Hi! Mi nombre es Miriam Cabrera-Santana, I am a designer, activist, and storyteller who uses empathy-driven design thinking to advocate for justice, community, and identity. I am deeply rooted in my faith, curiosity, and responsibility, my practice is an act of co-creation—bridging the intersections of art, language, and lived experiences to uplift voices, challenge systems, and reimagine opportunities.

As the daughter of immigrants, I believe design is a means of translating complex narratives into accessible, impactful forms that foster connection and change. I see design as a bridge between lived experiences, history, and opportunity. My practice is shaped by the intersections of identity, language, and advocacy—using visual communication to challenge systems, amplify voices, and cultivate spaces where others can thrive. I am a designer, activist, photographer, and storyteller whose work is rooted in empathy, justice, and co-creation.

For me, design is both a question and an offering—an act of faith, curiosity, and intentionality. It is the courage to ask “what if” and the responsibility to act with care. I see creativity as an ever-evolving exchange, much like the languages and stories I navigate. Whether through typography, photography, or systems thinking, my work seeks to dismantle barriers and reimagine opportunities for those often left unheard. At its core, my design practice is an extension of love—a calling to uplift, to disrupt, and to create with purpose.

I would tell myself two things:

1. Serve the work and it'll serve you.

2. If you truly care about God's creation, you must take care of yourself with the same love and intention you show toward others. Prioritize mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health, yes even more than the work. It's important to listen when your body, mind, and the Holy Spirit speak to you.

My favorite memory is when a couple of us spent a night watching a México vs USA fútbol match in the photo studio. Steph & I cooked food, brought snacks and pastries, and people joined in as the night went on. The game ended in a tie which is usually something that matters more to me as an avid México fan, but being with the people, laughing, talking about our projects and goals was something irreplaceable. 

Design for Social Value & Advance Design 2 hold a special place in my heart.

Seeing the work of Prof. Nelsen, Prof. Benson, and Henrik Soderstrom deeply influenced my approach to faith, co-creation, and advocacy, shaping how I integrate design and photography as tools for storytelling and impact.

Not 100% sure what God holds for my future, but I'm hoping to possibly be in Italy within the next 3 years studying with an Eco-Socials masters degree. I honestly would like to just travel and engage with different cultures, allowing them to influence my design and photography work and shape me into a better human being and disciple.

I hope to make work that impact communities, changes systems, and creates sustainable change for others.