America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

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

Name: Sydnee “Sin” Henry 

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

Educational Status: B.S. Arch Class of 2019 Georgia Institute of Technology,  MArch Class of 2023 Georgia Institute of Technology

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

I would describe it as trying but worth it.

Why do you want to get your licensed?

Because there are so few licensed black women architects that I was to add to that number and be an inspiration for black women who will come after me. Cliche I know. It’s also been a goal for so long, it’s kinda like I’m on auto pilot to reach it.

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My little Sister Raigan! She’s only 11 and already the smartest person I know! I want to make sure she doesn’t have to struggle the way I did since I was the first born and had to figure everything out myself! This is a journey so that my family will want for nothing. I have been blessed with a large and supportive village and I cannot wait to make their lives better. 

How important is representation? 

Representation is knowing that I am capable of anything. There are few people who can dream it without seeing it. If they do not have someone who looks like them they are not capable of seeing themselves doing things that are predominately white. Our people want to be superhero’s because of black panther, or writers because of Toni Morrison, princesses because of Tiana. There is so much more out there open to them that they would not be aware of because they did not see someone who looks like them do it first! So for those of us who can dream it without seeing it…. We have to pave the way and open their eyes to the possibilities.

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

‘Master of my Fate, Captain of my soul” from Invictus.. I have it tatted on my right wrist/forearm… Every time I write, draw, create I see it and it is a reminder that I can do all that I put my mind to because my fate is mine and mine alone. No one decides it for me.