Envisioning Hope

An immersive, personalized storytelling VR experience designed for Gen Z individuals who feel anxious about the future. Users will regain confidence, find hope, and develop a clear action plan when interacting with AI Echo Lab.

Role: UX researcher & designer

Tools: Figma, Unreal Engine
Timeline: January - April 2025

Role: UX researcher & designer

Tools: Figma, Unreal Engine
Timeline: January - April 2025

Problem

Growing Concern About the Future Among Gen Z

Studies show that Gen Z is currently the most anxious generation, with over 60% reporting stress about the future—whether it be related to career, financial stability, or broader societal issues. Mental health challenges tied to uncertainty are on the rise, with one in three Gen Z individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Articles about depress teen in 2025

Interview results 2025

Interview Results

I interviewed my target users to understand their needs, motivations, and pain points. The three key insights from this research were:


  • People seek companionship.

  • They want their time to feel valuable.

  • They desire advanced technology that is accessible and affordable.

Young people today face unprecedented uncertainty and pessimism about the future.

Design Opportunity

The project I proposed is a VR experience that showcases a positive vision of the future, designed for Gen Z individuals who feel uncertain or pessimistic about what lies ahead.

The experience aims to address challenges faced by this generation, such as loneliness and a sense of aimlessness. Unlike video games or traditional VR therapy, this project combines a few effective interactive elements with a compelling, short, and personal story arc to foster a sense of community and emotional connection.

The goal is to enable users to discover how technology can contribute to building a better tomorrow while inspiring them to explore possibilities for their own future.

ALWAYS EXPLORING WHAT TECHNOLOGY CAN BECOME

Interaction design × creative technology

Zana Yan · Toronto

Contact · LinkedIn

© 2026 Zana Yan

ALWAYS EXPLORING WHAT TECHNOLOGY CAN BECOME

Interaction design × creative technology

Zana Yan · Toronto

Contact · LinkedIn

© 2026 Zana Yan

ALWAYS EXPLORING WHAT TECHNOLOGY CAN BECOME

Interaction design × creative technology

Zana Yan · Toronto

Contact · LinkedIn

© 2026 Zana Yan