Farah (Ahmad) Qadeer
"Don't enter the field with the perspective that you are a disadvantaged female. There are plenty of opportunities for everyone, and I have worked with enough inclusive mentors to recognize that I deserve the opportunities that I have so that I can work at them, challenge myself, and continue to improve."
#WomenWhoBuild meet Farah (Ahmad) Qadeer
Farah is a New York City/New Jersey- Based Architect specializing in; Green Building Technical Standards Development, Project Sustainability Compliance Review, Building Energy Code, New York City Green Building Local Law, LEED Certification, and other Green Building Standards.
She is also an influencer in Green Building Marketing and Communications, exercising her passion for suitability as a Journalist, Public Speaker, and Social Media Content Creator.
ArchNative sat down with Farah to discuss her journey in the architecture field, the evolution of her design method, and advice for young women beginning their careers in the field.
How do you believe that Architecture school impacted and shaped your career?
The professors who thought about design functionally and practically were the most helpful perspectives for me as a student - more so than the 100% theoretically driven professors I've had. Going through architecture school toughens you because of the semester juror reviews from professionals who go in on your project with critique! I have built up more endurance and a tougher shell because of it, in addition to the ability to work late hours.
How do you structure your day to day?
I use my commute to catch up on engagement with others. Usually, that means replying to emails, returning calls or texts, and responding to any social media content I have received feedback on (tweets, posts, comments, etc.) During my working hours, I am focused on my 9-5 job and try to contribute to my team and gain insight that will help me become a well-rounded and more informed architect. After work, I dedicate some time to my own professional passion - again, the commute has been helpful for this! Scheduling collaborations has also helped me stay organized and keeps me on track.
What do you feel has shifted in your design method throughout your career so far?
I think more practically and more through the lens of a specifications writer after having engaged with green building standards for so long! I often think about regulatory requirements and how we can push the envelope to exceed those. I also try to stay current on green building trends to pitch them as ideas to those who want to think outside the box. As an architect, you often have friends and family asking you for direction, so I am happy to share insight.
Describe a work outcome, building project, or achievement that makes you proud.
I am most proud of the niche I have developed in my career trajectory. I was unsure of myself through the first few years of architecture school, often questioning my place in this field. I listened to my instincts and took on roles that have elevated what I enjoy the most. That's how I've excelled. For me, it's how architecture has merged with public engagement, journalism, and networking.
What is your advice for women entering the field?
Don't enter the field with the perspective that you are a disadvantaged female. There are plenty of opportunities for everyone, and I have worked with enough inclusive mentors to recognize that I deserve to be given the opportunities that I have so that I can work at them, challenge myself and continue to improve. One should find a mentor to help them recognize their strengths and guide them on the path with the fewest pitfalls. I am where I am because of the mentors who have helped me identify my specific talents.
Interview Conducted by:
Dahlia Ali