You can call me Jemima, but my friends call me Dara ◡̈
I design digital products that tackle complex problems, serve real people, and deliver meaningful value. Over the past 7 years, I’ve done this as a solo designer at startups like WiiCreate, at agencies such as Anakle, as a consultant through the Toptal network, and as part of larger product teams at Paystack.
Currently, I’m a Senior Product Designer at Paystack, focusing on Pax, our design system. I’ve also helped develop Connect (a payment solution for SaaS platforms and marketplaces), simplified onboarding flows, improved platform fund flows, and supported businesses across multiple African markets.
Previously, I led the creation of a design system for one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S., guiding over 10 product teams and 50 engineers to build more consistently across many products.
On the side, I co-founded Nara— a travel concierge that simplifies trip planning across West Africa. I led branding and designed the early service and product experience, helping shape the idea into reality.
How I think about design
I believe good design should be more than just functional—it should be thoughtful, responsible, and grounded in real human needs.
Design has consequences. As Mike Monteiro writes in Ruined by Design, “what we help design, what we choose not to design, and who we ignore during the process are all political acts.”
I strive to make choices that help more than they harm, considering the impact on users, non-users, and society at large.
To me, inclusive design is simply good design. Inspired by Microsoft’s Inclusive Design Principles, I aim to design for the full range of human difference—across ability, language, culture, gender, and more. I know I can’t remove every barrier, but I believe it’s always worth trying.
Growing up in Nigeria, I learned early that wahala no dey finish—problems are endless. If I can help ease even one, that’s a good day’s work.
What I’m building and becoming
I’ve built a strong foundation in interface design, design systems, user research, and product strategy. I enjoy thinking in systems, asking good questions, and finding the right balance between structure and flexibility.
Recently, I’ve been learning to sketch, bake, and take photos—of myself, nature, and loved ones. I’m planning better trips, stumbling my way through piano practice, and, most importantly, learning to enjoy life as it comes: slowly, joyfully, and without any pressure to turn hobbies into achievements.