FOURTH YEAR UNDERGRADUATE
Duha Ismail—JFA Diversity and Inclusion in Architecture Award
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Duha Ismail—JFA Diversity and Inclusion in Architecture Award
Throughout my tenure at DAS, I have sought to cultivate both leadership and community engagement, with a particular focus on championing diversity across my academic and extracurricular pursuits. I view the integration of these values as fundamental not only to my personal growth but also to the impact I aspire to make as a designer and collaborator.
As Vice President of Public Relations and Graphics for the Architecture Course Union (ACU), I played a central role in fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment for the student body. Working closely with a talented team, I helped organize key events such as the Women in Architecture Symposium and contributed to the development of a wellness space on campus. My leadership in ACU also extended to my involvement in the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDIJ) Committee, where I actively worked to address the challenges faced by our peers, advocating for initiatives that promote meaningful, systemic change.
Beyond formal leadership roles, I make a concerted effort to engage with my peers in more informal settings. I believe in the value of community-building through spontaneous, less structured events, such as participating in a dance class hosted by Leo Roytman. These activities provide an opportunity to connect with others on a personal level while fostering a sense of camaraderie within an academic context.
Earlier this semester, I had the privilege of contributing to the From MAXXI to MET: Women in Architecture exhibition, where I collaborated with my colleagues to curate and display the exceptional work of Italian and Canadian architects. This experience not only broadened my understanding of global design practices but also facilitated connections with a diverse array of architects, designers, and students. The exhibition's inspiring works and the thought-provoking discussions that emerged from it continue to shape my design approach. My involvement in such collaborative projects, particularly in competition settings, reinforces my commitment to incorporating diversity into my practice, ensuring that my work remains inclusive and globally relevant.
As Vice President of Public Relations and Graphics for the Architecture Course Union (ACU), I played a central role in fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment for the student body. Working closely with a talented team, I helped organize key events such as the Women in Architecture Symposium and contributed to the development of a wellness space on campus. My leadership in ACU also extended to my involvement in the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDIJ) Committee, where I actively worked to address the challenges faced by our peers, advocating for initiatives that promote meaningful, systemic change.
Beyond formal leadership roles, I make a concerted effort to engage with my peers in more informal settings. I believe in the value of community-building through spontaneous, less structured events, such as participating in a dance class hosted by Leo Roytman. These activities provide an opportunity to connect with others on a personal level while fostering a sense of camaraderie within an academic context.
Earlier this semester, I had the privilege of contributing to the From MAXXI to MET: Women in Architecture exhibition, where I collaborated with my colleagues to curate and display the exceptional work of Italian and Canadian architects. This experience not only broadened my understanding of global design practices but also facilitated connections with a diverse array of architects, designers, and students. The exhibition's inspiring works and the thought-provoking discussions that emerged from it continue to shape my design approach. My involvement in such collaborative projects, particularly in competition settings, reinforces my commitment to incorporating diversity into my practice, ensuring that my work remains inclusive and globally relevant.
