Thokozani Mabena
Design Strategy
Relevant Experience
User Experience and Strategic Designer
Nissan Design America Research Center - Silicone Valley , CA
September 2017 - June 2018
Challenged traditional thinking within the Interior Design team to influence future forward innovation while supporting global and strategic priorities across functional teams. Delivered flexibility and evolution while respecting the cultural heritage of Nissan Japan. Redefined the brand vision through conceptual design proposals that push the boundaries of user experience and product innovation within the Nissan / Infiniti ecosystem.
Vehicle and Mobility Systems Design Strategist
Rivian Automotive - Detroit, MI
May - December 2016
Lead user research and design concept development of interior and exterior for premium electric vehicles, transforming the team collaboration between design, engineering, business strategy and leadership, resulting in a high performance workplace environment. Designed and developed the strategic and creative implementation of two new electrical intelligent adventure AWD platform vehicles for a high profile client, set to launch in 2019. Challenged existing systems to successfully deliver current and future transportation concepts and solutions from concept to execution.
Interior and User Experience Design Intern
Volkswagen Audi Design Center - Los Angeles, CA
April - December 2015
Sole intern for the new concepts program that investigates the future connection between humans and machines. Developed advanced automotive interior and interaction design projects through innovative design proposals that redefine the experience of human mobility. Managed multiple projects in different phases, while effectively maintaining expectations of budget, schedule and quality. Offered a UX/UI position in Volksburg, Germany.
Senior Architectural Designer
Graham Downes Architectural - San Diego, CA
January 2010 - April 2012
Collaborated with Oakley design studio to conceptualize a brand identity for their global retail experiences. Developed and designed then ground breaking initiatives in co-working studios named Blokhaus. Partnered with international investors to rapidly design and implement over fifty retail environments for LoveCulture. Coordinated site-visits to review and approve joinery and textures while assisting contractor and supplier communication management regarding: sourcing, construction & reviews. Organized schematic design packages for a multitude of speculative projects and development projects.
Architectural Designer
Orcutt Winslow Architects - Phoenix, AZ
January 2007 - December 2009
Co-trained over 200 employees in BIM (Building information modeling Process) software tools: Graphisoft ArchiCAD for various department studios including extended living, healthcare and education. Co-ordinated consultant efforts, identified barriers and resolved design issues as they emerged during the construction phase.
Education & Certification
Art Center College of Design
BS: Transportation Design
Graduated: 2017
Pasadena, CA
University of Cape Town
BAS: Architectural Studies
Graduated: 2006 (Honors)
South Africa
Dot Magazine // Publication
Student Feature, 2017
ArtCenter College of Design
Transportation Department
Scholarship, 2012 -2017
Nissan Design America
Scholarship, 2015 & 2016
Educational Partnerships // Publication
New Car Experiences // 2015
Auto UI // Publication
Wearable Seat, 2015
Patent // Intel + Landrover Jaguar
Wearable Seat, 2015
ArtCenter College of Design
Student Gallery, 2014
Designmatters // Publication
Nike Girleffect, 2014
San Diego Metro // Publication
Business Report, 2011
TEDX San Diego // Speaker
Lines in motion, 2011