Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey in architecture?

My love for architecture began as a child, watching my parents renovate our home in Brisbane. I remember sitting on the back steps, fascinated by the builders and the process. Later, an architect gave me house elevations to colour in, and when my choices became reality, my dream was set.

I pursued technical drawing and design in high school, encouraged by my grandfather, before a brief detour into Psychology. Eventually, I moved to NSW to study Architecture at the University of Newcastle, working at a large firm from my third year onward. While completing my Master's and Interior Design qualifications, I specialised in Aged Care projects before broadening my experience across sectors like commercial, retail, hospitality, and, my favourite, early childhood education. Now, as Design Manager at Coverite Projects, I’m passionate about creating beautiful, functional spaces through holistic design and construction solutions.

Q: Why is it important to celebrate International Women’s Day?

It’s a time to acknowledge progress while recognising the work still ahead. With women’s rights under threat in many parts of the world, celebrating diversity, strength, and the unique perspectives women bring is more important than ever.

In professional spaces, International Women’s Day encourages reflection on the difference between equality, treating everyone equally, and equity, providing tailored support to achieve fair outcomes. True gender equity is about removing systemic barriers, not just achieving numerical balance.

Q: This year’s theme is #AccelerateAction. What does that mean to you?

Actions speak louder than words. While workplace gender ratios started as well-intended measures, true equity isn’t about hitting a 50/50 target - it’s about structural change. This means flexible work policies, accessible education, and career pathways that don’t force women to choose between work and family.

The conversation should shift from ‘equality’ to ‘equity.’ Rather than just hiring more women to meet quotas, we need meaningful support structures that allow women to succeed based on their skills, not just their gender. A practical starting point? More accessible career and education pathways for women with young families.

Q: Have you faced challenges in your career due to being a woman?

Absolutely. Architecture and construction remain male-dominated industries. While I’ve been fortunate to work with inclusive teams, outdated stereotypes still exist - especially around emotional intelligence and decision-making.

Rather than forcing change, I believe in leading by example. Success, whether it’s a well-managed project, a strong client relationship, or an empathetic leadership approach, disproves those who underestimate us. Passion, confidence, and experience should be recognised as strengths, not challenges to the status quo.

Becoming a mother highlighted the need for workplace equity. Despite assurances of support, my role was reduced, proving that fears around career compromise weren’t unfounded. Fortunately, the industry is evolving, with more firms embracing flexibility. Recognising that strong professionals deliver great work beyond a rigid 9-to-5 model is key to driving meaningful change.

Q: What’s one assumption about women in architecture that needs to go?

The idea that women design ‘softer’ or more feminine spaces. Great architects, regardless of gender, respond to briefs, interpret client needs, and design accordingly. Pragmatism, efficiency, and creativity aren’t gendered traits.

Q: Is having more women in leadership changing the way we design spaces?

Diversity at all levels changes design. It’s not just about gender, it’s about welcoming varied perspectives, experiences, and ideas. True innovation thrives in diverse teams. While women are often credited with empathy in design, I’ve seen men exhibit just as much thoughtfulness. The key takeaway? The more perspectives we have, the richer our design conversations become.

Q: How can male colleagues better support women in the industry?

Through action. Men still dominate leadership roles, making their advocacy crucial. Supporting flexible work policies, fostering inclusive cultures, and actively mentoring women are practical steps. When workplaces acknowledge employees as whole people, not just professionals, everyone benefits.

Q: Is there a woman (or women) who inspires you in your career?

I’ve been privileged to work alongside incredible women who inspire me every day. I’ve watched a colleague challenge male management and change company policies through clear, rational advocacy. I’ve seen women juggle career and family, proving that persistence and balance are possible despite expectations that they’ll step back. I’ve worked with female apprentices who held their ground in male-dominated spaces, earning respect through sheer skill and determination.

But what truly inspires me are the women I work with at Coverite Projects daily. The contract administrators who keep projects on track with integrity and (often) a wicked sense of humour. The architects and designers who bring creativity and technical excellence to every brief. The marketing manager whose energy and expertise lift our whole team. The sales coordinator who ensures seamless project execution from day one. The students who push boundaries, demand excellence, and juggle study with professional work.

These women, the ones making things happen, leading with empathy and integrity, and proving their value every day, are the reason I strive to be my best.

Q: What message do you have for young women thinking about their careers?

Back yourself. Never let someone else’s insecurity diminish your confidence. Success is built on integrity, resilience, and small wins - stay focused on your goals and trust in your abilities.

Q: How do we move beyond conversation to accelerate change in the workplace?

Equity is about action, not just discussion. Real change happens when workplaces adopt tailored policies - flexible arrangements, mentorship programs, and clear pathways for career progression. We need to highlight companies making these shifts and celebrate their successes to set a new industry standard.

Final thoughts: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

You can be an architect, a mother, a wife, and love what you do. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.