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In harmony with nature
In servitude of humanity

When designing any project, prioritizing the well-being of those who will be affected by it, as well as considering the impact on the natural surroundings, is always among our foremost concerns.

Designing for the People of South Florida

The Cocoon / El Capullito, presented at the United Nations Youth Panel in 2024, is an innovative project addressing the daily challenges pedestrians face in South Florida's hot and rainy weather.

MARIANA LORA

Founder & Director

VERDORA’s founder, Mariana Lora, traces her profound connection with nature back to her native country, Costa Rica. This early bond sparked a lifelong passion for the preservation of the environment. Mariana’s journey continued when she moved to South Florida and pursued studies in architecture at Florida International University.Her perspective on nature took a transformative turn after experiencing the impact of Hurricane Ian firsthand. This natural disaster provided invaluable insights into the formidable forces of nature and their profound influence on the built environment. Witnessing the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Ian served as a pivotal moment for Mariana, compelling her to explore alternative, biodegradable materials for her designs. Her goal was to create structures that could withstand the forces of nature while simultaneously preventing pollution.VERDORA’s mission is rooted in Mariana’s dedication to sustainable design and environmental protection. Through her work, she aims to develop structures that not only withstand nature's challenges but also serve as a safeguard for both people and the natural environment. This commitment reflects Mariana Lora's unwavering dedication to creating a harmonious balance between human activities and the preservation of the planet.

• MARIANA'S CV

PINUP-LESS

MMC, FIU

o₂Rg

Isla del Coco, C.R.

2023

Typology

GENETIC modification

Collaborator

shend bejkollari

SYNBIOSIS BETWEEN HOMO SAPIENS + NATURE

O₂Rg is an experimental organism created through the genetic modification of human and squid skin cells. This creature supports self-sufficient living, providing food, temperature regulation, and environmental adaptation for the living creatures inside it. It has capabilities of contracting and expanding, adapting its spaces based on what the humans are requiring at that time.

1909 theorem: Utopian Skyscrappers

VERTICAL NEIGHBORHOODS

Bringing the houses above ground, allow our neighborhoods to stay safe, get great views, and stay dry from sea level rise.

o₂Rg

Isla del Coco, C.R.

2023

Typology

GENETIC modification

Collaborator

shend bejkollari

SYNBIOSIS BETWEEN HOMO SAPIENS + NATURE

O₂Rg is an experimental organism created through the genetic modification of human and squid skin cells. This creature supports self-sufficient living, providing food, temperature regulation, and environmental adaptation for the living creatures inside it. It has capabilities of contracting and expanding, adapting its spaces based on what the humans are requiring at that time.

PORTABLE

Portable organism grows anywhere, reaching maturity within 12 hours of placement.

SENTIENT

Sentient organism responsive to individuals, supplying their needs through adaptive reactions.

SKIN CELL MANIPULATION

Latest tech manipulates skin cells to create a self-sufficient, inhabitable organism through biological manipulation.

SELF SUSTAINABLE

Island fauna thrives on nutrient-rich food self-produced by the emerging membrane.

ADAPTIVE REACTIONS

Organism thrives in symbiotic union with humans and nature.

TEXTURE EXPLOR-(CRE)ATION

HIDDEN PARADISE

To demonstrate its consciousness and sensitivity to a fragile ecosystem, O₂Rg was placed on Isla del Coco, a highly protected island in Costa Rica.

TEXTURE EXPLOR-(CRE)ATION

HIDDEN PARADISE

To demonstrate its consciousness and sensitivity to a fragile ecosystem, O₂Rg was placed on Isla del Coco, a highly protected island in Costa Rica.

LOCATION
SENSIBILITY

HIDDEN PARADISE

To demonstrate its consciousness and sensitivity to a fragile ecosystem, O₂Rg was placed on Isla del Coco, a highly protected island in Costa Rica.

LOCATION
SENSIBILITY

HIDDEN PARADISE

To demonstrate its consciousness and sensitivity to a fragile ecosystem, O₂Rg was placed on Isla del Coco, a highly protected island in Costa Rica.

THE CURTAIN

Harlem, NY.

2024

Typology

Jazz Club + HVAC Facility

Area

15803.68 ft²

BREAKING THROUGH

"We see it over and over, how the character of the cities and areas we love are getting lost to fast developmeent that rip away the history of the local architecture. We intend to preserve that identity."
— Mariana Lora.

DESIGN APPROACH

NY S vs. N

ACOUSTICS

Instead of contributing to the reflection of noise in the city, AROW absorbs it. This is achieved through material choices and its irregular surface shapes that reduce sound waves in the air.The irregular surfaces in music rooms and on the building's exterior diffuse and scatter sound, creating a softer and more even impression.

The seating arrangement for the auditorium is influenced by the annular theatre style, where seats encircle a central stage, allowing sound to travel uniformly throughout.

SHAPE

CUTS

TRIM

SEATS

AUDITORIUM

Auditorium Form

Annular Theatre

Quantity of Seats

231

Most Distant Seat

#'-#"

Surface Material

Oak (wood)

BREAKING THROUGH

"We see it over and over, how the character of the cities and areas we love are getting lost to fast developmeent that rip away the history of the local architecture. We intend to preserve that identity."
— Mariana Lora.
Arow ...

STRUCTURE

The project uses steel as a reference to the elegant steel members in the Riverside Drive Viaduct, located northwest of the site.This choice ensures the project's lasting presence, much like jazz has endured.

RIVERSIDE DRIVE VIADUCT

STEEL STRUCTURAL MEMBERS

FRAMING ROOF PLAN - L1

LIGHT

STEEL & GLASS DOME

STEEL & GLASS DOME

INTERIOR

HVAC

JAZZ HISTORICAL LANDMARKS

References

+ chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.engproguides.com/ruleofthumbcalculator.pdfAcoustics+ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXzZpAGLf3Y&t=551s
+ https://audiochamps.com/what-are-theatre-stage-floors-made-of/
+ Diccionario Visual de Arquitectura (libro)

SERPENTINE

Wynwood, FL.

2022

Typology

ART COMPLEX

IT SWALLOWED US IN

Serpentine's curving walls intrigue passersby, inviting them inside. The smooth interior path guides visitors through its spaces. The right side hosts social areas, while the left is dedicated to visual arts. An underground gallery zigzags through artworks, ending in an artist-only area. The landscape, shaped by the building's reflective facade, features winding pathways that offer shifting perspectives.

SKETCHES

AIR-LLIPSE

Miami, FL.

2024

Typology

HIGH RISE RESIDENCE

KEY COMPONENT

Flora & fauna restoration

Area

15803.68 ft²

GREEN SILENCE

The Ellipse stands as a pioneering endeavor to revive the verdant tropical hardwood hammocks that once thrived in Miami's urban center. This innovative project not only aims to reintegrate the native ecosystem but also to cultivate a dynamic communal hub. Combining residential living with ample community engagement areas, it offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. The design seamlessly integrates privacy for residents while fostering a sense of belonging and connection within the bustling downtown landscape.

Ecological restoration

At the heart of the Ellipse lies a commitment to native flora, with a diverse array of species carefully selected to mirror the natural biodiversity of the region. From the majestic Live Oak to the delicate Wild Cinnamon, each plant has been chosen to contribute to the restoration of this unique habitat. Moreover, by nurturing 15 endangered and 9 threatened species, the Ellipse demonstrates a profound dedication to conservation and environmental stewardship.

GROUND RESTORATION

Cooling effect for pedestrians walking by or seeking shade underneath the building.

GREEN COLUMNS

The building showcases innovative columns with integrated planter systems, allowing plants to thrive and intertwine, blending nature seamlessly into its architectural framework.

GREEN WALLS

The building's captivating green walls, functioning as living ecosystems, also facilitate a cooling effect throughout its open-air hallways.

SOLAR WINDOWS

Solar windows spanning the entire exterior facade harness renewable energy, ensuring the building's sustainability while reducing its environmental footprint.

OPENINGS

Openings between housing units facilitate airflow, mitigating wind impact, promoting cooling, and improving air quality.

Urban Living / Suburban Appeal

The high-rise residential building aims to replicate the serene and private ambiance of suburban living, featuring spacious, tranquil environments. It incorporates communal green spaces for socialization and relaxation while ensuring privacy between residential units through strategically placed spaces.

FLOOR COMPONENTS

Each component on every floor has been meticulously considered for efficiency, aiming to enhance residents' enjoyment of living in this residential high-rise building while fostering a sustainable habitat.

GROUND OPENINGS

The openings among floors function almost like pores, allowing wind and light to permeate throughout the building, creating a sense of openness and connectivity between the floors.

PLANT COOLING

Gardening components enable the growth of native plants, providing residents with the opportunity to enjoy the cooling effects as they stroll through the air-park.

CROSS VENTILATION

The spaces between residential units serve dual purposes: providing privacy and allowing air to flow through the buildings.

GROUND RESTORATION

Level 0

The square footage that would have been occupied by masses of concrete and rebar, along with private space for a limited number of individuals, has instead been repurposed to host a thriving ecosystem of native species. This initiative aims to restore the natural habitat that existed in this location several decades ago.

RESIDENTIAL LEVELS

LEVELS 1-10

Residential levels feature multiple units surrounding a central park, inviting residents to gather, stroll, and unwind amidst native flora.

AIR-PARKS

Green spaces integrated into residential levels emulate suburban environments, providing areas for relaxation, socialization, and well-being enhancement, fostering community engagement and improving residents' health through the presence of plants and trees that purify the air.

TAPPAS BOWL

2024

CLIENT / PROPERTY

TAPPAS, LLC.

Typology

PRODUCT

STATUS

COMPLETED

PATENT

PENDING

LAYERING MEMORIES

Sandra Portal, founder of Tappas, LLC. requested the development of her new collection, the Tappas Bowl. A sustainable bowl made of bamboo.We took her sketch and vision, and made it into a defined product.

FROM A SKETCH
TO A RENDERING

The Cocoon

2024

Typology

PUBLIC

PATENT

PENDING

Area / PODE

9 ft²

DYNAMIC TO CHANGE

Accommodating the diverse needs of individuals given Florida's fluctuating weather conditions, including high rains, intense sun, and heat, necessitated the creation of an Interactive pedestrian shelter, the Cocoon. This design ensures essential protection due to its adaptability. Its interactive features serve as a statement of our commitment to enhancing the daily life of pedestrians, reflecting a thoughtful consideration for the well-being of all users, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.

HOW IT STARTED

Using Bus Stop Shelters as our precedent, we were able to come to the conclusion that not enough effective protectionb from the sun, rain and heat is being provided in South Florida, and in many different areas, even internationally. This gap in a structure capable of adapting to the changing needs of pedestrians led us to develope the Cocoon.

LACKING EFFICIENCIES

The cocoon provides essential features to comfort you in your daily life.

+ Provides refuge from the Rain
+ Protects you from the Sun
+ Shelters you from the Heat
+ Lights you in darkness
+ Harnesses the power of the sun
+ Lets you see your surroundings
+ Allows breezes to cool you
+ Keeps your devices powered
+ Holds your things

WE TALKED WITH THE PEOPLE

CHRISTOPHER A. WILLIAMS & HIS DAUGHTER

“Thank you for trying to make a change for us.”
— Christopher A. Williams

more than 50 bus stop users interviewed

Interviewing more than 50 bus stop users aloowed us to understand the conditions they have to endure daily while waiting for the bus to come.

Listen to what they have to say

Format

VIDEO

Release Date

Nov. 4, 2023

DURATION

1 min.

A comprehensive survey conducted in South Florida, where we interviewed bus stop shelter users to shed light on the daily challenges they face while waiting for the bus. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the inefficiencies in bus stop shelter designs, highlighting issues such as a lack of protection from the scorching sun and heavy rain, inadequate ventilation, and overall uncomfortable conditions for commuters. The survey findings are a compelling call to action, highlighting the need for enhanced, commuter-friendly bus stop shelters in South Florida.

HELPING YOU & OTHERS

ONE STRUCTURE
MANY FUNCTIONS

The cocoon provides essential features to comfort you in your daily life.

+ Provides refuge from the Rain
+ Protects you from the Sun
+ Shelters you from the Heat
+ Lights you in darkness
+ Harnesses the power of the sun
+ Lets you see your surroundings
+ Allows breezes to cool you
+ Keeps your devices powered
+ Holds your things

IT GIVES YOU POWER

LITERALLY

Charging Station

PROTECTING EVERYONE

ACCESSIBLE
TO ALL

NO MATTER WHO NEEDS PROTECTION, WE'LL PROVIDE IT.

Taking into consideration the different needs of all our users, the design is flexible to adapting to different needs.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

EMPOWERING THE YOUNG

Enable the community to add their local touch to the structure.

The project goes beyond providing shelter; it offers a surface for local young people to paint, giving them a chance to express themselves through art. This opportunity will help them gain recognition and jump start their careers.

receiving recognition

United Nations International Day of Girls in ICT to Meet the SDGS.

Flyer for the event.

"Presenting at the United Nations International Day of Girls in ICT with Accountable Impact was truly inspiring. Sharing the Cocoon project alongside fellow advocates for positive change was an honor. This event highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such impactful discussions."
— Mariana Lora

Format

VIDEO

Date

Apr. 25, 2024

DURATION

14 min.

The United Nations Association of the USA, Global Futurist Initiative, and Accountable Impact are hosting the commemoration event "Intersecting Gender and ICT to Meet the SDGs" for the UN Observance of International Girls in ICT Day. Held annually on the fourth Thursday in April, these organizations aim to raise awareness about the need to have a gender lens in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector and its significance in the pursuit of meeting both Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 Gender Equality and SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals.

The Membrane

Coconut Grove, FL.

2023

Typology

CULTURE

Material

Bamboo

LET IT FLOW THROUGH

As sea levels rise, architectural norms must adapt to nature's evolving forces. In South Florida, where land-based structures face obsolescence, floating buildings emerge as the future. Given uncertainties, the design incorporates bamboo, an eco-conscious choice. If sea levels surpass 5 feet, the bamboo structure touches water, initiating gradual decomposition that prevents environmental harm. Doubling as a membrane, it welcomes natural light and wind while resiliently embracing changing conditions.

THE COMMUNITY & THEIR NEEDS

PLAN - LEVEL 1

THE MARKETPLACE

Welcome to "The Marketplace" – your community's hub for supporting local businesses and promoting well-being. Here, we connect you with diverse local products and services, fostering economic growth and enhancing our collective quality of life. Join us in investing in the heartbeat of our community and building a stronger, more vibrant local economy.

Rendering

The 3 Levels
& Sea Level Rise

The design features three distinct levels: the market, gallery space, and the topmost nook space, all coexisting with the bottommost level—the sea level rise.

CLIMATE CHANGE

SITE

3597 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133

In flood-prone South Florida's Coconut Grove, building for future conditions is crucial. The project integrates resilient features to adapt to potential increased flooding and high winds.

Hand sketch

BUOY SHAPE

The design draws inspiration from buoys, known for their stability in turbulent conditions. By emulating this stability, the project enhances its resilience to unpredictable forces and adverse conditions.

CYL (1)

reduces wind impact, preserving the structure over time.

1/3

The mass is divided into three components for three distinct programs.

STABILITY

The mass decreases with each level above to enhance stability, with the largest mass at the bottom, progressively smaller as it rises.

VENT

Openings are positioned around the facade to facilitate cross ventilation throughout each level's circumference.

LOW IMPACT

Smoothing the edges enhances wind flow around the building efficiently.

PROTECTING ITS HISTORY

WISDOM FROM THE PAST

The Membrane, influenced by the rich architectural heritage of Coconut Grove, draws inspiration from its landmarks. By studying their construction, materials, and design considerations, the Membrane seeks to emulate the local structures' distinctive feel while embracing a contemporary and sustainable approach. In doing so, it aspires to seamlessly integrate into Coconut Grove's unique architectural landscape, preserving the neighborhood's character and contributing to its ongoing legacy.

POPULATION

Medium

Photography

Photographer

Ralph M. Munroe

Coconut Grove stands as a testament to its multifaceted past, with its historic sites, cultural diversity, and architectural significance reflecting the enduring legacies of the Seminole Tribe, the Bahamian immigration, and the continuous evolution of the land. This neighborhood remains a dynamic hub, seamlessly blending its rich history with the present, creating a unique and captivating community along the shores of Biscayne Bay.

INFLUENTIAL LANDMARKS

PINUP-LESS

MMC, FIU.

SPRING 2024

Typology

ART INSTALLATION

Material

1 MONTH PRINT WASTE

COLLABORATION

Justina Vaicelionyte
JOHN CABAUY

THIS ISN'T EVEN 1/2 OF IT.

An architectural pavilion constructed from a semester's printing waste at FIU's Architecture Department aims to raise awareness about excessive printing. This issue is prevalent not only at FIU but also in architectural departments at universities worldwide. The project highlights the environmental impact of overprinting and encourages more sustainable practices.

IN NEED OF CHANGE

HOW WE FEEL

Hero & Sean O'Sullivan

“This is a frustration project.”
— Sean O'Sullivan

IT'S JUST OLD SCHOOL
IT'S JUST UNECESSARY

Like us, many architecture students feel frustrated when having to print for a weekly PINUP.Many find them unecessary, a waste of time, and worst of all, a waste of paper.

US

WHO WAS BEHIND IT?

Justina Vaicelionyte & Mariana Lora

Enable the community to add their local touch to the structure.

The project goes beyond providing shelter; it offers a surface for local young people to paint, giving them a chance to express themselves through art. This opportunity will help them gain recognition and jump start their careers.

INICIATORS

John Cabauy
Mariana Lora
Justina Vaicelionyte

Pinup donators

Shend Bejkollari
Veronica Dominguez
Mariana Lora
Alexa
Justina Vaicelionyte
Marcson Tanis
Angela Sweidn

VOLUNTEERS

Shend Bejkollari
Jennifer Zukoski
Sebastian Plasencia
Nathon White

Un-Permanent

Biscayne Bay, FL.

2022

Typology

CULTURAL

Material

Bamboo

The Un-Permanent pavilion in South Florida is a bamboo-based structure designed to offer recreational spaces with stunning coastal views. As the region faces increasing flooding due to rising sea levels, the pavilion is a resilient solution. Constructed from biodegradable materials, primarily bamboo, the pavilion not only withstands changing environments but also adapts to them.

THE COMMUNITY'S NEEDS.

Plan

Un-Permanent

The main objective behind the pavilion's design was to create a structure that could endure the effects of flooding, including those expected from intensifying hurricanes. The use of bamboo as the primary material ensures that the structure remains environmentally friendly. In the unfortunate event that the pavilion is damaged by a hurricane or becomes inaccessible due to sea level rise (a projected five-foot increase), the bamboo structure would make contact with the rising water and begin a natural process of decomposition. This decomposition process is both ecologically sound and a fitting end to the pavilion's lifecycle, as it returns to the environment without causing pollution.

The Openings

Miami, FL.

2022

Typology

RESIDENTIAL

Material

CONCRETE

The Un-Permanent pavilion in South Florida is a bamboo-based structure designed to offer recreational spaces with stunning coastal views. As the region faces increasing flooding due to rising sea levels, the pavilion is a resilient solution. Constructed from biodegradable materials, primarily bamboo, the pavilion not only withstands changing environments but also adapts to them.

THE CONCEPT BEHIND

Conceptual Model

The Cube

I created an abstract design by grid-mapping a painting, then carved it onto a slab for a two-dimensional effect. This evolved into a cube, which I sculpted and manipulated to create synthetic spaces. The process involved balancing between chaos and order, exploring the impact of varying degrees of intervention. The result is a series of dynamic frames and masses, embodying the tension between too much and too little.

THE DESIGN

ISONOMETRIC

TERRACES

• Cancel

EDUCATION

Incoming Spring 2025
MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE
Florida International University

ORGANIZATION

UNITED NATIONS — MEMBER
NOMAS — E-BOARD
AIAS — MEMBER

LANGUAGES

ENGLISH — FLUENT
SPANISH — FLUENT
FRENCH — INTERMEDIATE
ITALIAN — INTERMEDIATE

SKILLS

Drafting
Architectural Model Making
3D Printing
Laser Cutting
Designing
Research
Web Creator & Designer
Video Creator
Branding
Sales
Hand drawing
Painting
Sculpting

PROGRAMS

AutoCAD
Rhino
Grasshopper
Revit
Green Building Studio
Lumion
Photoshop
InDesign
Illustrator
PremierPro
Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Suite
Midjourney
Microsoft Office
Promai

WORK EXPERIENCE

VERDORA I FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

AUG 2023 - CURRENTLY

Founder and design director of VERDORA.STUDIO, a visionary design studio committed to advancing sustainable practices through inventive experimentation and unconventional methodologies.

The cocoon I project manager

ONGOING

Accommodating the diverse needs of individuals given Florida's fluctuating weather conditions, including high rains, intense sun, and heat, necessitated the creation of an Interactive pedestrian shelter, the Cocoon. Its interactive features serve as a statement of our commitment to enhancing the daily life of pedestrians, reflecting a thoughtful consideration for the well-being of all users, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.

• The Cocoon

BARR ARCHITECTURE & COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION I ARCHITECTURAL ASSOCIATE

JUN 2024 - CURRENTLY

Development of technical drawings, design solutions for as-builts, conducting site inspections, and producing comprehensive as-built documentation for commercial projects.

INDEPENDANT FREELANCER I DESIGNER, DRAFTER, brand designer, & website developer

AUG 2023 - Dec 2023

As an independent freelancer, I specialize in aiding architects, designers, and artists by facilitating the development and realization of their designs through advanced computer programs. In addition, I offer drafting services and create customized websites for clients, providing comprehensive support across various creative endeavors.

GENSLER I MENTORSHIP

JUL 2022 - MAY 2023

Actively contributed to project revisions, data analysis, and drafting revisions. Worked closely with Strategist & Technical Designer Corina Ocanto.

MANDACARU MIAMI I DESIGNER, ASSISTANT STORE MANAGER, & PAINTER

APR 2021 - AUG 2021

Developed over 50 unique hand-painted fine ceramic designs in collaboration with renowned ceramist designer Ana C. Mastrodomenico, incorporating her distinctive signature techniques. Managed and oversaw the store. Facilitated the commission of projects. Curated collections of ceramics sourced from Italy and Brazil, contributing to increased sales and customer engagement. Executed a prestigious commission by Jorge M. Perez, further establishing the brand's reputation for high-quality and artistic excellence.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

LEADERSHIP

ARCHITECTURAL AUTHORITY I FRAMING THE FUTURE - PODCAST SPEAKER

SEP 2024

Invited guest on Framing the Future, an Architectural Magazine podcast, to discuss personal insights on architecture.

UNITED NATIONS I UN YOUTH PANELIST

APR 2024

Invited to present at the United Nations Youth Panel for a project that advocates for the enhancement of public transportation installations and their design.

• United Nations International Day of Girls in ICT to Meet the SDGS.

NOMAS I RSO REPRESENTATIVE

AUG 2023 - MAY 2024

Maintained the organization’s standing within FIU by reporting all necessary information to CSO every month. Attended and recorded all activities that the organization participated in. Managed the organization’s website profile. Communicated with the organization’s members and the other officers.

NOMAS I SUSTAINABILITY TEAM DIRECTOR

AUG 2023 - DEC 2023

Entrusted with directing the sustainability department for the FIU NOMAS team at the 2023 NOMAS Competition in Portland, Oregon.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ACHIEVEMENTS

RATCLIFFE ART & DESIGN INCUBATOR - RA + DI I RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (2nd year fellow)

AUG 2024 - MAY 2025

Recipient of a $10,000 scholarship from the Ratcliffe Art + Design Incubator - an exclusive program selecting fewer than a dozen students annually from FIU's CARTA & Business departments - to support fieldwork and research.

LEADERSHIP AGILITY I CERTIFICATE

JAN 2024 - MAY 2024

The Leadership Fundamentals Certificate, awarded by the Center for Leadership, recognizes mastery in navigating change and uncertainty. Earners have demonstrated their ability to manage change, trends, resilience, healthy work cultures, strengths, and conflict, preparing them to lead confidently in dynamic environments.

• Leadership Agility Certificate - Show Credential

FUNDAMENTALS OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FOR CREATIVE PRACTICIONERS I CERTIFICATE

AUG 2023 - JAN 2024

The Creative Entrepreneurship Certificate, from the Ratcliffe Art and Design Incubator, recognizes proficiency in aligning creative practices with business models. Recipients can transform ideas into sustainable products, engage customers, and utilize business canvases for their ventures.

• Fundamentals of Business Development for Creative Practicioners Certificate - Show Credential

RATCLIFFE ART & DESIGN INCUBATOR - RA + DI I RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (1st year fellow)

AUG 2023 - MAY 2024

Recipient of a $7,000 scholarship from the Ratcliffe Art + Design Incubator - an exclusive program selecting fewer than a dozen students annually from FIU's CARTA departments - to support fieldwork and research.

LEADERSHIP MACABEE TASK FORCE I RECIPIENT

AUG 2023

Recipient of the 2023 Maccabee Task Force leadership prize. Only twenty-two scholars from Florida International University were selected to travel to Israel, meet with local leaders and activists, and study the intricate political and cultural landscape of the country.

MOMA - Reimagining Blackness & Architecture I CERTIFICATE

MAR. 2021

The course explored how race has influenced architecture and the built environment, highlighting the contributions of Black architects and artists in advocating for justice and equity. Allowing the understanding of how these pioneers have reimagined and shaped spaces to create better futures.

• MOMA - Reimagining Blackness & Architecture

AUTOMATION FOR ARCHITECTURE I CO-AUTHOR

JAN 2021 - DEC 2021

Co-author of the "Automation for Architecture" research article. Selected to present the research’s findings at the 2022 Undergraduate Research Fair of Florida International University. Featured in Florida International University's newspaper for notable work in the Automation for Architecture research project.