Profession: Architecture – Researcher, Data Driven Design and Spatial Analyst
City: London
Country: United Kingdom

What inspired you to want a life in Architecture and the creative industries?:
My journey toward a life in architecture and the creative industries began at an early age, sparked by an unforgettable visit to Legoland with my mother when I was just four. Beyond obtaining my Legoland driver’s license – an achievement of its own – I vividly remember building a Lego house on a micro-earthquake simulator. Watching it withstand the tremors left me both inspired and captivated by the possibilities of design and engineering. That small moment marked the start of my fascination with creating spaces that could stand strong, adapt, and shape the world around them.

As I grew, this spark evolved, shaped by my exploration of architecture and its various dimensions. The works of Peter Zumthor, Kazimir Malevich, Norman Foster, and Zaha Hadid to name but a few, expanded my understanding of what architecture could be, each contributing unique perspectives on structure, form, and the relationship between space and human experience. They showed me that architecture is more than just building; it’s about sculpting environments that speak to the spirit and purpose of a place. This realisation, further deepened by literature on architectural theory and design pursuits, gave me an even greater appreciation for the art and science that go into each line, material choice, and space.

Travelling has also profoundly influenced my architectural perspective, allowing me to see how different cultures use space and design to express identity and solve real-world challenges. The opportunity to walk through cities with distinct architectural histories has shown me how buildings shape and are shaped by the lives they contain. These experiences collectively drove me to pursue a career in architecture, hoping to contribute toward designs that honour resilience, creativity, and the human spirit.

Who inspired you in finding your path to Architecture/Film and the creative industries?:
My journey in architecture and the creative industries has been profoundly shaped by the guidance and inspiration of remarkable mentors and experiences, each of which has enriched my path in unique ways. One pivotal moment was when Thomas Heatherwick personally invited me to work at Heatherwick Studio following a thought-provoking question I posed. Working alongside him and his team was transformative, showing me the power of curiosity and innovation in design and how creative vision can truly reshape our world.

Equally inspiring has been the influence of Baroness Doreen Lawrence, who played a crucial role in the selection process that led to my becoming an alumni. Her resilience and commitment to justice have inspired me to approach architecture with a strong sense of purpose, aiming to make a meaningful impact in my work. Neil Onions has been an invaluable guide throughout my journey, and his mentorship throughout my Part 1 provided much needed support. Neil Pinder has also been a constant source of encouragement, underscoring the importance of community and collaboration within the field.

Most recently, my MSc in Space Syntax: Architecture and Cities at The Bartlett, UCL, has provided me with unparalleled insight and opportunities. Under the guidance of Dr. Kerstin Sailer and the faculty on the whole, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of data-driven spatial analysis in relation to architecture and the urban environment, which has revealed profound relationships and areas within the architectural field which warrant further research, simultaneously allowing me to see architecture from a scientific perspective.

Together, these experiences and mentors have been foundational in my journey, pushing me to pursue my dreams and embrace the endless possibilities within architecture. Their influence continues to inspire me to challenge conventions and to make a lasting impact for myself and others.

How you unlock obstacles and overcome bias in your work?:
Unlocking obstacles and overcoming bias in my work is a continuous, conscious effort that combines self-awareness, collaboration, and an openness to diverse perspectives. I actively seek out varied viewpoints to expand my understanding, continually seeking to work alongside individuals from different backgrounds and disciplines. This collaborative approach not only strengthens my approach but also challenges my understanding of localised contexts when approaching research and design, pushing me to consider solutions that reflect a broad spectrum of needs, experiences and expectations.

In my work, research-driven methods are used to ground my decisions. My recent studies in Space Syntax at The Bartlett have equipped me with analytical tools that allow me to examine spatial patterns objectively, helping to uncover and address any unintentional biases that might influence design decisions. This data-driven approach ensures that my work is inclusive, functional, and attuned to the real-world societal needs of diverse localised communities.

I believe that mentorship and continuous learning are essential in overcoming obstacles and biases. By engaging with mentors and colleagues who challenge my thinking, I am continually pushed to question my assumptions and evolve my approach. These steps help me to see past preconceived limitations, creating work that is innovative, inclusive, and resilient in the face of both technical and social challenges.

What improvements do you feel are required to promote effective change in the academic and working environment?:
To promote effective change in both academic and professional environments, I believe several key improvements are needed to foster inclusivity, support, and growth. Increased access to financial support and mentorship- financial constraints can limit talented individuals from reaching their full potential, circumstances I experienced throughout my journey. Expanding scholarships, grants, and financial aid options would create a more level playing field, enabling people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to fully participate in educational and career opportunities. This support should extend beyond tuition to cover other costs associated with studies, such as materials, travel, and living expenses, which can be significant barriers for many students and early-career professional, particularly when studying in London. Where mentors can help navigate the long and difficult journey necessary to bring aspirations to fruition.

Fostering diversity and inclusion – proactively promoting diversity and inclusion in academic and professional environments is crucial for innovation and equity. Institutions should lead the prioritisation of hiring and promoting diverse faculty and leadership, developing curriculum that incorporates diverse perspectives, and implementing policies that create a supportive environment for people from all backgrounds. To name but a few areas where I believe real change can be made for the better of all concerned.