Rui Barroca

Rui Barroca is a prominent figure in the design community, serving as the Conference Curator for designFAO, an annual conference held in Faro, Portugal. His role involves bringing together designers and creative professionals to explore current trends and future directions in design, technology, and innovation.

Professional Background

• Education and Teaching: Rui is a university professor at institutions such as UMinho and UMaia, specializing in communication and marketing. He also teaches postgraduate courses related to communication at various educational programs, including those linked to sports organizations.12
• Consultancy and Mentorship: He is a consultant in communication, branding, and public speaking, actively mentoring startups through programs like Techstars Accelerator London and Startup Weekend. His mentorship has been instrumental in guiding teams through product development processes.12
• Technology Transfer: Rui has experience as a Technology Transfer Manager at CCG/ZGDV, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship since 2014. His background includes working with notable companies such as DSM Food Specialties in the Netherlands.1

Contributions to Design

As the founder of designFAO, Rui aims to cultivate a vibrant design community by connecting professionals with industry leaders. The conference features speakers who discuss various topics, including Web3, AI, and design systems.2 His commitment to knowledge-sharing is evident in his approach to mentoring and facilitating discussions that inspire creativity and innovation among participants.1

Personal Philosophy

Rui believes that effective communication is fundamental to human interaction and strives to foster an environment where emerging designers can thrive. His dedication to personal growth and professional development makes him a respected leader in the design space.12