TheFulcrum.Agency co-founder Emma Williamson has been awarded the 2023 Paula Whitman Leadership in Gender Equity Prize on International Women’s Day.
Williamson, who is also a West Australian Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, was recognised by the national prize for her commitment to social issues, practical work to overcome inequities and contribution to the industry.
“Her contribution to our profession embodies the very definition of this prize. Throughout her career, Williamson has advocated for gender equity and diversity, educating the profession on our ethical responsibilities and moral obligations,” said the jury.
“She has also demonstrated the value of this advocacy through a more relevant model of practice that builds on these core values.”
The 2023 jury comprised, Tony Giannone, past national president, Australian Institute of Architects; Marika Neustupny, co-chair at National Committee for Gender Equity; Professor Julie Willis, representative from Parlour; Tiffany Liew, EmAGN president at Australian Institute of Architects; Nicole Mesquita-Mendes, SONA president, Australian Institute of Architects.
The Paula Whitman Leadership in Gender Equity Prize was established to recognise leadership and outstanding contribution of a member of the Australian Institute of Architects.
The prize is named for the late Paula Whitman, Queensland architect and university professor, who studied women in architecture.
Having worked in gender advocacy roles for over a decade, Williamson was also the inaugural Chair of the Institute’s National Committee for Gender Equity and has pushed for greater work-life balance in the profession.
“Williamson’s reflections on the imbalance and inequities apparent on social and business fronts have resonated both inside and outside of our profession,” the jury added.
“At the same time, they have empowered an intergenerational discourse that encourages equity in all aspects of what we do.”
