Sharing the journey of Iara Romo, a Argentinian Architect who achieved registration in NSW.
Iara Romo - Argentinian Architect (ARB NSW) living in Sydney.
"Surround yourself with people who share your passion and are going through similar processes. "
Tell us about your Migration Process and how you adjusted to the new culture
Upon completing my studies in Architecture in August 2016, I had the adventurous idea of moving overseas in search of new life experiences and relocated from Argentina to Australia in December of the same year. Initially driven by a keen interest in exploring the country's multicultural environment and learning a second language, I enrolled in a six-month English course with the intention of returning home afterwards. However, after completing the course in 2018, I became inspired by Australian architecture. Motivated by both personal and professional aspirations, I eagerly pursued employment opportunities within the architectural industry to further expand my knowledge and skills.
What Challenges did you face initially and how did you overcome them?
Securing employment was the most significant challenge I faced upon my arrival in Australia. I arrived during a period when most casual jobs had already been filled for the season, which, combined with the restrictions of my working visa and the demanding schedule of my English classes, made finding work particularly difficult. These factors contributed to a challenging first year as I tried to establish myself in a new city. However, I gradually overcame these obstacles through perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to my long-term goals.
How has your Experience working in architecture in Australia compared to your home country?
Based on my limited experience in Argentina, I've observed a distinct difference in how roles within the construction industry are structured compared to Australia. In Argentina, professionals often wear multiple hats, with architects frequently involved in interior design, landscaping, and other related fields. This broad scope is often seen as an advantage, allowing professionals to have a well-rounded understanding of various aspects of a project.
However, in Australia, the roles within the construction industry are more clearly defined. Architects focus specifically on architecture, while specialised professionals handle other aspects such as interior design, landscaping, and urban planning. In my current workplace, for example, we have dedicated teams for architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, and interior design, each focusing strictly on their area of expertise. While we collaborate closely, the boundaries between roles are well-established, ensuring that each discipline brings its specialised knowledge to the table.
Have you noticed significant Differences in Design approaches or the architectural industry in general?
From my limited experience in Argentina, particularly in the places where I worked, I noticed that the design approach often focused on the interaction with adjacent buildings—considering factors such as materiality, heights, form, and their connection to the history of the place. There was a strong emphasis on ensuring that new structures harmonised with their surroundings, both aesthetically and functionally.
In Australia, while there is still attention to neighbouring buildings, I’ve observed that the design approach tends to prioritise the environment and the building's impact on it. This environmental focus influences many aspects of the design, emphasising sustainability and sensitivity to the natural context. Additionally, the design process in Australia often faces more limitations due to strict compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and Australian Standards (AS). These regulations significantly shape the design, sometimes limiting creative freedom but also ensuring safety, sustainability, and consistency across the built environment.
How does your Cultural Experience influence your daily work as an architect in Australia?
In Argentina, the design process often emphasises the relationship between new and existing structures, with a focus on how buildings interact with their urban context and historical surroundings. This has instilled in me a strong sense of contextual awareness, which I find complements the Australian focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
My cultural background encourages me to think deeply about the broader impact of architectural decisions—not just on the environment, but also on the community and the existing urban context. I carry with me the ability to think of projects both as an architect and as a potential user of the space I am designing. I believe that our own experiences in the world shape our design thinking process, allowing us to create spaces that are not only functional and sustainable but also resonate with the people who use them.
Are there specific Elements of your Culture that you incorporate or highlight in your projects?
Yes, there are specific elements of my culture that I incorporate into my projects. Coming from Argentina, I strongly emphasise the relationship between architecture and its context. I often draw inspiration from the history of the place and its surroundings, whether through materiality, scale, or form.
Another cultural element I bring into my work is the emphasis on social spaces. In Argentina, private, public, and communal spaces play a vital role in urban development. Spaces of different scales, uses, and users contribute to fostering a sense of community. These public or communal areas provide a sense of security, with spaces of varying hierarchies interacting with one another to offer "eyes" on the area.
Have you found that Cultural Diversity has enriched your projects or presented additional challenges?
Absolutely! The variety of perspectives from different cultural backgrounds can significantly enhance creativity and innovation. By bringing together diverse experiences and ideas, teams can develop more holistic and inclusive designs. This not only leads to more creative solutions but also ensures that spaces and projects are better suited to the needs and expectations of a wider range of users. Understanding how different communities interact with a space can also lead to more thoughtful and culturally responsive designs.
How has your experience in Australia influenced your professional development as an architect?
My experience in Australia has made me more resilient and persistent. I had to learn a new language before even starting to look for a job, which sometimes made me feel like I was falling behind my university mates in Argentina, who were already working in the industry. However, this challenge strengthened me mentally, especially when I had to go through the overseas qualification assessment and the registration process to become an architect in NSW. Both of these processes were tough and demanding, but with the right mindset and the support of people around me, I was able to overcome every obstacle. In the end, all the effort was rewarded.
Have you participated in specific professional development Programs for Migrants ?
No, I haven't.
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 haven't been very active in networking activities so far, but I’m aware of the many opportunities to connect with colleagues and other professionals in the industry. Networking can be especially impactful in fields like ours, where collaboration and referrals are key to securing projects. I did, however, land one job through a colleague I met at my first job in Australia. When she moved to another office years later, they were looking to fill a position, and she reached out to me via LinkedIn.
Are there Resources or networks that you have found particularly useful in your own professional journey?
There are plenty of accessible resources, many of which are available even to those not actively working in the industry. These can offer great opportunities to connect and stay informed about the latest trends. In my personal experience, due to the demands of work, I sometimes miss out on them. However, at my workplace, we have various resources, including CPD programs, which I always find incredibly helpful.
What was the process of recognising your Overseas Qualifications in Australia like? Did you face challenges in this aspect?
I completed the Overseas Qualification Assessment (OQA), which took almost a year from when I first began understanding the requirements to the final interview, where I received a positive result. The process was quite interesting; although I often found it frustrating, it ultimately felt worthwhile and deepened my understanding of day-to-day work. I completed it in 2023 during the initial round of the updated OQA version, with no prior references or successful candidates to consult. The challenges mainly involved grasping the requirements and crafting appropriate responses. It required extensive research and a lot of time to draft responses that aligned with the selected projects. I found several useful resources that helped me navigate the process.
What Motivated you to register as an architect in Australia?
I originally did not plan to get registered, as my primary focus was on visa matters. However, I started the OQA process to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) independently of my employer. After completing the OQA, I put the PR process on hold and decided to pursue registration, given my improved understanding of procurement, contracts, and other aspects.
I would not recommend tackling both processes one after the other, as it led to significant burnout for me. Both processes are extremely long, challenging, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. I was fortunate to have incredible support from people who reassured me when I felt like giving up.
What Advice would you give to other migrants looking to establish themselves and work in the field of architecture in Australia?
Take baby steps and remain consistent with your ultimate goal in mind. Sometimes, you may need to take a step back to make greater progress later. For me, this meant learning a new language and rebuilding my confidence before searching for a job. Prioritise the most important tasks first, and everything else will follow. Surround yourself with people who share your passion and are going through similar processes; having support during challenging times is invaluable. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone, and many skills and insights will come as you continue on your journey.
👩💼 Thank you Iara for this interview! Lets connect on Linkedin.
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