Designing Busuu's first major AI feature, and the system to scale it
Role
Design Lead
Scope
AI Product Design, Design Systems, Brand Direction, Illustration
Industry
Education technology
Credits
Illustration: Fuchsia MacAree
Motion: Alex Nollent
Busuu is a language-learning platform used by more than 120 million learners across 15 languages. As Design Lead, I designed AI Coach, the company’s first major AI feature – a conversational tutor designed to meet learners at their level.
I developed its interaction and visual language, alongside principles for how the AI should communicate with learners. The work became a catalyst for a wider evolution of Busuu’s design system and illustration library, creating a more coherent foundation across brand and product.
“Absolutely loved working with Calvin. Beyond amazing design acumen, he excelled at cross-departmental collaboration, brought a deep understanding of our product and had a clear vision for the brand. We valued his original aesthetic, structured approach to design systems and the calm energy he brought to every team engagement.”
Tina Vifor
Creative Director, Busuu
