Carmel Simmonds, Architecture, London, United Kingdom

What inspired you to want a life in Architecture and the creative industries?
I wanted to be an inventor when I was little. All I wanted to do was create and design a better world. Around the age of nine I found a hobby in sketching. I soon started sketching buildings and one day sat in the kitchen and asked my mum: ‘who designed buildings?’ To which she replied, Architects.

Ever since then I analysed how buildings are the greatest invention there is. I worked hard to get where I am now, and I aspire to keep working hard to inspire another kid out there to follow their dream.

 Who inspired you in finding your path to Architecture and the creative industries?
My parents. My Dad would always help me with my childhood engineering projects and my Mum would sit and paint with me. From a young age they always supported me in following my interests. They are the reason I pushed myself to achieve my dream of becoming an Architect.
 
How you unlock obstacles and overcome bias in your work.
By never giving up and speaking up to resolve issues. My family taught me how resilience pays off, how honesty will serve you well, and how dealing with the issues in a respectful manner will resolve matters with the best outcome. These are principles I try my best to apply when overcoming bias within the workplace.

What improvements you feel are required to promote effective change in the academic and working environment?
By bridging the two. The academic side of architecture is outdated and teaches you to design but not how to construct. By implementing more relevant programmes within the academic teaching of architecture, students will be better prepared for the real world of construction when entering the profession. This may be a solution to generating a better generation of architects rather than just designers.