About Me

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UI/UX interaction Designer

Hello, I’m Ruwanthi Sulanjali Somatilaka (Many people know me as "Ru") – a UX Designer and Front-End Developer based in Glasgow, with a Distinction MSc in User Experience & Interaction Design and over six years of experience creating meaningful, user-centred digital products.

I thrive on understanding real user problems through research, usability testing, and data analysis, then crafting wireframes, prototypes, and polished UIs that address those insights. Tools like Figma, Miro, and Adobe Creative Suite are part of my daily toolkit, alongside HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap to ensure pixel-perfect implementation.

Beyond design, I enjoy exploring cross-cultural UX and localisation strategies to create products that resonate globally. I’m currently researching culturally adaptive interfaces for my honours project, driven by a passion to make digital experiences inclusive and meaningful for all.

Life at MLT (UK)

At MLT Digital, I design and build intuitive interfaces, enhancing over 40 client websites through user-centred design, usability testing, and front-end development. My projects span from redesigning legal websites to developing branding and websites for AI products such as ReceptIO.

Taking ownership from research to delivery, I conduct UX evaluations, propose CRO strategies to generate additional revenue for client packages, improve accessibility, and develop responsive sites on WordPress and Joomla. I work collaboratively with back-end developers, designers, marketing specialists, account managers, and data analysts to deliver successful projects.

Leveraging tools such as Google Analytics and Microsoft Clarity, I analyse user behaviour to optimise flows and overall performance. This role has strengthened my ability to balance user needs with business goals, manage multiple projects under tight deadlines, and deliver high-quality digital experiences.

Outside of work, I am an active rower, holding university colours in rowing from Sri Lanka with multiple race wins during my bachelor’s studies. I am now a member of Clyde Amateur Rowing Club in Scotland, where I compete with a Scottish Rowing racing membership. I also enjoy playing basketball with my partner to stay active and balanced.

UIUX Designer and Front end Developer

Life at GCU

Master of Science, User Experience and Interaction Design program deepened my expertise in creating human-centred digital experiences by blending theory with practical application. Key modules included Human-Computer Interaction, Visual Design and Prototyping, Applied User Psychology, Applied Usability, and 3D Production for Virtual Reality.

During my studies, I worked on real-world projects such as designing an AR-based visual guide to support solo travellers in low-visibility conditions, enhancing my skills in inclusive design and emerging technologies. Collaborating with peers from diverse cultures broadened my perspective, while workshops, hackathons, and guest lectures with industry professionals strengthened my practical abilities.

Graduating with Distinction opened the opportunity to become a Clinical Demonstrator at the university, where I now mentor students in HCI and UI/UX modules. This role involves delivering lectures, leading practical sessions, and providing feedback to enhance students’ understanding of user-centred design. I also collaborate with BBC industry experts in FigJam feedback sessions and deliver workshops on Figma best practices, wireframing, and usability testing.

Overall, this journey nurtured my confidence, adaptability, and critical thinking – equipping me to approach design challenges with empathy, curiosity, and a research-driven mindset.

Module Tutor HCI, UIUX and Visual Design

Life at WSO2

WSO2 is a leading global digital transformation technology company with 900+ employees, specialising in open-source and SaaS products for API management, integration, and identity solutions.

My journey at WSO2 began as an intern web designer and, through dedication and performance, I was promoted three times to become an Associate Lead Web Designer/Front-end Developer. This role allowed me to contribute to a range of large-scale B2B and B2B2C projects, supporting WSO2’s mission to simplify digital transformation for global enterprises.

I provided technical leadership on multiple website and email marketing initiatives, developing over 1,000 fully responsive CSS/HTML email templates and more than 1,000 web pages. By applying user testing insights, A/B testing, and behavioural analysis using tools such as Pardot, Google Analytics, and Hotjar, I achieved a 27% increase in mailer click-through rates and a 30% improvement in website performance.

I collaborated with cross-functional teams spanning product design, engineering, and marketing to optimise the WSO2 website, ensuring alignment with user-centred design principles and accessibility standards. My attention to detail, strong visual design skills, and ability to provide constructive feedback were recognised when I achieved top 5% global performer status in 2021, following 360-degree feedback from over 20 colleagues.

Beyond work, I engaged in the company’s sports community, playing basketball and badminton with colleagues, which helped maintain my wellbeing and foster strong team relationships.

Associate Lead Web Designer

Interests

Adventure photography, especially capturing landscapes and cityscapes while travelling
Exploring new places, cultures, and trying out different cuisines
Travelling and seeking out unique experiences and adventures
Watching movies and shows across various genres
Discovering new ideas and perspectives through conversations and exploration
Spending quality time and hanging out with friends
Fitness enthusiast – enjoy staying active through rowing and basketball
Creating detailed drawings and doodles as a mindful creative outlet