Following last years event about maternity, paternity leaves and return to work, Women in Architecture UK and RIBA partnered up this year to bring back the Parents Community Event. The purpose of this event was exploring the experience of architects -mothers and fathers- 'juggling' the responsibilities at work and at home and the impact on their careers.

The panel shared personal experiences of dealing with the responsibilities of high demanding jobs, childcare, the work patterns developed and the balance of tasks between mothers and fathers. Flexible working arrangements for parents with babies or children of varying ages as well as shared parental leave were also key topics.

We are grateful for having such an insightful conversation, masterfully chaired by Judith Topley, Director Jo Cowen Architects, Assoc CIPD, Enterprise Advisor Central London Careers Hub and the contribution of an amazing group of the speakers: Naomi Sakamoto, AIA Sakamoto, Principal, Gensler , Katia Polidoro, Principal Director, tp Bennett, Mario Barrientos Moral, Senior Associate, Morris & Co., Dan Carter, Head of Design, United Living Group, Sophie McCarthy, Design Director, Atomik Architecture, Matt Waddelow, Associate, Shed KM

The audience also had their say, answering live the following questions via slido:

-What are the current mat/pat/shared parental policies available at your practice?

-Returning to your work after parental leave – what was your experience?

-What has really helped you navigate juggling your responsibilities, policy or otherwise?

We still have a long way to go, but creating balance between mothers and fathers responsibilities, is one of the key cultural shifts to progress.

Thanks to all the attendees for your answers!

The event was curated by WIA committee Annie Cosentino, Rachael Davidson and Maria Loreto Flores in partnership with the RIBA's team, Robbie Turner, Lienkie Diedericks, PhD, Abigail MacDougall, Nell Brown and and our wonderful media partner You See Media, that registered the event.

Thanks as well to Madeleine Hobern and Tarryn Leeferink for the social media production for the event.

The video of the session will be available soon!

(Images by You See Media)