Design with intention. Lead with impact.
Frameworks, workbooks, and conversations built to move you from knowing better to doing better in your design work.
"I believe we can all start doing something right now that can create positive outcomes for people who have been historically excluded."
— Jessica Bantom
From intention to impact through design
Jessica's work helps designers and organizations move beyond good intentions into measurable, authentic change. Through her frameworks, conversations, and actionable practices, she guides teams to design with cultural competence and honor the full humanity of the people they serve.
Frameworks that work
Proven methodologies like the 6 Habits of Culturally Competent Designers guide your practice.
Actionable practices
Move beyond theory into real strategies you can implement immediately in your work.
Identity-centered design
Learn to honor human identity and cultural context in every design decision you make.
The perspective behind the work
This work is rooted in lived experience—seeing how design decisions are made, who they center, and who they leave out. Over time, a disconnect between good intentions and meaningful impact became clear. This realization shaped a commitment to helping the design industry move from awareness to action.
Take the free assessment
Discover where you stand in your journey toward culturally competent design. Get personalized insights and next steps.
Design for Identity
A strategic guide to creating work that honors human identity and drives real change
The methodology that transforms design practice. This book provides the frameworks and conversations needed to move beyond intention into measurable impact. Learn how to design with cultural competence at every level.
Actionable design methods
Cultural competence practices
Identity-centered thinking
Digital workbook for culturally competent design
Get practical exercises and reflection prompts you can use immediately. This workbook turns theory into action for you and your team.
Reflection exercises to deepen your practice
Worksheets for applying frameworks to real projects
Conversation guides for your design team
What leaders say
"Jessica is an incredible speaker who taps into the hearts and minds of passionate designers who want to get involved in the DEIB space. Her powerful message sheds light on the fact that it takes a certain competency and rigor to make systemic change; and with the right tools, training, and mindset anything is possible."
Amanda Ramos
Gensler"Design for Identity is an eye-opening, accessible read that will change how you think about design—not just for clients but also in how you collaborate with your team. It challenges you to see design as a tool for inclusivity and connection - a must read for anyone in our field."
Andrea Hsu
NK Architects"This was an awesome session! Jessica's work speaks to the price we all pay when we ignore the importance of identity and inclusive design! Thank you for extending the invitation Kendall College of Art and Design - and the opportunity to meet one of my SHEros!"
Kamara Sudberry
Steelcase
What we explore together
Bring these frameworks and expertise to your next event or workshop. Each session is built for real change—not just inspiration.
Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers
Learn the practices that move intention into impact
The DEIB Blueprint
Build a strategic foundation for inclusive design work
Identity in Design
Hands-on sessions that challenge assumptions and build skills
Featured writing
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Featured writing *
Why I Pause When You Want to Shout
Medium
Reflections on navigating identity, emotions, and the choice to respond thoughtfully in moments of injustice.
Why D&I Efforts Formulated without Input from Underrepresented
Medium
Understanding why diversity initiatives need authentic participation from the communities they aim to serve.
The Lived Experience Quotient: The Most Overlooked and
Medium
Exploring why lived experience is a critical—yet often dismissed—qualification in design and leadership.
Facing a Crossroads: Assessing the State of EDI in Design
OfficeInsight
An industry perspective on where equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts stand in the design profession today.