Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast

Hosted by Immigrant Architects Coalition

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Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast explores immigrant architects and designers' unique experiences and perspectives. Join us as we delve into the topics that matter most to this dynamic community, including career success, business ownership, immigration laws, and mentorship. Our guests come from diverse backgrounds and share their stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success in the field of architecture and design. Whether you're a newcomer to the industry or a seasoned professional, our podcast offers valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories to help you navigate your career as an immigrant architect or designer.

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39 recent

October 7, 2026Episode 3949 min

A Journey of Resilience with Helena Ariza, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C

Helena Ariza is a licensed architect in New York and Spain, originally from Barcelona. As Vice President at AEI Consultants, she leads the Sustainability & Resilience Divisions, helping clients navigate climate risk through ESG strategies, Property Resilience Assessments, and FORTIFIED evaluations. Her career began in Barcelona’s public sector, where her passion for sustainable design first took root. She earned a postgraduate degree in Architectural Restoration and specialized in energy efficiency for social housing. Since moving to New York in 2015, Helena has blended her European perspective with deep technical expertise in façade design and energy code compliance. She is known for her thoughtful, forward looking approach to resilience and her commitment to innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the built environment. As a member of ASTM International, Helena contributes to task groups focused on the ASTM E3429 24 Standard Guide for Property Resilience Assessments and ESG Disclosure Standards. She is also a frequent speaker on resilience and climate risk, presenting at organizations such as ULI, NIBS, ASCE, and Climate Week NYC, among others. 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

July 24, 2026Episode 3843 min

Licensing Series with Alexis Elias, AIA, NCARB, NCIDQ, licensed in Florida & Mexico

Alexis Elias is a Florida Registered Architect, NCARB-certified professional, and Licensed Interior Designer with over 25 years of experience in architecture, interior design, and real estate development. He is Principal and Partner at Elias Elias, an internationally award-winning architecture and interior design firm founded over 50 years ago, with offices in Miami, Florida and Guadalajara, Mexico, specializing in luxury hospitality and high-end residential design. Under his leadership, the firm has delivered more landmark projects across the United States, and Mexico, including luxury resorts, branded hotels for internationally recognized chains, high-end residences, and commercial developments. The firm's U.S. practice includes interior design for distinguished residential projects in Miami, New York, Aspen, Texas, and Tampa, as well as commercial interiors for multi-tower developments. With his recent Florida architecture license, Alexis has expanded the firm's U.S. offerings to include full architectural services. Beyond design, Alexis is Managing Partner at One Management Partners, a real estate investment firm focused on multifamily income-producing properties in Florida, where he brings his architectural expertise to investment strategy and asset management. In 2021, Alexis was selected as the expert design judge for the first season of *Hogar Star* on HGTV en Español. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the American Society of Interior Designers. He is also a songwriter and recording artist, having released his debut EP, *Sin Fecha de Caducidad*, in 2025. Alexis holds a Bachelor of Architecture with Honors from Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City. 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 #IACTalks Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn

June 30, 2026Episode 3751 min

Rooted in Purpose with Katherine Serrano Sosa, AIA, NCARB

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #37: Rooted In Purpose with Katherine Serrano Sosa, AIA, NCARB Katherine is an award-winning Latina architect, licensed in NY and NJ, and founder of Rooted Architecture Studio, dedicated to inclusive, wellness-focused design tailored to each client's unique story and needs. Born in El Salvador, she immigrated to the U.S. at age seven and, inspired by her family's background in construction, set her sights on architecture by age 11. Graduating in the top three of her high school class, she earned a full scholarship to Macaulay Honors College at City College of New York, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor's in Architecture in 2016. By 2019, she had achieved licensure, placing her among the 2.5% of Latina licensed architects in the U.S. This milestone deepened her commitment to mentoring and empowering the next generation of Latina architects through organizations such as Arquitina. In July 2021, Katherine launched Rooted Architecture Studio with a mission to design environments for wellness and belonging. Her work spans commercial, mixed-use, community, and residential projects, always centering the human experience through sensory-friendly and culturally inclusive design. She has spoken at Harvard, Princeton, and the AIA National Convention on topics including firm ownership, accessible design, and building spaces that support whole-person wellness. Katherine serves on the Advisory Board of Girls Inc Long Island and participates in the AIA Long Island Women in Architecture Committee. She also educates the public through social media, webinars, and live events. Her 2024 and 2025 accolades include the AIA NYS Young Architect Award, Top 50 Women in Business, Small Businesswoman of the Year, Rising Star in Architecture, and 40 Under 40. 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 #IACTalks Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn

June 7, 2026Episode 3657 min

Design & Leadership Without Borders, with Vivian Lee, FAIA

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #36: Design & Leadership Without Borders, with Vivian Lee, FAIA From her early life in Taiwan and Paraguay to her professional practice across Italy, China, and the U.S., Vivian's work is influenced by a boundless collection of cultures, histories, and consciousness. Enriched by her experience of living and practicing in different countries, her architecture is efficient and poetic, technologically advanced, environmentally conscious, and engagingly humanistic. With an extensive background leading award-winning projects of all types and scales, Vivian brings over 30 years of creative passion to Gensler as a Design Principal. Driven by the belief that good design can and should inspire, she encourages the team to balance creative vision with practical solutions to deliver value to clients and end users. Vivian’s design and leadership in the architecture profession led to her elevation to the distinguished American Institute of Architects College of Fellows in 2020. She served on the AIA New York Board of Directors and co-chaired the Women in Architecture Committee to promote, elevate, and advance women in the industry. In 2026, the AIA bestowed its highest service honor, the Edward C. Kemper Award, upon Vivian Lee, FAIA, for her significant contributions through steadfast commitment to the organization. Her profound influence as a mentor and tireless advocacy for equity, diversity, and inclusion have reshaped the architectural landscape for the better 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

May 23, 2026Episode 3542 min

IAC Path to Licensure Scholarship for Designers Sponsor, Jaqueline Velez, AIA

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #35: IAC Path to Licensure Scholarship for Designers Sponsor, Jaqueline Velez, AIA Jacqueline began her career working at architectural studios specializing in new building designs in the rapidly developing Long Island City. As a New York City Expediter, she gained extensive experience in building codes and zoning consulting, giving her a competitive edge. This expertise equipped her with the knowledge, leverage, and confidence to establish her own practice. In the summer of 1992, Jacqueline founded JMV Associates, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in building code reviews, zoning analysis, and expediting services. After becoming a Registered Architect, she established JMV Architect, PLLC, an award-winning architectural firm dedicated to designing projects for both the public and private sectors. She remains actively involved in all phases of design, from initial concept through construction administration, overseeing new buildings, major renovations, and adaptive reuse projects. For 15 years, Jacqueline served as a Trustee and Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee for The Kew-Forest School, where she played a key role in shaping the institution’s architectural and infrastructural developments. She is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of architects, serving as a host for high school internship programs, including the CTE Program at Bayside High School and the School Construction Authority Summer Internship. From 2023 to 2024, Jacqueline served as President of the AIA Queens Chapter. She currently serves as VP of Education for AIANYS Board. Additionally, she is a board member of the Floral Park Village Architectural Review Board and serves on the Advisory Board for the NYIT School of Architecture. She is also a mentor for Arquitina, a professional organization that supports Latinas in obtaining their Registered Architect license. Jacqueline’s foundation is built on a commitment to community service and advocacy for the architectural profession. She is passionate about inspiring students to pursue careers in architecture and takes pride in creating and reshaping spaces that enhance the quality of life for their occupants. When she is not designing, Jacqueline enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and traveling. 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

April 28, 2026Episode 3442 min

Transition from Civil Engineering to Architecture with Andrea Ceglia, Assoc. AIA

Andrea Ceglia, Assoc. AIA, was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and spent much of her childhood living throughout the Caribbean, including Aruba, Belize, and Antigua. She later returned to Caracas to complete high school and begin her university education. After two years of study in Venezuela, she transferred to New Jersey, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Andrea built an eight-year career in the engineering and construction industry, contributing to a diverse range of projects, including single-family residential developments in Antigua, the Volcano Bay Water Park in Orlando, and intelligent transportation infrastructure projects throughout South Florida. Driven by a passion for design and the built environment, she later transitioned into architecture and pursued a three-year Master of Architecture degree, graduating in May 2024. She currently works at an architecture firm in South Florida and is actively pursuing architectural licensure. 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

April 10, 2026Episode 3339 min

From Madurai to San Francisco: A Design Journey Written in Resilience with Madhubala Ayyamperumal, Assoc. AIA

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #33: From Madurai to San Francisco: A Design Journey Written in Resilience with Madhubala Ayyamperumal, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, NOMA Madhubala Ayyamperumal is a San Francisco–based Senior Designer, mentor, and advocate for socially and environmentally responsible architecture. Originally from India, she began her career in Dubai before moving to the United States on a student visa, navigating financial constraints and a competitive academic path. She earned dual master’s degrees in Architecture and Engineering from Pennsylvania State University with full funding and received the Henry Adams Medal and AIA Certificate of Merit. Madhu brings a cross-cultural perspective to projects spanning Workplace, Hospitality, Residential, Mixed-Use, Healthcare, Life Sciences, and Tenant Improvement. She has contributed to impactful work at firms including Gensler, STUDIOS, and SM+D, blending multidisciplinary expertise with a strong emphasis on sustainability, wellness, and the emotional experience of architecture. A committed mentor and advocate, she is active with ACE Mentorship and SFNOMA. She founded AIA Silicon Valley’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program and serves on the boards of AIA Silicon Valley and AIA California, advancing leadership development for emerging professionals. 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

March 28, 2026Episode 3237 min

IAC 2025 Student Scholarship Winner Dana Goodridge

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #32: IAC Student Scholarship Winner Dana Goodridge Dana Goodridge is a Master of Architecture student at Howard University, graduating in May 2026. She is passionate about healthcare design and community development, aiming to enhance well-being through thoughtful, inclusive architecture that promotes healing, dignity, and cultural identity. “This scholarship eases financial stress and allows me to focus fully on my thesis, which explores climate resilience and healthcare architecture. Long-term, I hope to lead interdisciplinary projects that reimagine healthcare spaces in the Caribbean spaces that reflect cultural identity, promote healing, and respond to environmental realities.” 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 #IACTalks Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn

February 24, 2026Episode 3148 min

From Worker to Registered Architect: Redefining the Path with Cindy Maleike, AIA

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #31: From Worker to Registered Architect: Redefining the Path with Cindy Maleike, AIA Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Cindy was raised by her grandparents and father. At 19, she immigrated to the United States with her sisters, following her mother’s dream of greater opportunities. Like many immigrants, she adapted to a new culture while working various jobs—including in a flower shop, babysitting, and house cleaning—before discovering her passion for architecture as an administrative assistant for a contractor in New York City, where she was part of the team that rebuilt One World Trade Center (Tower 1). This experience inspired her to pursue an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Technology at SUNY Orange Community College in NYS. During her studies, she worked as a draftsperson under a professor who became her mentor. Encouraged by his guidance, she chose to pursue architectural licensure in New York State as a non-traditional candidate. While raising a family and working full-time in her 30s, she completed her NCARB AXP hours and passed all divisions of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) by March 2024. In summer 2025, she fulfilled the remaining professional requirements and, on August 5, 2025, became a Registered Architect in the State of New York. With experience in residential, commercial, and K–12 educational design, she is committed to advancing the profession through mentorship and advocacy. She currently volunteers with the AIA Westchester–Hudson Valley Chapter as a member of the Emerging Professionals Committee and Co-Chair of Latinos in Architecture, serves on the SUNY Orange Association Board, teaches financial literacy with Junior Achievement of New York, and mentors emerging professionals through the Immigrant Architects Coalition and Arquitina—promoting diversity, inclusion, and expanded opportunity within the field of architecture. 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 #IACTalks Thanks for Listening! Visit our website https://www.immigrantarchitects.org and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn

January 26, 2026Episode 3043 min

Work Life Balance - Setting boundaries for a healthy lifestyle and business ownership with Melissa Cheing, AIA, LEED GA, Well AP, NOMA

🎙️ Listen to the IAC Podcast Episode #30: Work Life Balance - Setting boundaries for a healthy lifestyle and business ownership with Melissa Cheing, AIA, LEED GA, Well AP, NOMA Melissa Carolina Cheing was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and moved to Ecuador with her family at the age of four. She grew up in Guayaquil, where she earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil (UCSG). At 27, Melissa relocated to New York City to continue her education and received a Master of Science in Sustainability from The City College of New York. During her graduate studies, she was awarded the Bernard and Anne Spitzer Scholarship in recognition of outstanding academic achievement. She obtained her architectural license in the State of New York in 2021. Melissa began her architectural career in New York City in 2011, where she discovered her passion for integrating architecture and interior design. Over the course of more than 12 years at her previous firm, she advanced to the role of Design Director, leading the design and delivery of over 100 projects totaling more than 1,000,000 square feet of commercial space across New York City. Her work served both landlords and tenants and spanned a wide range of commercial interior environments. In 2023, Melissa founded MCC Architecture, a practice focused on commercial interior projects in New York City. Drawing on her extensive experience and long-standing client relationships, she established the firm to deliver thoughtful, client-centered design and to pursue her professional vision with greater autonomy. 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