Tech supporting the women leaders of the next generation
April 21, 2021
View Part 1 in this series
Watch our latest installment in a series of interviews discussing the unique experiences of women in architecture.
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This is the second of several articles, panel discussions, and interviews in our ‘Women in Architecture’ series.
Once again we welcome Tiffany Brown, the founder and CEO of 400 Forward a non-profit organization that has made recruiting young black women into the field of architecture its mission. Tiffany also serves as the executive director of NOMA, National Organization of Minority Architects.
Our panel also includes Sharlita Olaleye, as a beneficiary of the 400 Forward scholarship program, Olaleye received financial support for her full licensure costs from the organization. She now claims more than four years of experience as a designer in New York City and holds a Master’s of Architecture degree from Hampton University. Olaleye continued her post-graduate study in Italy, Salt Lake City, and Washington DC.
Watch the full interview, moderated by Leeswann Bolden, Senior Professional Services Consultant for GSNA below:
This interview demonstrates GRAPHISOFT North America’s ongoing partnership with 400 Forward – that has as its primary goal, to foster an increase in young black women’s interest in architecture as a career. Our partnership includes highlighting the unique challenges faced by this sector of the industry, providing financial support and training as needed to 400 Forward mentees. Find out more here.
All articles from our Women in Architecture series:
Part 1: Empowering the women leaders of the next generation
Part 2: Tech supporting the women leaders of the next generation
More articles to come!
Powerful Technology for Professional Flexibility
Working parents have long understood that to balance home and office duties – access to digital tools is needed. The ability to stay on top of projects and avoid being stigmatized because the work happens off-hours or from the kitchen table remains out of reach for some parents. The architecture industry is positioned to capitalize on technology solutions, such as those from GRAPHISOFT, that expand the office environment to a work anywhere platform.
Having a voice is a vital part of working in architecture and design. Amplifying women’s voices in the industry remains a key goal.
Tiffany Brown
Founder and CEO, 400 Forward
Mentorship Makes the Difference
It takes more than fancy gadgets and a strong Wi-Fi connection to power through adversity. Groups like 400 Forward establish programs to advocate for underrepresented individuals, providing mentorship to young women seeking careers in architecture. For Olaleye, the involvement of 400 Forward impacted the trajectory of her professional life, allowing her to achieve success in a field she enjoys – all while juggling mom life responsibilities.
Every parent has sent that late night email. It is just part of working mom life.
Sharlita Olaleye
400 Forward Scholarship Recipient, Zoning Technical Specialist
Permanent Shift or Temporary Adjustment
When lockdowns happened and homeschooling became the norm, parents took on extra roles they had previously shared with educators, coaches, and peers. When technology delivered results, some of the burden lifted, to be sure. The past year revealed how possible it is for architects and designers to continue being successful and efficient from the remote office. It has been encouraging to see how many wonderful possibilities there are.
When working moms have the technology they need to succeed, work/ life balance is within reach.
Tiffany Brown
Founder and CEO of 400 Forward
Graphisoft is committed to the goal of amplifying this important conversation about the ways in which the AEC Industry can come to terms with the issue of underrepresentation of Black Women Architects today. Watch this space for updates on our next discussion with Tiffany Brown and mentees who are currently benefitting from the partnership between GRAPHISOFT and 400 Forward.