In 1990, Mumbai-based architect Brinda Somaya had already spent a decade working in a silo as a woman in architecture with little or no contact and collaboration with other women professionals. In 2000, she decided to call upon her peers, women with diverse portfolios and practices, and was overwhelmed with the response she received from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. An unprecedented success, Women in Design 2000+ presented the stories of women in design, architecture, and construction.
Twenty years since that cornerstone was laid, she realised women’s contribution to discourse, pedagogy, and establishment of independent practices and partnerships has seen a quantum leap. And Women in Design (WID) 2020+ with the HECAR Foundation has attracted a roster of women with incredible foundations and facets to their experience.
“The idea developed by writing to a few good friends, discussions with family and our studio Somaya and Kalappa Consultants (SNK) here. The response from all was amazing, instantaneous acceptance. ‘We will be there to support you in every way’ was the answer.”
For three days, from the 8th to the 10th of January, 35 speakers and panelists from across the globe including Egypt, Lebanon, Australia, and the US will connect with 900 delegates via presentations, discussions, and exhibitions. A representative of all age groups, geographies, and philosophies, featuring global stalwarts and young dynamic practices, WID 2020+ is proof that the movement for recognition and change continues.
This story is from the December 2019 edition of AD Architectural Digest India.
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This story is from the December 2019 edition of AD Architectural Digest India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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