#WCW: Sophia Chang
Woman Crush Wednesday.
We love to celebrate female movers and shakers who are successful locally, nationally, internationally, and most importantly, personally.
This week, we are so excited to highlight Sophia Chang, illustrator and designer based out of New York City, whose immense client list includes Infiniti, Nike, PUMA, Samsung, Complex Magazine, the NBA, and Anthony Bourdain (No Reservations). We asked her to share with us her thoughts on success.
How did you get started in your field?
I attended Parsons School of Design 06-10’ majored in Illustration. During my time in undergrad, I wanted to make the most of my education so I took advantage of school resources including computer lab and library. I spent every free minute outside of school honing my skills, working part-time, working in various internships in fashion, publication and fine arts world. By the time I graduated I learned to create a magazine from scratch, work on marketing campaigns, design an apparel collection, work with production vendors and design websites.
Biggest "break" thus far and how you were able to achieve it?
My biggest project was with PUMA, where I designed their top grossing lifestyle collection up until 2015. This was a men's & women's apparel / footwear line sold internationally. After years of growing my skills, working with the industry’s top names and having people that could vouch for me and my work, the stars align and the buzz got on the right desks. I make sure to never stay idea and keep moving daily towards a goal.
Biggest roadblock and how did you overcome it?
I don’t really recognize my roadblocks and let it disrupt me so I can barely think of any. It’s all about rewiring your brain on how you want to deal with hurdles in life and in work. I believe that the sky’s the limit, and to stop making excuses.
Do you have a mentor? If so, how did you find him/her? If not, who do you model your professional goals after?
I had several mentors throughout my college years. None were women, unfortunately. Everyone that I interned with was a mentor to me because they took the time and patience to work with me, shape me into the artist / businesswoman I am today. I model my professional goals around my peers, my friends. I tend to only gravitate towards goal-oriented people.
If you could tell your younger self one thing to jumpstart her career, what would it be?
Keep doing what you’re doing. You’ve got a good head on your shoulders.
Sophia Chang is a New York born and bred illustrator and designer. She received her BFA degree in Illustration from Parsons School of Design in 2010. Since then, she has been an active member of the global creative community. From her student years to the present, Chang has immersed herself in a variety of creative fields from printmaking, graphic design, web design, illustration, marketing, event hosting, art curation and more. Her client list includes Steve Madden, Nike, PUMA, Infiniti, MLS, Pintrill, Yoplait, Adidas Stellasport, Samsung, Complex Magazine, VIBE, The Travel Channel (Anthony Bourdain/No Reservations), and many many more. Check out: her website at www.esymai.com, social media: @esymai, and her wellness brand/magazine: UNDO-Ordinary.