America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

Hi readers! It’s #FutureArchitectFriday. A day to celebrate those pushing themselves to becoming licensed architects.

Name: Sidpasamde Astride Helena Tiendrebeogo

Hometown: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso 

Educational Status: 3rd year BArch

How would you describe your experience as a Black Architecture student?

I wouldn’t necessarily call my experience lonely but for lack of better words that is what it is. It is difficult to not have anyone I can relate to because I am the only Black African woman in all of my classes. It is however great to be able to one day pave the way for someone like me and serve as a source of support for my peers and maybe one day mentor people with experiences similar to my own. I know that I will have to break a lot of barriers which puts quite a but of pressure on me, but it also serves as a drive to keep working as hard as I can.

Why do you want to get your licensed?

I love architecture and one of the ways I see myself exploring my passions is to be a licensed architect, which means I can work for myself and pursue my education.

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My future, and younger selves are my biggest inspirations and influences. I see who I want to be and that reminds me to work harder to become that person. She influences me to make the best choices for myself and push to my hardest and my younger self reminds me of my morals and why I chose the path I continue to choose.

How important is representation? 

I think it is quite important to be able to see a bit of yourself everywhere to remember it is all attainable, but I also subscribe to the philosophy that I will have to become my own representation in many of the circles I plan to enter.

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

“you have to really believe not only in yourself; you have to believe that the world is actually worth your sacrifices” Zaha Hadid