Luce James
Design Strategist | Ascendant
Luce is a UK-born designer with a Master of Design from the Institute of Design in Chicago, specializing in social innovation, civic design, and design strategy. Their work focuses on breaking down systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity across urban environments. Luce co-led a project with the Chicago BIPOC community and the Forest Preserve of Cook County to create anti-racist pathways to nature, ensuring equitable access to green spaces. This reflects their deep commitment to dismantling inequities and fostering inclusive civic spaces.
Through their work as a design strategist at Ascendant, Luce has developed key skills to execute complex projects effectively. Across all projects, Luce employs human-centered design and problem-solving to create inclusive, effective policies that enhance civic engagement. Outside of their professional work, Luce is an illustrator and co-founder of Bizarre Bazaar, an inclusive makers market in Chicago. They are passionate about using design as a tool for facilitation, empowering communities to shape their own futures. Through their efforts, Luce consistently advocates for representation and inclusivity, believing that design can drive positive change and build a more equitable world.
Luce James is a session presenter for the Design as Activism Symposium.