Ever wonder what it’s really like to go from being a hands-on UX designer to leading a team in Big Tech? Or maybe you’re experiencing that “fear of missing out” when you see others chasing the “dream” design job?

In this talk, Tsvetelina will share an honest look at her journey from an Individual Contributor to a Design Manager, highlighting both the positives and the tougher parts you don’t always hear about.

We’ll explore:

• The realities of climbing the UX career ladder and transitioning into management.

• How FOMO shapes our perceptions of success - and what’s the reality of being part of Big Tech

• Honest comparisons of the UX work in startups, agencies, and Big Tech, so you can figure out which path might fit you best.

Come away with practical guidance, honest reflections, and actionable strategies—minus the industry hype. Whether you’re weighing your next career move or simply curious about what it means to lead in the ever-evolving UX field, this session will help you gain clarity on how to forge your own path to success.

Social media can be a game-changer for breaking into UX or expanding your network. However, we know that having productive discussions about our work online can be challenging.

Today, everyone is expected to be a thought leader in the public space, and controversial opinions often attract the most attention. In this session, we’ll slice through some of the misconceptions about UX to better understand them and reduce the pressure they can put on us and our careers. 


It’s a serious topic but we promise we’ll keep it light and lively!