Team Spotlight: Paula Mallol, Front-end Developer at Balloon

What is your role at Balloon?

I'm a front-end developer. I'm responsible for building new features and tweaking the Balloon interface users interact with. I make sure the web app and marketing site match design specifications and function properly.

What's your background?

I studied sculpture at university in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and discovered coding through Processing — a language designed for artists. I started building websites as a hobby when I was a kid, then formalized my career path by working in QA before transitioning into development roles.

Why did you want to join Balloon?

I appreciated Balloon's innovative purpose and its impeccable design. I wanted to move beyond working simultaneously on multiple projects with different clients, which was the norm in a traditional software consulting environment.

Why is Balloon's mission important to you?

The product levels up the playing field and makes sure unheard voices come to the surface. As a non-native English speaker, I appreciate how the platform helps me contribute meaningfully in a team setting.

Describe something outside of work that you're passionate about.

I love sculpture and ceramics, but honestly what I'm most passionate about is traveling and maintaining friendships with people all over the world. I had a particularly memorable trip to Japan right before the pandemic.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Climbing Mount Fuji.

What is your greatest fear?

Hating new music as I get old.

Who are your real-life heroes?

People with strong senses of humor who make me laugh.

What do you hate?

Stepping on loose sidewalk tiles during rainy days in Buenos Aires.

What is your current state of mind?

Peaceful and excited for all the new things that are ready to be launched in Balloon!