Ann de Graft-Johnson
My career journey
My career spans over 40 years, first in practice and then in academia. I am an architect by profession. I have been at UWE Bristol for 26 years as a senior lecturer.
My experience as a member of Matrix Feminist Architects, a cooperative, has informed my pedagogy and other work at UWE Bristol. Matrix was nominated for the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) for the RIBA Royal Gold medal in 2020. Its primary goal was to work with communities who had little or no influence traditionally over decision making in relation to the built environment.
I brought this aspect and a commitment to inclusive practice when I came to UWE Bristol. I have continued to try and influence UWE Bristol to change the paradigm and move to a more equitable culture evidenced by outcomes and experiences.
My research interests
My research interests align with my equalities, inclusion and participation work, particularly in relation to gender, race, culture and disability. My joint and individual published work continues to be referenced regularly by academics in the UK and abroad.
I have been involved in work to decolonise the architectural curriculum and introduce a globally and culturally inclusive learning environment. Architectural teaching has largely been delivered through a white male western lens. An important part of my work has been as a joint module leader on a live project module, where MArch students work with real, diverse clients and communities.
As part of my wider activity, I chair Race Equality Chartermark panels and am a panellist on Athena Swan Chartermark submissions as well as on the UWE Bristol Athena Swan Steering group.
I am currently working on a chapter addressing environmental justice and social sustainability to develop a culturally inclusive design studio with colleagues.
Challenges of working in academia
I think my main challenge has been to influence UWE Bristol as a whole but also within my college in moving forwards in developing an equity framework, particularly with regard to race.
My motivation in applying to be on the 100 Black Women Professors NOW (100BWPN) programme in part has been to try and increase the influence I have in promoting a genuinely inclusive ethos.
Being a Black female in higher education can be a precarious affair. The message many of us have is that you have to work at least twice as hard to survive.
"Being a Black female in higher education can be a precarious affair. And the message many of us have is that you have to work at least twice as hard to survive."
Ann de Graft-Johnson Senior Lecturer in Architecture and Planning, UWE Bristol
Attending the 100 Black Women Professors NOW programme
Through 100 BWPN I have been offered the opportunity to receive valuable guidance and support, which has helped crystalise my objectives.
It has been an honour to meet so many incredible Black female academics as part of the journey.
My message to university colleagues
Engaging with and embracing anti racism leads to more informed, knowledgeable environments, cultures and structures.
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