Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #19: Taruna Gupta, NOMA, Assoc. AIA and Yash Mehta, NOMA, Assoc. AIA, Co-Founders of Defining Humanity!

Taruna is a Senior Associate at HGA Milwaukee, working as a programmer and planner. She values the importance of a holistic design process and champions equity and sustainability principles that enrich her projects. 

 As Co-Founder and President of Defining Humanity, a Wisconsin-based non-profit, Taruna has spearheaded global initiatives that bridge the gap between creative design and human need. Among her impactful projects are the 3D-printed school campus in Madagascar, prefabricated housing solutions for the homeless in California, and the National Resource Center for First Repair, a Chicago-based global reparations non-profit. Through her work and leadership with Defining Humanity, she has redefined how architecture can address the challenges of social equity and sustainability on a global scale.

Taruna is dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion within the architectural field. She actively serves on the Women in Design Milwaukee board and is the current President of Wisco NOMA. In these roles, she has led initiatives empowering women and underrepresented architecture professionals, including organizing workshops, community outreach programs, and student mentorship opportunities. 

Yash is an award-winning designer driven by a passion for turning ideas into built environments that create real social impact. At Clayco and Lamar Johnson Collaborative (LJC), he bridges design and construction through AI and emerging technologies, helping reshape how projects come to life.

He also founded two non-profits in the U.S. and India focused on using design and technology for global good — building 3D-printed schools in Madagascar, supporting shelters in California and India, contributing to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, and more. With two Master’s degrees in Architecture and Urban Design, and honors like the AIA Chicago, Benn-Johnck Awards Top 50 youngest architects in India, Yash’s work spans from government complexes and corporate campuses to grassroots community projects, always rooted in innovation and impact.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

 Listen here: IAC Podcast , and available on all major podcast platforms.

#ArchitecturePodcast #DiversityInArchitecture #InclusiveCommunity #ImmigrantArchitects #EmpoweringVoices #ImmigrantArchitectCoalition #Architects

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #18: Alejandro Calle, AIA, NCARB, Green LEED Assoc. licensed in US in Fl and Georgia, and in Colombia

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

Alejandro is an Architect for RS&H's Health and science practice in Jacksonville, Florida, where he is responsible for the planning, design, delivery, and coordination of projects.

He is pursuing a specialty in Healthcare Architecture (ACHA) and has collaborated with some of the largest healthcare entities across the Southeastern United States.

Born and raised in Medellin, Colombia, Alejandro has worked internationally in the design and construction of a wide variety of project types, such as Themed entertainment, Commercial, Single/Multifamily Residential, Hospitality, and Education.

Listen here: IAC Podcast , and available on all major podcast platforms.

#ArchitecturePodcast #DiversityInArchitecture #InclusiveCommunity #ImmigrantArchitects #EmpoweringVoices #ImmigrantArchitectCoalition #Architects #IACTalks

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #17: Bridging Cultures Through Architecture, with Gemma Devesa, AIA.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

 Gemma Devesa Gasco, AIA, is an international architect and Principal of her NYC WBE-certified firm, Gemma Devesa Gasco Architecture PLLC, based in Brooklyn. With over 20 years of experience spanning Spain, Sweden, and the U.S., including work on the World Trade Center Transportation Hub while working for Santiago Calatrava, she now focuses on sustainable, cross-cultural design. Gemma is an AIA Brooklyn Director, co-chair of Women in Architecture Brooklyn, and member of the AIA Global Practice Committee.

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

 Juan Ricardes holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Buenos Aires and is a registered architect with the Professional Council of Architecture & Urban Planning in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is also an International Associate member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in the U.S.

 Throughout his career, Juan has gained extensive experience in luxury hotels, resorts, retail, hospitality, and mixed-use projects. His portfolio features collaborations with leading industry brands such as Hard Rock Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, Intercontinental Hotels Group, and various boutique operators.

 Currently, Juan is a Senior Project Manager at EMPAD Architecture + Design in Clearwater, Florida, where he focuses on delivering design excellence and outstanding client service. His role allows him to lead diverse commercial projects across private and public sectors, including defense, aviation, and automotive ventures.

 Juan is an active member of the AEC professional community, serving on the board of The Center for Architecture and Design Tampa Bay, a member of the AIA Florida Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Council, and a mentor with AIA International. He also collaborates with the Immigrant Architect Coalition. His leadership experience includes serving as President of AIA Central Kentucky (2022), a board member at AIA Kentucky (2020-2022), and Vice President of AIA Tampa Bay (2019). Additionally, Juan has contributed to the community as a Commissioner for the Tampa Barrio Latino Commission and a Hillsborough County Public Art Committee member.

 In his spare time, Juan enjoys painting, photography, and traveling with his life partner. He has exhibited his artwork several times and loves visiting his family in his home country, Argentina.

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #15: Pathways to Licensure for Immigrants, A Conversation with NCARB.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new Licensing series episode, where we delve into the inspiring world of immigrant architects. 

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

PATRICIA RAMALLO, AIA, NCARB, MBA
Assistant Vice President, International Relations, NCARB
 
Patricia Ramallo started working at the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) in 2015 as part of the Experience + Education team. In her current role as Assistant Vice President of International Relations, she works toward developing new international reciprocity agreements and strengthening the Council’s relationship with its counterparts across the globe.

Before joining NCARB, Patricia spent 14 years in the architecture field. She has worked in Michigan, Kentucky, and New York on projects nationwide ranging from residential and multifamily to religious, commercial, and mixed-use buildings. She also serves as an adjunct faculty instructor at the Boston Architectural College, where she teaches two graduate courses in professional practice. Patricia is licensed to practice architecture in Argentina, Kentucky, and New Jersey.

Bryan Vallejo, Assoc. AIA | NOMA | CSM | CSPO | MIS

Senior Manager, International Relations

Bryan Vallejo joined the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) in 2019 as part of the Experience + Education team. He is currently the Senior Manager of International Relations, where he supports the leadership team in managing NCARB's international initiatives and programs that expand global practice opportunities for architects. As a subject matter expert, he develops strategic partnerships with international regulatory bodies, relevant organizations, and government entities.

Before his time at NCARB, Bryan served as the Executive Director of a real estate development firm in Washington, D.C. Prior to that, he worked for the Florida House of Representatives, overseeing government and community relations for various public officials. He earned his Master of International Service from American University, concentrating on United States Foreign Policy, and was recognized as a Social Innovation Fellow.

#ArchitecturePodcast #DiversityInArchitecture #InclusiveCommunity #ImmigrantArchitects #EmpoweringVoices #ImmigrantArchitectCoalition #Architects #IACTalks

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #14: Forging a Sustainable Future: a conversation with Eddy Santosa, AIA, LEED Fellow.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new episode, where we delve into the inspiring world of immigrant architects. 

Eddy is a globally recognized leader in sustainable building strategies and design, boasting over 24 years of experience. He has successfully delivered high-performance, sustainable designs for more than 300 building projects across the US and internationally.

Eddy’s exceptional contributions to the field have earned him the prestigious title of LEED Fellow from the US Green Building Council (USGBC), the highest honor in global sustainability. He provides technical leadership to several prominent professional bodies, including serving as the past chair of the AIA National Building Performance Knowledge Community, a board director for the International Building Performance Simulation Association (IBPSA) US, a USGBC’s Pro Reviewer and a voting member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) SPC 209-2018R committee. Additionally, Eddy is the vice chair of the LA Metro Sustainability Council.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

#ArchitecturePodcast #DiversityInArchitecture #InclusiveCommunity #ImmigrantArchitects #EmpoweringVoices #ImmigrantArchitectCoalition #Architects #IACTalks

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #13: Emerging as a Future Architect:  A Conversation with the 2024 IAC Scholarship Winner Kuna Bhardwaj.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new episode, where we delve into the inspiring world of immigrant architects. 

Kunal Bhardwaj is a recent graduate from NC State University with a Bachelor of Environmental and Design (BEDA) and a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch). He plans to move to New York City to practice architecture in the coming year and is currently working at Hobgood Architects. In addition to designing spaces, Kunal is an avid film geek. He has co-directed a short film and is working towards the script of his second film.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

#ArchitecturePodcast #DiversityInArchitecture #InclusiveCommunity #ImmigrantArchitects #EmpoweringVoices #ImmigrantArchitectCoalition #Architects #IACTalks

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #12: Legacy of Design: A Mother-Daughter Journey in Architecture, by Esther Sherman and Laura Sherman, AIA.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new episode, where we delve into the inspiring world of immigrant architects. 

Esther Sherman, originally from the Philippines, is currently a retired architect who previously worked at the University of Georgia. Despite her shift to handmade crafts post-retirement, she remains deeply connected to the architecture profession. Esther's architectural journey began in the early '70s when she earned her Bachelor's degree in Architecture at the University of the Philippines in 1975, earning her professional license in the mid-'70s. For over two decades, she practiced architecture in the Philippines while also teaching at the College of Architecture of the University of the Philippines.

In 1993, Esther and her husband, a US citizen, immigrated to the United States with their two kids in tow, seeking better opportunities. Upon arrival, Esther joined the University of Georgia, starting as a draftsman and later advancing to become a registered architect in Georgia in 2000. Her tenure at the university marked a significant chapter in her architectural career, where she contributed her expertise as an architectural designer.

Esther considers architecture a part of her being and also maintains a connection to the architecture community through her daughter, Laura Sherman, who is also an architect.

Born in the United States, Laura Sherman was raised in an environment rich with creativity and problem-solving, deeply influenced by her mother Esther's unwavering resilience and dedication to architecture and volunteering. Inspired by this upbringing, Laura pursued a career in architecture, her journey echoing her mother's ethos of resilience and commitment to the community.

Laura is currently a Project Architect at Gensler, passionate about adaptive reuse and community-oriented projects. Since graduating from Kennesaw State University, Laura has been heavily involved with the architecture community, stemming from the support of the Architecture Foundation of Georgia through her own education, to later serve on the board herself for three years.

In her current volunteer roles, Laura continues to champion the principles instilled in her by her mother, serving as the elected Georgia Statewide Representative to the national AIA Young Architects Forum and the emerging professionals director of her local AIA chapter.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #11: Radically Authentic, by Meghana Joshi, AIA, NOMA.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our new episode, where we delve into the inspiring world of immigrant architects. 

Meghana Joshi is an award-winning architect and Managing Principal at MG2 in Irvine, CA. Her work in Affordable Housing and Senior-living projects has been honored with accolades, including SAGE Gold, PCBC Gold Nugget, SoCal, Argentum, and NAHB awards. Committed to fostering Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice, she plays pivotal roles at AIA Orange County, as the founder of the Women in Architecture Committee and leader of the EDI+J Committee. As Vice-President, she passionately supports minority architects through "Project Amplify," dedicated to amplifying their voices and contributions while actively participating in community initiatives.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

Shaped by years of globetrotting and an insatiable passion for the practice, Sara Jazayeri is an award-winning licensed Architect and certified Interior Designer.

Sara began her studies in Paris, France, receiving a master’s degree in architecture from L’Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris La Villette.

Recently, she finished a two years business program, CCBP, at Columbia University.

In 1996 she traveled to New York to work at the United Nations headquarters and later worked in architectural firms before establishing her own firm, Studio 360, in 2008. The New York based architecture and interior design firm specializes in renovating and interior design high-profile residential and commercial projects. 

She has received several awards for her work, including the Mayoral Service of Honor from NYC Mayor Bill De-Blasio and the American Institute of architects, BQDA first award for single-family home design. Sara and her work are featured in press such as Remodeling,Architects, Architectural Digest, Domino, Home, and The New York Real Estate Journal.

In 2019, she became the first woman to be elected president of the American Institute of Architects, AIA Bronx, since the organization was formed in 1940. Sara specializes in Professional practice. She is Visiting Professor at Pratt Institute School of Architecture. 

As a mom of two boys, an advocate, and an entrepreneur, she believes immigrants, especially women, must put themselves in leadership positions, so they can influence decisions and ensure their voices are heard.

Tune in to The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast and don't miss out on the fascinating conversations that shed light on the triumphs and resilience of immigrant architects and designers. Subscribe now and join us on this incredible adventure! 

Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn