From digital agencies to freelancing, and eventually finding her sweet spot in systems design, Merve Goulding proves that the scenic route can lead to the most rewarding destinations. Now a specialist in custom Notion systems, Merve blends her background in design, development, and a deep love for organisation to help others fall back in love with their work.

Can you share a bit about your background?

I’m a Systems Designer specialising in building custom Notion systems. I have a BA in Photography and Video, and over the years, I’ve built up experience in UX/UI design and front-end development, which are essential skills for my current work.

Did you come up through a “traditional” techie route or has your career taken twists and turns along the way?

It might look like my career has taken many twists and turns, but when I look back, almost all my past experiences prepared me for what I do today.

I’ve always believed that work should feel like play, but it took me a while to find what I deeply enjoy. I worked in digital agencies before becoming a freelance Web Designer. Then, at the age of 40, I got to transform something I was passionate about (organising information) into my full-time work as a systems designer.

Reflecting on your career, is there a specific moment that stands out as pivotal or defining?

Discovering Notion was a defining point in my career. I immediately saw its potential for creating systems that could help professionals and teams work more efficiently. It was also a perfect intersection of my skills in design, development, and information organisation. This realisation led me to transition from web design to systems design, allowing me to help other businesses improve their workflows and love Mondays again.

What piece of advice would you give your younger self as you embarked on your professional journey?

Surround yourself with helpful people: mentors you can learn from, proteges who appreciate your knowledge, and peers who are on a similar journey. Always seek out opportunities for collaboration – they’re goldmines for building meaningful connections and expanding your support circle. And remember that these relationships work both ways; while you’re learning from others, you’re also helping them grow.

Looking ahead, what’s your big prediction for the tech landscape in 2025?

The shift to remote work that started with the pandemic has permanently changed how we think about workplace flexibility. I see the freelance economy continuing to grow as creatives prioritise freedom in choosing where and when they work and who they collaborate with.

We also urgently need more comprehensive regulations around AI tools to reduce their environmental impact through energy consumption while addressing ethical concerns about data privacy and the sustainability of creative jobs. This is not a prediction but more a hope.

Considering your involvement in Silicon Brighton and community-building, what does the concept of ‘community’ mean to you personally? How important is it in the tech industry?

Communities are essential in tech. They are where we can access peer support and learn from others’ experiences. I love this quote by Simon Sinek, which perfectly captures my view: “A community is a group of people who agree to grow together.”

In the tech industry, communities help us navigate rapid change, share knowledge, and find solutions to common challenges. I’ve experienced this firsthand through The Solo Club, a member-driven micro-community of creatives and tech professionals dedicated to supporting each other.

These connections become even more valuable when working independently or remotely, as they provide both professional and personal support as well as a sense of belonging.

How do you balance staying updated with the latest industry trends while ensuring continuous personal and professional growth? Any specific resources or practices you find particularly valuable?

I stay updated through a combination of active learning and practical application. I regularly participate in courses and webinars and follow thought leaders I respect.

But the actual learning happens when we put knowledge into practice. Whenever I learn something new, I look for opportunities to apply it in real-world situations through client projects, personal experiments, or business activities. This hands-on approach helps me retain information for longer.

As someone who has contributed significantly to the community, how do you see mentorship playing a role in the development of the next generation of tech professionals?

Mentorship is particularly powerful as it’s a two-way street —we guide newcomers through technical challenges while learning from their fresh perspectives. In tech, we often find ourselves being teachers and students at the same time, which creates an ideal environment for professional development.

Anything else you would like to promote to our community?

You can find me on LinkedIn talking about Notion, systems, and productivity. Come and say hi: linkedin.com/in/mervegoulding

Is there any additional wisdom, experience, or anecdotes you’d like to share with our audience?

Don’t be afraid to take the scenic route in your career. Looking back, I’ve learned that what might seem like detours often become valuable assets in finding work we enjoy.