Research

Culture

People

Design

Testing

Prototype

Specialized in digital design rooted in diversity

We help small businesses in our diverse community grow with user-centered UX/UI designs that is powered by creativity, culture, people and collaboration.

Our Statement

We believe great design starts with empathy, fueled by culture and collaboration. Through strategic design practices we aim to build meaningful digital experiences that reflect the unique voices of the communities we serve and empower our clients to connect authentically with their audiences.

Ana Margarita Cardenes

Founder

UX Product Designer

Hablo Español

As the Founder and original visionary behind the studio, my roots are in visual storytelling, user-centered design, and full-stack engineering. While I now guide the studio's strategic direction as an investor and advisor, I empower our talented leadership team to carry forward my core mission: helping brands grow with impactful, end-to-end solutions.

My Timeline

2015 - 2020

Marketing Manager, Cardenes Market

Five years running the full brand and marketing presence for a family-owned bodega in Lawrence, MA. Real client, real accountability. My first design classroom.

2020

Began My Design Journey

While I've been passionate about art and design since childhood, I officially began exploring graphic design and computer science during my studies at Salem State University. I hand-coded my first sites in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and learned the foundations of Java, Python, and assembly through my CS coursework.

2022

Graphic Design Intern at The People's Forum

I gained hands-on experience as a graphic design intern at The People\'s Forum, contributing to a variety of creative projects that supported the organization\'s mission.

2023

Graduated + Started AM Digital Client Work

I graduated with honors from Salem State University, was inducted into the Tri-Alpha National Honor Society, and received a Graphic Design Award. That same year, I began taking on client work under the AM Digital name — informal freelance engagements with small businesses that would eventually become the foundation of my studio.

2023-2024

Freelance Jr UX/UI Designer & Developer

After graduating, I began freelancing as a junior UX/UI designer and developer. I collaborate with small businesses to create user-friendly and engaging digital experiences that help them grow online — designing in Figma and building the sites myself in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL.

2025

Graduated Master's in Digital Media

I earned my Master's degree in Digital Media from Northeastern University's College of Professional Studies. I'm now focused on using my design expertise to create meaningful digital experiences that drive positive impact.

2026

Studio Launch & Advisory Transition

Officially launched AM Digital Designs as a formal studio specializing in cultural intelligence (CQ). After building the studio's foundation and coding our UX research platform, AMD Global Insights, I transitioned day-to-day operations to our leadership team. I proudly advise and invest in the studio from afar.

See my design work →

Abril Faustina Cardenes

Co-Founder

Head of People & Culture

Hablo Español

With a strong people background in social work and HR strategy. I focus on studios culture, human infrastructure and team operations at the studio. I oversee employee wellness and structural development, shaping a highly supportive environment where our creative talent can scale and thrive.

My Timeline

2013 - 2017

B.A. in Sociology | Colgate University

Earned her undergraduate degree with a deep focus on societal structures, group dynamics, and human behavior, while actively collaborating in the Spanish Language Debate Society.

2017 - 2021

Talent Acquisition & Career Specialist

Built concrete corporate HR roots managing full-cycle recruitment at FedEx Ground and designing strategic career resource frameworks at Work Opportunities Unlimited.

2022 - 2026

Master of Social Work (MSW) | Boston University

Graduated with her Master’s from BU while simultaneously working on-site as a Clinician, Therapeutic Mentor, and School Counselor—mastering emotional intelligence and behavioral strategy.

2026

Co-Founded AM Digital Designs

Formally joined forces to launch the studio, translating her clinical training and corporate recruitment background into a cutting-edge, human-first operational ecosystem.

See my Linkedin →

Open Role

Studio Manager

Bilingual (English/Spanish) Preferred

We are seeking a leader to direct client management and oversee overall general operations across the studio. From daily account onboarding, this role bridges the gap between our clients and creators to keep projects moving flawlessly.

Open Role

Head of Marketing

Bilingual (English/Spanish) Preferred

We are seeking a Head of Marketing to lead our digital campaigns, SEO strategies, and social media growth. If you have a passion for helping brands find their voice and reach multicultural audiences, we want you on our team.

Open Role

Design Director

Bilingual (English/Spanish) Preferred

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to lead our creative team in crafting high-impact web designs and intuitive UI/UX solutions. If you excel at elevating brand aesthetics and scaling local businesses digitally, come build with us.

Marketing Team

Brand Ambassador

For Potential Investors

Unlock the Value of User-Centered Design

Download a exclusive e-book to gain insights into my design philosophy, the market potential of culturally-aware UX, and how we drive tangible results for businesses like yours. A must-read for any forward-thinking investor.

Download My Ebook

Subscribe Today