International Women’s Day 2022 | Akiko Yoshikawa

Next up in our International Women’s Day series, we have Senior Associate & Project Manager, Akiko Yoshikawa.

Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is described as a global day to honor the economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Historically women’s achievements have often gone uncredited and are often undervalued. International Women’s Day helps shed light on biases that exist and creates a call to action to eliminate them. It is especially important for girls and young women to know that the obstacles they may face should not define who they can become and to know that their achievements matter.

What do you think is the biggest issue today facing women of your age?
I don’t know if I can name the biggest issue, but many of the issues women face can be tackled by having more women in powerful positions making decisions.

Why do we need more women in leadership?
Women bring different skills than men to the workplace and those skills are critical for the success of the business. Women rally teams, bring different perspectives and tend to be strong organizers/managers of work and people.

The power of role models cannot be overlooked, especially for young women just entering the workforce.

Women still make much less than men for the same or higher work – women make 82% of what men make. More women in leadership can help close the gender wage gap.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to a similar career path?
Strive to be a good architect, not a good woman architect.

What’s your favorite/most rewarding part of your work?
For me, it’s when a building is complete and is inhabited by its users. It is the culmination of what is often a huge effort by many people. I believe in the power of a team made up of diverse people who each bring their strengths and unique perspective to the table.