We recently connected with Pascale Sablan and have shared our conversation below.

Pascale, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is the creation of the SAY IT LOUD exhibitions and movement. It was born out of a deep recognition of the lack of representation and opportunities for diverse designers, architects, and advocates in the industry. As Maya Angelou once said, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Inspired by this powerful notion of limitless creativity and the transformative power of elevating others, I embarked on a journey to provide a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and celebrated.

The backstory behind SAY IT LOUD is rooted in a desire to challenge the status quo and reshape the narrative of what is possible in the design world. I wanted to create a space where diverse designers could showcase their work, share their stories, and inspire future generations. It started with a simple idea but quickly gained momentum as more individuals and organizations rallied behind the cause.

Throughout the journey, we have curated and organized a total of 37 SAY IT LOUD exhibitions, elevating the work of 972 diverse designers globally. Each exhibition has had a profound impact, expanding awareness and fostering meaningful connections within the design community. With each new exhibition, the reach and influence of the movement continue to grow.

Seeing the transformative impact of SAY IT LOUD has been truly remarkable. I’ve witnessed the empowerment and recognition it has brought to the designers involved. It has sparked important conversations about representation, equity, and inclusion in the design industry. SAY IT LOUD has created a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about driving change.

This project is deeply meaningful to me because it represents a step towards a more inclusive and equitable future. It embodies the belief that diversity is not just a buzzword but a fundamental principle that should be embraced and celebrated. SAY IT LOUD is a testament to the power of collaboration, advocacy, and the resilience of those who have been historically marginalized. It is a constant reminder of the transformative impact that can be achieved when we amplify underrepresented voices and provide them with the platform they deserve.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hello everyone, I’m Pascale Sablan, an architect, the global President of the National Organization of Minority Architects and the founder of Beyond the Build Environment (BBE). As the 315th living African-American woman registered architect in the United States, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and disparities faced by underrepresented individuals in the design industry. This personal experience fuels my commitment to advocacy and drives the mission of BBE.”

At BBE, we celebrate the contributions of diverse designers and advocate for equitable built environments and communities. Through our curated exhibitions, we have elevated the work of 972 diverse designers globally, with a growing impact through each new exhibition. Our platform serves as a catalyst for empowering underrepresented voices and promoting inclusivity.

We provide a range of products and services that amplify our mission of representation and empowerment. Our online store offers a diverse collection of merchandise, including T-shirts, mugs, and pins, featuring positive and affirming messaging. By connecting with society members outside the design industry, we expand our reach and impact.

What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. We go beyond the traditional boundaries of the design industry by embracing collaboration, advocacy, and meaningful programming. Our work is driven by the belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities and recognition in the built environment.

I am most proud of the impact BBE has made in showcasing diverse talents and creating spaces for dialogue and change. Through our exhibitions, products, and advocacy efforts, we aim to challenge the status quo and inspire others to join us in creating a more inclusive world.

I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that BBE is more than just a brand. We are a movement, a platform for change, and a community of diverse voices. Together, we are redefining the narrative of the design industry and shaping a future that celebrates inclusivity, empowerment, and representation.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about BBE and our mission. We look forward to connecting, collaborating, and making a positive impact together.”

Have you ever had to pivot?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many organizations, we faced unprecedented challenges. Our plans for in-person exhibitions and events were disrupted, requiring us to quickly adapt and pivot our approach. Recognizing the importance of staying connected and continuing our mission, we swiftly transitioned our activities to virtual platforms. We launched online exhibitions, webinars, and digital content to engage our community and amplify the voices of diverse designers. Despite the obstacles, this period allowed us to make incredible progress and expand our reach, connecting with individuals globally and fostering a stronger sense of community. It was a testament to our resilience and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the design industry

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Resilience has been a guiding force in my journey, particularly in the face of adversity. I vividly remember a challenging moment during my early days in architecture school at Pratt Institute. In front of a large class, a professor singled me and another student out, telling us that we would never become architects because of our race and gender. Although hurt by these discriminatory remarks, I refused to let them define me. Instead, I channeled my resilience and determination to prove my capabilities. I embraced the role of an advocate, recognizing that my actions would not only impact my own path but also shape the perceptions of women and diverse designers. This experience ignited my passion for promoting inclusivity and became a driving force behind my advocacy work. Today, I share my story and encourage others to stand up against bias and discrimination. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive industry for all.    

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beyondthebuilt.com | https://www.pascalesablan.com
• Instagram: @pascalesablan @beyondthebuilt
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pascale-sablan-faia-noma-leed-ap-a0331979

Image Credits
Headshot | Credit: Stanley Jordan Image one – SIL(er)-Ohio – Kent State | Credit: Kent State University Image two – SIL- United Nations | Credit: United Nations, Image three – SIL(er) – Knowlton School | Credit: The Ohio State University Image four – SIL-NM – Australia | Credit: Bonn Creative Image five – SIL-NY | Credit: Cameron Blaylock Image six – Me in the Pratt Classroom | Credit: Pascale Sablan Image seven – Cleveland Community engagement | Credit: Cleveland Foundation Image eight – SIL-Nebraska | Credit: Cleveland Foundation | RDG Planning and Design and T Grady