Co-founder and CVO @ Liminal XR | VR Ux/Cx Consultant
Ruth Diaz: Pioneering Transformation through Virtual Reality and Human Connection
Inspiring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the XR Universe
In the heart of San Francisco Bay Area, where innovation and technology converge, Ruth Diaz stands as a beacon of change. A visionary, an organizational consultant, and a VR Ux/Cx Consultant, Ruth has dedicated her career to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion through the powerful medium of Extended Reality (XR). With a rich background in clinical psychology, social work, and conflict resiliency, Ruth utilizes her expertise to create immersive and engaging spaces that promote human connection and understanding.
The Visionary Journey Unfolds
Ruth’s journey into the world of XR began over a decade ago. Armed with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Pacific University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Social Science from Portland State University, she embarked on a mission to transform lives. Her early experiences as a psychometrist, therapist, and group facilitator in clinical settings provided her with profound insights into human behavior and emotional well-being.
In 2018, Ruth took a significant leap, founding “Figure It In,” a venture aimed at reshaping organizational cultures. As the CEO, Organizational Consultant, and Leadership Coach, she led her team in challenging the status quo. Ruth’s approach was revolutionary – she tackled toxic work environments by encouraging uncomfortable conversations and embracing the complexities of privilege and power. Her emotional fluency model became a guiding light for many, helping individuals and organizations navigate the intricate waters of human interaction.
A Vision Manifested: Liminal XR
In 2023, Ruth co-founded Liminal XR, a groundbreaking company centered around diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the Core Vision Owner, she played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s trajectory. Liminal XR leverages XR technologies, including VR, AR, and MR, to build immersive experiences that bridge gaps and promote understanding. Ruth’s brainchild, the Deepen, Orient, Transform (DOT) model, became the cornerstone of their approach, facilitating personal and social transformation within virtual realms.
Under Ruth’s guidance, Liminal XR established three distinct subsidiary groups: aMazeXR (B2B), VorteXR (B2B2C), and belong·xr (non-profit community development model). These initiatives transformed XR from a mere technology into a tool for fostering meaningful connections and promoting inclusivity.
Awards, Accolades, and Beyond
Ruth’s expertise in VR design and her commitment to fostering inclusive spaces earned her numerous accolades. Her work on “Belong,” a virtual world dedicated to intentional community building, was featured in the Oculus blog, garnering widespread recognition. Additionally, her contributions to the VR community at Meta further solidified her reputation as a pioneering VR Community Design Developer.
Conclusion: Bridging Realities, Transforming Lives
In the tapestry of Ruth Diaz’s career, every experience has been a thread, weaving a narrative of transformation, empathy, and inclusion. As we delve into her story, five essential leadership lessons emerge, illuminating the path for future trailblazers:
Key Takeaways
- Embrace Uncomfortable Conversations: Growth often emerges from discomfort. Engage in conversations that challenge norms and foster understanding.
- Champion Diversity and Inclusion: Cultivate environments where diverse voices are heard, valued, and respected.
- Leverage Technology for Social Good: XR technologies have the power to unite us. Utilize them to create immersive spaces that promote empathy and connection.
- Lead with Fierce Compassion: Compassion is not a weakness; it’s a strength. Approach leadership with empathy, vulnerability, and authenticity.
- Empower Others: True leaders uplift those around them. Empower others to embrace their unique identities and contribute meaningfully to the community.
Ruth Diaz’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and technology. In her hands, XR becomes a bridge, connecting disparate worlds and fostering a sense of belonging. As we navigate the complexities of our own lives, let us draw inspiration from Ruth’s story, embracing the power of human connection and inclusivity. In the realm of XR and beyond, Ruth Diaz stands as a guiding light, showing us that true leadership lies in embracing our shared humanity.
