing or baking something delicious.

“Design is the silent ambassador of your brand.”

— Paul Rand