Birmingham, United Kingdom
Samuel Solarin
Technology Service Desk Analyst at The Works Ltd
Hey everyone! I have been working through the courses on here, and I have to admit… it’s been challenging. I’m excited about what I’m learning and the incredible depth of UX theory and principles, but there’s a big missing piece for me: practical application. It’s been tough to take these concepts and practice them effectively on my own.
Does anyone else feel the same way? There’s so much theory to absorb, and without others to share ideas, discuss concepts, or work on projects together, I sometimes feel stuck. I’m beginning to think this journey could be a lot more enjoyable and productive if we could team up.
So, here’s an idea: how about forming an online study group? We could meet once a week for a couple of hours. During that time, we could get to know each other, discuss our weekly learnings, work on assignments together, and even tackle course challenges as a team. Imagine being able to ask questions in real time, get feedback, and see how others approach the same problems.
If anyone is interested, please let me know! Whether you’re at the beginning or further along, I think we’d all benefit from the collective support and insights. Let’s make learning UI/UX a community experience!
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Samuel Solarin
Technology Service Desk Analyst at The Works Ltd
Meet people who love design as much as you do. Together we learn new skills, grow our networks, and discover new job opportunities.
An IxDF Local Group connects you with people in your city who are building and applying design skills in their work. Together, you'll strengthen your craft, expand your network, and put theory into practice.
IxDF Local Groups meet regularly in person at cafés, company offices, or creative spaces to share ideas, give feedback, run workshops, and learn from each other. Many groups also organize IxDF Design Dinners, where the conversation goes deeper over a meal. These aren't just social events. Members find collaborators, clients, job leads, and future teammates through them.
You'll also have access to a private online forum where you can get career advice, honest feedback, and support from people who understand the work.
You don't need to have a "designer" title to join. If you care about how design shapes products, careers, and organizations, you belong here.
Join and you'll discover new skills, explore job opportunities, and build relationships with people who understand the power of great design.
Your IxDF Local Leader organizes meetups based on what members want most. As an IxDF member, you can also plan and create your own meetups. Sessions range from hands-on and structured to relaxed and informal.
Some examples of what you'll find:
Presentations from local designers, followed by Q&A
Lightning talks where members share lessons learned from real projects
Workshops where you work through a real design challenge together
Portfolio reviews where you get honest, practical feedback
Coffee meetups and design dinners with open conversations about where the industry is heading
Any member can propose, organize and post a meetup. You don't have to wait for your Local Leader to take the initiative.
What stays consistent is the people. You'll find designers and professionals who ask good questions, share what they know, and show up for each other between meetups too.
Yes, absolutely!
Design skills make you more effective in any role. Product managers, developers, marketers, researchers, and founders all work better when they understand how to think like a designer.
IxDF Local Groups reflect that. Members come from all kinds of professional backgrounds, not just design. What they share is an interest in how design shapes products, decisions, and careers.
You'll fit right in regardless of your background.
In a world that's getting more artificial and competitive, IxDF brings the heart back, so you never have to face the job market alone.
Learn together, get mentored, find your next job, and build friendships that grow your career.