About me!

My name is Susana Sanchez-Young, la Chica in Jefe!

And it’s a pleasure to meet you.

I’m a visual journalist with 22 years experience in newspaper design and graphic/photo illustration. My design work has covered everything from presidential inaugurations to Spanx for men to nudist camps in South Florida… and so much more. My designs and illustrations have been recognized by the Society of News Design and the Virginia, Michigan, Florida, New York and California Press Associations.

How did the Designing Chica start?

I had an epiphany during my pregnancy nine years ago and I couldn’t find nursery artwork that fit my style and culture. I realized there was a need for cultured artwork. I work full-time designing, writing, illustration newspaper pages by day and I create designs at midnight. As an artist, I am inspired by my Guatemalan-Nicaraguan-American culture and current events.

Do you freelance?

YASSSSSSS! I am available for freelance graphic design, logos, brochures, coloring pages, corporate branding and identity. Hit me up on my contact page!

Where can one buy The Designing Chica artwork in person?

I have made a series of graphic illustrations that you can buy as prints and cards, posters, coffee mugs, and other cool stuff. Check out my Society6 store!
Or visit these shops:

La Plaza de Cultura y Artes,  www.lapca.org

Casita del Pueblo, www.casitadelpueblo.org

A Silvestri Co., www.asilvestri.com

View my journalism portfolio

From my 20+ years in visual journalism at The Washington Post and elsewhere, here are some of my favorite designs, many of which won awards!