14: Bringing my City Fez back to Life with Award Winning Architect Aziza Chaouni
Born and raised in Fez, Morocco, Aziza Chaouni a renowned Architect and Professor features on Talking Respect Podcast of bringing her city, Fez back to life. She left Morocco in her early years to gain an outstanding education from the University of Columbia and Harvard she then progressed to become a Professor at the University of Toronto. So what brought her to make an impact in Morocco? It was her fascination with the Fez River, which winds through the city's ancient Medina where she grew up. A project that she has been working on for two decades, her mission was to transform the Fez River and she accomplished this plus so much more! In 2014, Aziza was featured on @ted Talks for her major contributions and eco friendly designs in Fez. Fast forward years later Aziza is an award winning international architect bringing her city, Fez back to life. In episode 14 Aziza shares her experience of gaining approval to practice architecture in Morocco which required much patience and perseverance (she has gained). That it took her a tremendous amount of patience not to give up on her dreams and that if you want something hard enough you will achieve it. Aziza proudly speaks of projects that are dear to her heart such as rehabilitating the ancient al-Qarawiyyin Library in Fez where her great grandfather studied and the architectural gem, Sidi Harazem by French Architect Jean- François Zevaco. She describes the challenges inherent in undertaking a daunting, historic project which she passionately speaks about. Tune in to learn about Moroccan culture, a touch of history and to hear about a journey of a woman determined to live her dreams against all odds. To find out more about Aziza Chaouni see her webpage www.azizachaouniprojects.com or her social media page @azizachaouniprojects