Nearly ten years ago, I joined Wingates —part-time, still finishing my Masters of Architecture, unsure where my career might take me. I didn’t know it then, but this company would become more than just my workplace. It would become a place of growth, trust, learning—and the kind of support that makes a real difference in both life and career.

Over the years, as I became a mum to two children, Wingates gave me the flexibility and trust to keep growing professionally while also being there for my family. This kind of support is helpful—but also very rare, and something I’ve never taken for granted.

When I returned to work in 2019 after my first child, remote work was still pretty unusual. Wingates was already encouraging me to work from home when I needed to. It wasn’t just about ticking a box—it was a genuine offer of support, and it made all the difference in that early, uncertain time. Having the freedom to ease back into work while figuring out parenthood gave me a sense of stability and confidence I’ll always be grateful for.

Being able to set hours around school runs or appointments meant I could be present where I was needed most—both at work and at home. It wasn’t just about policies—it was about people, and a culture that trusted me to get the job done in a way that worked for everyone.

Beyond the flexibility, what’s really shaped my journey has been the variety of roles I’ve taken on. Working closely with Tracey and David Wingate, I had a front-row seat to how a business actually runs. I’ve worked across so many areas of the business—marketing, business development, accounts, workplace strategy, interior design, and yes, dabbled a little in architecture too.

While I didn’t go deep into architectural practice, I’ve built a strong foundation in the other parts that make a design studio run. I’ve learned what it means to grow a business, to support a team, and how complex and rewarding managing people can be. It’s been like a real-world crash course in the stuff no one teaches you at university.

Looking back, I can see how much of my experience has been shaped by the company’s values—curious, courageous, and caring. Curiosity to try new roles. Courage to speak up and take on things outside my comfort zone. And care—real, human care—that has made all the difference to me as both an employee and a parent.

What I appreciate most is that I never felt like I had to choose between being a parent and having a fulfilling career. Wingates didn’t just help me “make it work”—they helped me find ways to grow, contribute, and feel genuinely valued. And that makes a huge difference. When people feel supported, they want to show up, to do good work, and to stay.

As I get close to my tenth anniversary with the company later this year, I’ve been reflecting on just how far I’ve come. Not just in job titles or years served—but in the experiences I’ve had, the skills I’ve picked up, and the confidence I now carry into my work.

And maybe that’s what creating places that truly matter looks like—not just in the buildings we design, but in the environment we create for each other. I’m proud of the journey so far. And I’m incredibly thankful for a workplace that’s made space for all of it—career, motherhood, learning, and everything in between.