Psst… I'm open for work : )

©2026 Cecilia Garcia

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OVERVIEW

Pawse is a built-in digital pet that promotes positive online behavior in gaming platforms.

PROBLEM

The current landscape of online gaming:

  • Includes over 600 million kids and teens, with 66% experiencing severe online harassment.

  • Lacks native guidance and supervision for younger audiences.

  • Leaves kids having a hard time understanding online spaces and how their words and actions affect others.

SOLUTION

The proposed digital product introduces:

  • A built-in companion that actively detects and blocks hostile behavior from other users.

  • Gamified reward systems to encourage positive interactions and teach kids the impact of their actions.

  • Automated safety mechanisms that alert a trusted adult during dangerous situations.

MY ROLE

Designer, Motion GRaphics

TEAM

Cecilia Garcia

Gina Lee

Thalia Merino

Vicky Li

TOOLS

Figma, Illustrator, After Effects

DURATION

3 months

Table of Contents

01

CASE STUDY

02

KEY FEATURES

03

DESIGNING FOR SOCIAL GOOD

04

IMPACT

01/CASE STUDY

Pawse is a digital sidekick developed with Microsoft to protect kids in online spaces while teaching them the impact of their words and actions.

02/KEY FEATURES

Pawse combines proactive moderation and real-time interventions to keep kids safe across their favorite devices.

STRIKE OUT

STRIKE OUT

Pawse uses AI to detect and block hostile behavior, permanently preventing users from interacting after three offenses.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

STOP AND THINK

STOP AND THINK

Pawse warns users before sending harmful messages, prompting them to pause and reconsider.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

STRANGER DANGER

STRANGER DANGER

An emergency button instantly alerts a trusted adult if a user feels unsafe.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

03/DESIGNING FOR SOCIAL GOOD

Pawse goes beyond censorship by encouraging digital empathy through an emotional feedback system that prompts kids to rethink harmful behavior.

Beyond Censorship

Beyond Censorship

Instead of simply filtering content, Pawse actively guides behavior by teaching kids the real impact of their online actions.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

Community

Community

Pawse encourages a safer, more empathetic digital environment by prompting users to reflect on how their behavior affects others.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

Identity & Belonging

Identity & Belonging

Customizable accessories help users form a bond with their Pawse, increasing engagement and openness to its guidance.

A modular design that represents the venue's historic significance and timeless spirit.

The dynamic system distinguishes three categories: Music, Sports, and Culture. Each sector of MSG's services is represented by a unique ring.

04/IMPACT

  • Fostering Long-Term Behavioral Change:

    By connecting digital actions to immediate, empathetic feedback, Pawse teaches young players to think twice and builds a strong foundation for positive online behavior.


  • Creating a Safer Digital Ecosystem:

    Through proactive interventions and cross-platform integration, the product transforms toxic gaming spaces into safe, enjoyable environments where kids are protected from harassment.