Architect | Town Planner | Urbanist | Educator, London, United Kingdom

What inspired you to want a life in Architecture and the creative industries?:
I have always been driven by a deep sense of creativity and a desire to push the boundaries of traditional architecture. I believe that our built environment plays a crucial role in shaping our society and have consistently sought to make positive changes in our surrounding environment. 

After initially studying town planning and completing a Master in Urban Design, I recognised the importance of obtaining a comprehensive understanding for the built environment industry. This realisation led me to pursue a career as an architect while raising a young family. Balancing work, family, and further education was challenging, but the knowledge and skills I gained have greatly benefited my career. I am continually inspired by my learning journey and the positive impact it has had on my professional development.

Who inspired you in finding your path to Architecture/Film and the creative industries?:
My colleague and former boss have been incredibly supportive in encouraging me to pursue a career as an architect. They recognise the benefits it will bring to my understanding of the industry and my overall career development. Additionally, the tutors at architecture school have been a great source of inspiration and have played a significant role in guiding me on my educational journey in architecture.

How you unlock obstacles and overcome bias in your work?:
It is important to address issues directly, bring awareness to them, and strive to find solutions. It is crucial to identify allies, effectively communicate the challenges, and collaborate on overcoming them as a team.
At times, it may be necessary to step away if the issues cannot be resolved. Your physical and mental well-being should always take precedence. Remember, there are numerous individuals available to collaborate with who can offer unbiased support and assistance.

What improvements do you feel are required to promote effective change in the academic and working environment?:
Diversity in the workplace, particularly at the senior level, is crucial for inspiring the next generation. It is essential to have diverse representation at the top to demonstrate to young individuals that they too can achieve success. Without visible role models, it is challenging to convey the message that one can aspire to be what they cannot see. This lack of representation may lead individuals to believe that the current system is not in their favor, ultimately resulting in talented individuals leaving the industry. This loss would be detrimental to our society as a whole.