To celebrate the 2023 March 8th International Women’s Day theme: #EmbraceEquity, AIANY Women in Architecture (WIA) was honored to feature Julia Gamolina, Assoc. AIA, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Madame Architect, a digital magazine and media start-up that celebrates the extraordinary women that have shaped our world. Julia shared with us the evolution of Madame Architect and highlights of the collective stories and lessons from Madame Architect’s 400+ interviews, the core of Madame Architect that has been tremendously impactful in providing a way forward to embracing equity in the practice of architecture and the allied industries.

Julia shared her personal journey starting in Siberia, then to Canada, and finally to the USA, where she studied architecture. Upon graduation and entering the practice of architecture, Julia sought mentorship, and, inspired by the extraordinary stories of women she was having conversations with, was motivated to begin Madame Architect to share the stories and lessons more widely. Since then, Madame Architect has grown in content to include Days With, The Expert, NextGen, City Life, In Ink, Reviews, and Expanding the Conversation. Following the presentation, Vivian Lee, FAIA, AIANY WIA Committee Co-Chair, and Madame Architect’s first interviewee, moderated an engaging conversation with Julia about her current impact, aspirations, and future pathway. They discussed the difference between equality and equity, and the importance of equity in recognizing each person’s unique circumstances, deserving of an appropriate measure of resources and opportunities. Julia spoke about a renewed interest in design, inspirational writers and thinkers, and balancing your ambitions—“do what excites and energizes you.”

A special thank you to our hosts at the beautiful AKDO Showroom, who were generous in their hospitality and providing delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks. We had a packed house in the company of friends and colleagues, including many of our male allies and a group of students visiting from Manchester Metropolitan University, UK! We are grateful to all who attended and look forward to seeing you at our next event!