We caught up with Mexico City–based illustrator and designer Nicole Ochoa, who blends bold ideas with heartfelt storytelling. Nicole shares how childhood sketches evolved into a thriving freelance career, the values that shape her creative practice, and why resilience, community, and visibility are essential for emerging designers.
From advocating for fair recognition in the creative industries to championing personal projects, Nicole brings clarity, warmth and intention to every part of her design journey.
Can you share the moment or experience that sparked your passion for design?
I first discovered my passion for design when I was a child, drawing for hours and letting my creativity flow freely. It was through those early sketches that I realized how much I loved bringing ideas to life visually. Over time, that passion evolved, leading me to study graphic design, where I fell in love with everything that being a designer entails—the creativity, the problem-solving, and the ability to communicate ideas in a visual and impactful way. That journey, from childhood drawings to professional design, is what truly solidified my love for this field.
Can you tell us a little about your first few steps in your design career?
In the first few years after graduating in graphic design, I focused on learning as much as possible by working in advertising agencies and packaging design. Those experiences gave me a solid foundation in the industry, but eventually, I decided to follow my passion for illustration and took the leap into freelancing. My first projects as a freelance illustrator involved illustrating books and posters, which allowed me to explore my creativity in new ways and truly shape my career path.
What are the core values or philosophies that guide your creative practice?
The core values that guide my creative practice are:
- Collaboration over competition – I believe in making connections within the creative industry rather than seeing others as rivals. We grow stronger when we share knowledge and support each other.
- Lifelong learning – Creativity thrives on curiosity. I make it a priority to keep learning through courses, workshops, self-study, reading, and observing the world around me. Inspiration is everywhere.
- Consistent practice – Growth comes from doing. The more I create, the more I refine my skills and evolve as a designer. Progress is built through persistence and dedication.
What lessons from your early career have most shaped your leadership style and approach?
The most valuable lessons I learned in the early stages of my career to effectively manage projects were, above all, organization—managing time, setting priorities, and maintaining a balance between work and personal life. It's essential to plan wisely and stay organized, but it's just as important to allow time to rest and recharge. We do our best creative work when we take care of ourselves, and only by finding that balance can we bring our best ideas to life and pour our passion into every design project.
What strategies do you employ to identify and create new opportunities for emerging designers?
To help emerging designers find and create new opportunities, I focus on three key strategies:
- Building connections and community – I encourage networking and collaboration rather than competition. Sharing experiences, insights, and opportunities with others can open unexpected doors.
- Continuous learning and skill development – I believe in staying curious and always improving. I recommend taking courses, attending workshops, and being self-taught to expand knowledge and adapt to industry changes.
- Encouraging personal projects and visibility – I advise new designers to work on passion projects, share their work online, and build a strong portfolio. Putting yourself out there is essential to attract opportunities and grow as a professional.
By following these strategies, emerging designers can create their own path and open doors to exciting career possibilities.
What would you like to change in the design industry of your city?
I would love for designers, illustrators, and visual artists to receive the recognition they truly deserve—not only in terms of fair monetary value for their creative work but also as professionals in a serious and respected field. Creativity is often undervalued and sometimes seen as just a hobby, but in reality, it requires skill, dedication, and years of practice. It’s time to break the stigma and acknowledge that design and visual arts play a crucial role in shaping culture, communication, and industries worldwide.
Looking ahead, what do you think are the key factors that will shape the global design landscape?
- Sustainability and ethical design – There is a growing demand for eco-friendly and socially responsible design solutions, encouraging designers to prioritize sustainability in materials, production, and messaging.
- Remote collaboration and globalization – The ability to work from anywhere is expanding opportunities for designers to collaborate across cultures, bringing fresh ideas and global influences into the creative process.
- The power of storytelling – Brands and creatives are increasingly focusing on emotional connections through storytelling, making design not just about aesthetics but about crafting meaningful experiences.
Tell us some of your favourite, creative people and inspiring places in your city!
Three illustrators whose work I truly admire are Día Pacheco, Raúl Urias, and Maga Rey. They are incredibly talented mexican artists who beautifully portray our culture in their work. Their illustrations capture the essence of Mexican traditions while giving them a fresh, contemporary touch. Through their unique styles, they celebrate our heritage in a way that feels both modern and deeply rooted in our identity.
What should emerging designers keep in mind as they begin their design career?
Emerging designers should keep in mind that this career requires dedication, effort, and constant practice. Things won’t always work out perfectly on the first try, but that’s part of the learning process. Resilience is key—there will be challenges and setbacks, but the important thing is to keep pushing forward, improving, and believing in your work. Growth takes time, and every project, whether a success or a lesson, is a step toward becoming a stronger designer.
