Interview with Sofija Grujevska on the Role of Millennial Women in Architecture and Construction
We have created a platform for millennial women working in the industry who are ready to share their success stories. We launched a series of interviews to highlight their inspiring experiences and achievements, focusing on women who are transforming the world around them. In this edition, we spoke with Sofija Grujevska, Architect & Owner of DIMENZIJA DOOEL Skopje.
Can you tell us more about the company where you are working and its objective?
Dimensia is an architectural studio founded in 2018. Our aim is to provide high-quality and professional services in architecture and construction. We offer a full range of architectural services, focusing on supervision, auditing, and commissioning, to ensure sustainable, high-quality buildings with outstanding aesthetics.
What challenges have you faced as a millennial woman working in your industry, and how have you overcome them?
Being part of the millennial generation is truly a unique experience. We serve as a bridge between two distinct worlds – understanding the traditional mindset of older generations while staying attuned to the rapid advancements of modern technologies. Our role is to facilitate a smooth transition of values between these structures, recognizing that while the generational gap is significant, each has invaluable contributions. Older generations provide stability, experience, and foundational values we can learn from, while modern technology and artificial intelligence open new opportunities that we need to integrate.
As a millennial woman, particularly in the construction industry, I have often encountered challenges, such as the hesitation of older engineers or construction workers to take directions from younger individuals, for instance. However, these situations are resolved by clearly demonstrating the benefits of the proposed solutions while also listening to their suggestions. This approach leads to a settlement that results in the best possible outcomes. In essence, managing human resources is a delicate task that involves much more than addressing generational gaps or gender differences. True leaders are those who can navigate and overcome these challenges, fostering a harmonious and productive work environment.
What competencies or skills do you believe are most valuable for millennial women in the workplace, and why?
The most valuable competencies and skills for millennial women, as for all professionals, include responsibility in the workplace, a professional and high-quality approach to tasks, and unwavering integrity. Upholding principles and staying consistent in honoring them is the foundation for building trust, respect, and a successful career. However, in addition to these, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and strong communication skills are particularly important.
How can millennial women continue to develop and refine their skills in the industry?
Continuous learning is the foundation of personal progress. Alongside professional education, whether formal or informal, it’s also crucial to balance mental and physical health. Allocating time for self-improvement, such as reading, exploring new tools and programs, or pursuing cross-disciplinary education, is key. Additionally, focusing on personal strengths and talents helps achieve peak performance and long-term success.
How can millennial women continue to develop and refine their skills in the industry?
Continuous learning is the foundation of personal progress. Alongside professional education, whether formal or informal, it’s also crucial to balance mental and physical health. Allocating time for self-improvement, such as reading, exploring new tools and programs, or pursuing cross-disciplinary education, is key. Additionally, focusing on personal strengths and talents helps achieve peak performance and long-term success.
How do you think millennial women bring a unique perspective to the industry compared to previous generations?
Millennial women are more open and equipped with strong assets, such as freedom of speech and expression. They have access to the experiences and knowledge of previous generations and stand as pioneers who are aware of their power and potential. Raised in families where their mothers had already faced similar conditions, they are inherently stronger compared to our grandmothers. While some of their grandmothers may have lived in more developed families or regions, the general environment of their time was challenging – marked by wars, diseases, occupiers, and limited technological advancements.
In the fields of architecture and construction, education has played a pivotal role in transforming the profession. Modern academic programs provide access to the latest technologies, software, and techniques, which are essential for addressing contemporary challenges. Millennial women now can pursue education and specialize in areas that were once less accessible or traditionally male-dominated. They successfully combine traditional values with technological advancements, creating new perspectives and solutions that bring innovation and sustainability to the industry. Women in these fields actively contribute to the global architectural scene, blending knowledge from various cultures and contexts to design high-quality and inspiring spaces.
How do you see the role of mentorship and support networks playing a part in the advancement and success of millennial women in the workplace?
Mentorship is vital for the growth of any professional. I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors, and their guidance has been instrumental in my development. Mentorship provides technical and emotional support, builds networks, and helps to overcome challenges, particularly when transitioning into new roles, such as starting a new business. Currently, I’m experiencing the benefits of mentorship again during my MBA journey, where I was assigned a mentor from the very beginning and I’m very happy about it. Last year, I had the honour of officially stepping into the role of a mentor myself. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to share knowledge and expertise while empowering others to achieve their goals.
The Series of interviews are part of the project EMPOWERING – Empowering M-Women in Industry which focuses on millennial women (born between 1980 and 1995) working in manufacturing industries, aiming to support their professional education, skill development, and career advancement. The mission extends beyond individual empowerment to fostering European collaboration and networking, which are essential for success in today’s world.
Sofija Grujevska, Architect & Owner
DIMENZIJA DOOEL Skopje
