EMPOWERING INCLUSION IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP: KATHLEEN JAH-DAVIES’ INSPIRING JOURNEY

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, success hinges significantly on the integral components of diversity and inclusion. Kathleen Jah-Davies, co-founder and creative director of Arch Design SL Ltd., stands as a shining example of how inspiring inclusion can lead to remarkable achievements in careers traditionally dominated by certain demographics. Her journey, marked by determination, education, and a commitment to fostering balance, highlights the transformative power of equal opportunities.

Breaking Barriers
Kathleen’s academic background, earning a Bachelors Degree of Engineering in Architecture and a Master’s Degree in Architecture, Project Management, and Project Development from the University of Applied Sciences Mittelhessen and the Alanus University of Applied Sciences in Germany, positions her as a trailblazer in her field. Breaking through gender norms, she gained professional experience in Bonn, Germany, before returning to Sierra Leone in 2016 to co-found Arch Design (SL) Ltd.

Arch Design (SL) Ltd.: A One-Stop Shop for Innovation
The venture Kathleen co-founded, Arch Design (SL) Ltd., serves as a one-stop shop for Design, Construction, and Project Management. Driven by a commitment to excellence and a penchant for innovation, the company strives to create distinctive architectural projects that blend character and functionality seamlessly. Kathleen’s leadership role challenges stereotypes and exemplifies the transformative potential when women are given equal opportunities to contribute to traditionally male-dominated industries.

Addressing The Imbalance Challenge
In addressing the question of gender imbalance, Kathleen acknowledges the societal pressures and barriers that hinder the progress of women. From limited access to education to societal expectations, women face challenges that may impede their growth in various fields. Kathleen emphasizes the need to understand and embrace the equality of men and women while acknowledging their inherent differences. Her perspective calls for a rebalancing act in homes, workplaces, and all facets of life.

The Way Forward:Empowering Future Generations
Kathleen underscores the importance of education and mentoring in empowering future generations. She believes that theoretical knowledge, coupled with encouragement and personal development, plays a crucial role in dismantling gender-based disparities. By nurturing a mindset of equality from a young age, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial landscape.

Finding Inspiration
While Kathleen does not have a single role model, she draws inspiration from the positive and progressive aspects of everyone around her. Her admiration for her mother, who successfully raised four daughters while pursuing a professional career, and her husband’s grandmother, a resilient woman with a 90-year legacy of service, highlights the diversity of influences that shape her worldview.

Kathleen Jah-Davies’ journey exemplifies the power of inspiring inclusion in entrepreneurship. As we celebrate her achievements, let her story serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, regardless of gender. The call to recreate balance, foster equality, and empower the younger generation resonates beyond Arch Design (SL) Ltd., transcending into a universal quest for a more inclusive and equitable future.

International Women’s Day 2024: Sharing powerful stories of Sierra Leonean Women Entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and inspiring inclusion through their work.