Profession: Architect
City: Leeds
Country: United Kingdom

What inspired you to want a life in Architecture and the creative industries?:
I always loved creating and drawing… and science and maths! I especially loved my best friends houses that her dad designed and built by hand himself! My mum was a single parent then but I knew that’s what I wanted to do.

Who inspired you in finding your path to Architecture/Film and the creative industries?:
My friends dad, teachers, but mostly my mum – who always worked (not in this industry) and strongly encouraged us to follow our passions and life’s loves.

How you unlock obstacles and overcome bias in your work?:
I’m quite an outgoing, chatty and bubbly woman that does not fit the typical architecture personality stereotype. At university on my degree, I was made to feel like I was too much – too passionate and noisy! It’s only when I went to do my part 2 studies that I found where I belonged. And then throughout my career I’ve found that there are just some workplace cultures that really just aren’t right for me – so finding the place where you belong, making allies and friendships with people you can trust to have your back is crucial for getting people onboard to overcome their biases!

What improvements do you feel are required to promote effective change in the academic and working environment?:
For universities and colleges to accept people with lower/different entrance qualifications for those embarking on the more traditional pathways, and also to support employers more with ensuring degree level apprenticeships work – and offering incentives to businesses to employ through this method to ensure fairer access to the profession – not just for those who are connected or wealthy.