Yasmin Morais Torquato is a rising junior studying Architecture at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. Originally from Brazil, Yasmin chose architecture to have a meaningful impact in her surroundings through creative design. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new places, curating playlists, and engaging in various arts like writing, photography, and drawing. During her summer internship at West Work, Yasmin attended the AIAS Grassroots conference in Washington D.C., where she shared her early experiences in the architecture profession.

Interning at West Work was my first experience into the context of architecture  beyond the studios from school. Since I joined the firm, I felt welcomed and was given the opportunity to work on a diverse range of tasks that involve materials research, graphic design, energy modeling, and sustainability research projects, providing me with a taste of a broad and practical understanding of this field. My experience at West Work was precious as I attended the AIAS Grassroots conference in Washington D.C.. The skills I developed- connecting, communicating, and collaborating with others, proved essential as I engaged with other architecture students from across the country.

Attending the AIAS Grassroots conference was a transformative experience that inspired and broadened my perspective on the impression I can make within my community here in Boston. This newfound transparency stemmed from my work at West Work, where I learned firsthand about the importance of Affordable and Sustainable Multi-Family housing projects. I saw how these initiatives not only address critical community needs but also demonstrate the significant role that design can play in improving living conditions and fostering sustainable development. Speakers like the 2024 AIA President, Kimberly Dowdell, President of homeless housing service Friendship Place, Jean-Michel Giraud, and Managing Director of social network YIMBY (“Yes In My Back Yard”), were also key in exemplifying the impact of the resources Grassroots and AIAS provide us with, when highlighting our possible impact and future designers and leaders.

One of the most affecting moments of the conference was participating in the Women in Architecture panel, led by accomplished figures, Terry Bitar, Milan Jordan, Danielle Lake, and keynote speaker Sarika Bajoria. This discussion underscored the vital importance of supporting and working within certified Women-Owned Business Enterprises (WBEs), like West Work. As a first-generation female in STEM, this experience highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the field. It reinforced my commitment to advocating for diversity and inclusion within architecture, and emphasized how my own career path can contribute to broader efforts to empower underrepresented voices in the industry. Overall, the conference deepened my understanding of how architecture can serve as a powerful tool for social change and solidified my resolve to make a meaningful impact through my work.