From The Azores Archipelago to magier: Sofia’s Design Journey

Sofia is a designer at magier who transitioned from social media marketing into design, driven by curiosity and self-learning. Based on a small island, she now works remotely as part of an international team – balancing creativity, growth, and soon, motherhood.

Can You Tell Us About Your Journey Before Joining magier?

I was born here on the island, but I moved to Portugal for university. After finishing my studies, I decided to come back because my family and friends are here.

I started working as a social media manager at a local agency. At first, I was mainly focused on writing and content, but over time I realized that the part I enjoyed most in every project was actually the design. Luckily, the agency gave me the freedom to explore that interest, and I gradually started taking on more design-related work.

Later on, I also started freelancing to earn some extra income – like most designers do. That’s when the idea of working remotely really started to grow on me. Living on a small island is beautiful, but opportunities in design are limited. So it was just a matter of time before I began looking for remote roles.

Did You Study Design or Teach Yourself?

I studied marketing, and we had some design classes at university. But even before that, in high school, I was already teaching myself tools like Photoshop and Illustrator.

A lot of my learning has always been self-driven – tutorials, online courses, experimenting. And honestly, that hasn’t changed. Even now, I’m constantly trying to learn new things and improve my skills.

How Did You Find magier?

It’s actually funny – I first came across magier on LinkedIn about a year before I even applied. But it stayed in my mind as a place I’d love to work at someday.

When I finally felt ready to look for a remote job, magier was the first company I thought of. I was a bit nervous because it was my first time working in an international team, but my instincts told me to go for it. My husband also really supported me.

And it worked out – it’s been a really great fit for both sides. I’ve been here for about eight months now.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like for You?

My routine has changed a bit recently because I’m pregnant, so my energy and priorities are different.

I usually start the day having breakfast with my husband – it’s kind of our sacred moment. Then I head to my home office with a tea or matcha and check my tasks for the day.

If something in a brief isn’t clear, I’ll talk to my art director. Communication is really easy, and I feel supported. During the day, I try to take small breaks, stretch, and just keep a good rhythm.

After work, I like to go outside for a walk. I live close to the beach, so it’s perfect for unwinding. That balance is really important to me.

Where Do You Find Inspiration Living on a remote Island in the mid-Atlantic?

It’s definitely different from living in a big city, but I think there’s an advantage, life is slower here.

That gives me more space to really think about projects and ideas. Of course, I also get a lot of inspiration online and especially from my teammates. Everyone is so talented, and when you’re part of a team like this, you naturally push yourself to do better.

What’s the Most Valuable Thing You’ve Learned at magier?

Communication – 100%.

Sometimes a task can feel overwhelming, but once you talk it through with someone, it becomes much easier. It helps you see things from a different perspective and reminds you that you’re not alone.

At magier, I always feel like people have my back. That makes a huge difference.

What Kind of Design Do You Enjoy Most?

I really like more organic and raw styles, especially in print design.

I’m not drawn to super polished or overly “techy” designs. I prefer things that feel a bit imperfect but still beautiful in their own way. That authenticity is what I enjoy the most.

A Project You Felt Proud Of?

It might sound cliché, but I always feel like the best project is the next one.

That said, it’s incredibly rewarding to work on large projects and then see them come to life – like when a client sends photos of a booth or design installed in the real world. Seeing something you worked on become tangible is a really proud moment.

How Has This Role Helped You Grow?

Personally, it helped me deal with things like imposter syndrome.

I always felt like I had the potential, but being here proved to me that I can actually do this. That gave me a lot of confidence.

Professionally, it pushed me to keep improving. If you want to stay in this field, you have to invest in yourself – keep learning, stay updated on trends and tools, and keep growing.

What Advice Would You Give to Someone Applying to magier?

Put your insecurities aside and just apply.

You never know what might happen. I came from a small island and ended up working in an international team. If I had listened to those doubts, I wouldn’t be here.

How Is It Working in an International Team?

It’s been amazing.

You get exposed to different perspectives and new ways of doing things that you wouldn’t experience otherwise. And even though we’re all in different places, the team feels very connected.

We joke around a lot on Slack, and that human side really makes a difference.

How Are You Planning to Balance Work and Motherhood?

It will definitely be a challenge.

I’m planning to take five months of maternity leave, and then I want to come back to work. When I do, I’ll try to be as focused and productive as possible during working hours so I can fully enjoy my time with my family afterward.

What Do You Like to Do Outside of Work?

I used to go to the gym, but now I take things slower. I go for daily walks, usually by the beach.

I also love reading and listening to music. I have a record player at home, and I enjoy just putting on a record and relaxing. I listen to a lot of indie rock – bands like Palace are my favorite.

How Would You Describe magier in One Word?

Collaborative.

We often work on projects together, and that collaboration leads to better ideas and outcomes. Whether it’s between designers or with art directors, it really feels like everyone is working toward the same goal.