Sharing the journey of Daniela Silva, the Founder of ArLA and a Chilean Architect who achieved registration in NSW through the APE 2023 process.
Daniela Silva - Chilean Architect (ARB NSW) living in Sydney
"Trust the process and get to know yourself first before selling yourself to the industry. "
Tell us about your Migration Process and how you adjusted to the new culture
I arrived in Australia by myself in 2014, with absolutely zero knowledge of English. I started with a student visa to learn the language and then extended it with a Work and Holiday visa. The most challenging thing initially was moving to different places every 2-3 months due to various circumstances and struggling to find a job. I believe that time alone made me grow and adjust to the new culture. Although I experienced a long period of homesickness, the more I travelled back home, the more I realised that I belonged more to Australia.
What Challenges did you face initially and how did you overcome them?
The main challenge was the language barrier. I took an advanced Cambridge English course, which significantly improved my skills, but it took many years for me to express myself with the same personality I have in Spanish. After numerous years of real-life exposure to the language, it took about six years for me to feel fully comfortable in English. My husband played a crucial role in this journey, assisting me in expanding my vocabulary and refining my speaking and writing skills. Although I still struggle to answer the phone, uncertain of the accent on the other side of the line, and sometimes find spelling unfamiliar names challenging, I am actively working on overcoming these obstacles.
How has your Experience working in architecture in Australia compared to your home country?
I had never worked in an architectural firm in Chile, and that worked against me for a long time. It wasn't until the right company saw my profile that I realised all my experience was valuable.
Have you noticed significant Differences in Design approaches or the architectural industry in general?
I come from an earthquake-prone country, so we typically begin designs from a structural standpoint using grids. Here, the approach is less rigid, especially in residential projects. I have noticed a greater interest in energy-efficient designs here, as well as consideration for landscaping and storm water drainage. Additionally, there is adherence to regulations aimed at preventing the impact of bushfires.
How does your Cultural Experience influence your daily work as an architect in Australia?
Latin women are well known for being passionate, and I believe that trait is evident in any role I have performed. I enjoy adding that extra touch and improving processes whenever possible. I am also very self-driven and take pride in my work, which I believe is noticeable in the results I deliver.
How has your experience in Australia influenced your professional development as an architect?
My experience as an architect has been one of significant growth both personally and professionally. I have faced challenges and sought stability, which has been fundamental to my development. Continuing to learn and grow in my career has been a constant motivation that has guided my time and efforts here in Australia.
Have you found it helpful to engage in local Professional Networks in Australia? How has your professional network influenced job opportunities or collaborative projects?
I never realised this until I founded ArLA. It was precisely because I recognised the importance of building a professional network, not only to assist during job search periods but also to have support in facing various challenges in the roles I have performed.
Are there Resources or networks that you have found particularly useful in your own professional journey?
I navigated the industry pretty blindly until last year, learning only what was specifically needed for my role and doing my best to improve my English. I believe that was a significant disadvantage, but I was working with a very rusty second language. It wasn't until last year, when I completed my skills assessment and went through the registration process with PARC, that I could connect all those puzzle pieces scattered in my head. This made me much more aware of all the processes involved in every project.
What was the process of recognising your Overseas Qualifications in Australia like? Did you face challenges in this aspect?
The biggest challenge was reliving the university years, feeling evaluated again, and facing the fear of not being good enough. I wouldn't have been able to start the process if it weren't for the help I received from my coach and mentor. We are our worst critics, and the skills assessment was quite an emotional journey, especially because my experience isn't the most traditional, and I always thought that it would have played against me again in this process as it did in the job search. Having a successful outcome made me more confident and also enabled me to encourage other colleagues in similar situations.
What Motivated you to register as an architect in Australia?
Mainly setting the example since I'm leading ArLA, and dispelling the myth that it was impossible to become registered with a Latin American qualification.
What Advice would you give to other migrants looking to establish themselves and work in the field of architecture in Australia?
Trust the process and get to know yourself first before selling yourself to the industry. Understanding yourself will also enable you to quickly determine whether you align with the company you're trying to join.
👩💼 Thank you Daniela for this interview! Lets connect on Linkedin.
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