“The Turnip” is more than just a children’s story. For Maryna Zabigailo, this old Ukrainian tale is a guiding principle in life: A giant turnip can only be pulled from the ground when everyone works together – from the grandfather down to the tiny mouse. “Only through teamwork and mutual support can we overcome big challenges,” explains the UX researcher with a beaming smile. “Every contribution matters, no matter how small it may seem at first.”
From Linguistics to Digital Transformation
Maryna’s career path reads like an exciting journey through different worlds. Born in Ukraine, she first studied linguistics and developed a deep love for language and communication. An internship abroad took her into the hotel industry, where she completed training as a hotel management specialist.
“In hospitality, I worked with complex systems every day – I found pricing strategies particularly fascinating,” she recalls. Her enthusiasm for complex systems led her further: With a master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Digital Transformation, she took a bold leap into an entirely new field.
The turning point came during an intrapreneurship project: Maryna developed a virtual training program for the safe use of 3D printers. “That was my ‘aha’ moment – I got to apply design thinking and prototyping, and I truly stepped into the users’ shoes. That’s when I knew: This is what I want to do.”
What Is UX, Anyway?
UX stands for User Experience – the way users interact with digital products. UX researchers like Maryna study how people use technology, what they need, and how digital tools can be designed to be intuitive, helpful, and pleasant to use.
“Imagine opening an app or program and instantly knowing how it works – no manual, no frustration. That’s good UX,” Maryna explains. “My job is to build the bridge between people and technology. I ask: What do users really need? How do they think? How can we make digital tools that simplify life, not complicate it?”
Bringing Empathy to the Industrial World
Today, Maryna focuses on UX in the industrial space – where machines are controlled, factories monitored, and complex technical processes managed. Her users are commissioning engineers, IT/OT managers, developers, and project leads – people working under pressure who need reliable systems.
“Many of my users literally have their hands full of machine grease and still need access to digital information,” she says with a laugh. “When a machine operator needs to make a crucial decision in seconds, the system interface mustn’t slow them down. It’s not about fancy design – it’s about real support in everyday tasks.”
She is currently immersed in design systems – digital toolkits that connect designers and developers. “A good design system makes collaboration more efficient and ensures that digital products are consistent and user-friendly. It helps us deliver better solutions, faster.”
Making Technology Accessible to All
Maryna’s motivation goes beyond usability. “My mission is to design digital solutions that improve people’s lives,” she says. Accessibility and inclusion are especially close to her heart – and often overlooked, in her opinion.
“Digital products should be accessible to everyone – regardless of age, background, or experience. Good UX can remove barriers and promote inclusion. In an increasingly digital world, that’s more important than ever.”
Teamwork with Ukrainian Roots
Maryna thrives in international, interdisciplinary teams. She brings not only her expertise but also a cultural perspective. “Growing up in Ukraine taught me how important it is to stick together and find pragmatic solutions,” she says.
So what makes a great team? “Openness, mutual respect, and a culture of honest feedback,” Maryna replies without hesitation. “And, of course, coffee breaks! Those informal moments are often the most productive – that’s when the best ideas emerge.”
Shaping the Future
In the years ahead, Maryna wants to deepen her work at the intersection of emerging technologies and human needs. “AI, the Internet of Things, automation – all of these are full of potential if we design them with a human focus,” she explains.
She envisions herself in a leadership role, developing UX strategies, coaching teams, and acting as a bridge between tech, business, and users. “I want to help create digital systems that not only function but also make sense – for the people who use them every day.”
Leaving a Mark – in the Digital World and Beyond
What drives you, Maryna?
“What drives me is the belief that we all have the power to leave a mark – in small ways and big ones,” she says thoughtfully. “I find it incredibly inspiring to connect people, open up new perspectives, and create spaces where people can grow and learn.”
For Maryna, values like honesty, compassion, and creativity aren’t just buzzwords – they are guiding principles in a complex world. Away from the screen, she recharges in nature and while traveling. “Connecting with people from different cultures always opens my mind to new perspectives.”
A World Where We Truly Listen
When asked how she would change the world if she could, Maryna doesn’t need much time to answer.
“I’d make sure we really listen to each other – truly listen, without rushing to judge,” she says with a contagious conviction. “I firmly believe that many global challenges could be solved more effectively if we treated each other with more empathy and never forgot that humanity is not a resource that should ever run out.”
This mindset is reflected in her work. In a time when technology often feels cold and distant, Maryna puts the human at the center. She listens. She empathizes.
At the end of our long conversation, she circles back to The Turnip: “You know, in the digital world, it’s just like in that story – only when everyone pulls together and brings their unique strengths can we tackle the big challenges.”
This philosophy is what makes Maryna Zabigailo an exceptional UX researcher: She blends technical expertise with profound humanity, creating digital solutions that not only work – but truly enrich lives. A bridge-builder between worlds, with Ukrainian roots and a passion for our digital future.