Project – Zorya, a Focus App for the Scroll-Distracted Generation

For this project, I initiated, designed, and currently lead the development of Zorya, a cross-platform mobile app built with Flutter to help adults regain control over their focus and screen time. Unlike traditional productivity tools or apps designed for students, Zorya addresses a specific pain point: the compulsive, unconscious use of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which affects more than just Gen Z.

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According to Statista, the average adult now spends over 3 hours per day on their smartphone, with 50% of that time on social media apps. This often leads to stress, fatigue, and reduced productivity — especially for those working remotely or in high-distraction environments.

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Problem & Insight :

After observing these behavioral patterns and discussing them with my circle (freelancers, students, remote workers), I realized there was a gap: existing apps are either too strict (blocking everything) or too vague (just timers). I wanted to create a tool that’s intelligent, non-judgmental, and helps build long-term digital discipline.

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UX Direction & Product Thinking

I started by mapping the user experience in Figma, designing a flow that minimizes friction  from onboarding to activating focus mode. I drew inspiration from Duolingo’s gamified logic and Calm’s emotional tone, to make sure users feel supported, not judged.

I led a multidisciplinary team working simultaneously on the Figma design system and the Flutter development, ensuring alignment between vision, UX, and technical constraints.
Thanks to my UI Designer certification, I have a deep understanding of Figma, which allowed me to make major design adjustments directly from refining screen layouts to improving hierarchy and accessibility.

I also created a custom mascot to humanize the experience and make the app emotionally relatable. To me, this mascot is a turning point: it elevates Zorya from just another focus app to an engaging, memorable tool a supportive companion for your brain.

I iterated quickly inside Figma to maintain a cohesive, high-quality design system before moving forward with the development phase.

Team & Technical Oversight

I collaborate with a foreign Flutter developer, whom I personally fund. We hold bi-weekly meetings in English, during which I provide updated designs, clarify product requirements, and review implementation progress.I lead the project end-to-end from product vision to delivery, ensuring that each feature aligns with the user’s needs and the technical reality. My role bridges UX strategy, interface design, team coordination, and product execution.‍

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Outcome & Next Steps

Zorya is still in active development, but the vision is clear: build a user-friendly, intelligent assistant that helps adults manage their screen time not with guilt, but with awareness and empathy.