Meet Ana Santamarina, our Product Designer. Ana sees herself as the bridge connecting all departments within the organization. It's this connectivity that excites her the most—the opportunity to engage with different minds and perspectives daily. Ana finds joy in the opportunity to collaborate with talented individuals from around the world, despite the occasional bumps on the road.
At Varda, Ana is particularly proud of her recent project, 'Vardianas of the Galaxy’, a woman empowerment group. This initiative, despite its challenges with remoteness and cultural diversity, is creating a space for meaningful conversations and connections among women from different places. Ana's journey to Varda wasn't just a career move; it was a conscious decision to align her work with her ethical values.
She sought an environment where talent thrived, and where collaboration was encouraged. As for collaboration within Varda, Ana emphasizes the importance of respect and humor. In an environment where hours can quickly go by, a smile goes a long way in fostering friendship. Effective communication is key in remote work, and Ana uses various channels to ensure collaboration, opting for chats and emails over excessive meetings whenever possible. Mentorship, for Ana, isn't confined to a single individual. She draws inspiration from everyone she encounters, viewing each interaction as an opportunity for growth.
Ana's personal growth extends beyond her job description. Books like "Synchrodestiny" by Deepak Chopra and "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle have been guiding her,bringing her to a life beyond living on ‘autopilot’. Her vision for the future aligns closely with the evolution of her industry. She sees Varda as an indicator of much-needed change, leveraging global collaboration to bring transparency to an industry that can benefit from it.
After a challenging day, Ana recharges in various ways, whether it's a session at the gym, a leisurely walk, or a spontaneous dance in her dining room. While maintaining work-life balance can be a challenge, working remotely has brought her newfound happiness, eliminated the commute, and allowed her the comfort of her own workspace. Staying motivated isn't just about professional success; it's about finding balance in personal life as well. Ana's partner and meditation practice play important roles in maintaining her positive mindset.
In Ana Santamarina, Varda sees not just an employee but a source of connectivity, bridging gaps, fostering collaboration, and embodying the spirit of innovation. As she continues to tread her path, Ana reminds us that success isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about building meaningful bridges that connect us to each other.
