Institute of Architects – Karachi Chapter’s event on 8th March, spearheaded by chairperson, Mishaal R Merchant, was one of a kind in its history. The event brought together a cross-section of women architects to share their concerns and celebrate their lives and careers. Considering the similarity in society’s outlook, IAP-KC had Ar. Gita Balakrishna as a keynote speaker. Her career has a multifaceted approach to architecture each leading to impart some form of knowledge on architecture, whether through Ethos or Archi-cause, archi-thon and many other initiatives. She has dared to rise from her trauma suffered at the age of 16 and is now spreading knowledge and joy. Her inspirational presentation set the mood for the afternoon. This was reinforced by messages from illustrious women architects from Pakistan. Messages from all of them based on work and life experiences had a common message – go beyond architecture and make a difference. Architects Yasmin Lari, Sajida Vandal, Fauzia Qureshi, Fauzia Asad Khan proved to be very motivating for the younger generation of female architects by highlighting their journey and perseverance against all odds. Architects Murad Jamil and Sikander Ajam Khan spoke on the life of (late) Ar. Shama Usman. All of these individuals have remarkable projects to their credit and their beyond is their service to humanity to improve the quality of lives of the under privileged.
The panel discussion, moderated by Ar. Khadija Jamal Shaban, took the cue from the first session where Architects Naheed Mashooqullah, Komal Parvez, Naheed Kazmi, yasira Pasha, Bisma Askari and Wajiha Siddiqui elaborated on their experiences.
They highlighted issues such as:
- Undermining the role of women architects by using titles such as interior decorator or landscaper
- Offering lower fee as compared to their male counterparts
- Breaks in career to raise children
- Deriding comments on women faculty that for rearing kids this shortened hours are better suited
- Harassment by Clients
- Lack of infrastructure such as day care / nursery in work place
However, the general attitude was positive all around. Women architects, because of all the constraints, persevere and strive even more. Family support is important as well as support from co-workers.
After all the serious discussions it was time for some fun. Quiz on guessing buildings and personalities was well curated by Fatima Ausat and thoroughly enjoyed by the participants. Ar. Javeria Nasi, Ar. Hina Mansoor and Ar.Royem Siddiqui sang for the audience showcasing their talent other than in architecture.
The well attended event concluded with High-tea around 8.00pm. The support of the following sponsors show their care for the cause of women architects.
