Tonisia Walters

I attribute much of my success to the unwavering support of my friends. They provide honest, genuine feedback that isn’t influenced by workplace dynamics or superficial expectations. When they share their thoughts, I know it comes from a place of sincerity, and that authenticity has been incredibly grounding throughout my career.

They consistently encourage me to keep pushing forward and remind me that my work in architecture and design is unique within our circle. Because I’m naturally reserved, I don’t always lead with what I do professionally. I sometimes downplay it by saying, “I’m not a doctor, I just design,” but when people learn more about the scope and impact of my work, they’re often surprised and impressed.

Their constant belief in me has played a significant role in helping me reach this point in my career. That steady encouragement has strengthened my confidence, motivated me to continue growing, and reinforced my commitment to excelling in my field.

The best career advice I’ve received has come from my boyfriend, Jason, who has helped me approach my career with a stronger and healthier mindset. He’s encouraged me not to enter professional situations emotionally, but instead to take my time, gather feedback, and process it thoughtfully. He often tells me to “chew the meat and spit out the bones,” meaning I should absorb what is valuable and constructive while letting go of anything that doesn’t serve my growth.

He also reminds me to truly listen, because sometimes the feedback I receive may be difficult to hear, yet still valid. At the same time, he consistently emphasizes the importance of knowing my worth. He’s taught me that if I allow certain behaviors or standards to slide in this industry, they can quickly become the expectation. Addressing concerns professionally and respectfully, then moving forward with confidence, has been a lesson that’s shaped how I navigate workplace dynamics.

Beyond that, he’s my sounding board at the end of each day, helping me sort through challenges and opportunities with clarity. He also pushes me to take the next steps in my professional development, including pursuing my architectural license—even when I feel too busy to focus on it. His balance of encouragement, accountability, and perspective has had a profound impact on my career growth.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to recognize that you are on the same level as anyone else in the room. If you genuinely want to pursue this path, you can make it happen. Along the way, you will encounter individuals who may not agree with you or fully value your contributions—but that’s part of life and part of any profession. Those experiences are not setbacks; they are stepping stones that help shape your resilience, clarity, and direction.

It’s also important to have open conversations with peers and mentors about shared experiences, especially around professional growth and compensation. I’ve noticed that many of us instinctively undervalue ourselves in interviews, often suggesting lower compensation out of habit. I’ve learned that each new opportunity should reflect growth—not just in title, but in pay and responsibility. Our work speaks for itself, and we should approach negotiations with that confidence.

Finally, don’t feel pressured to overextend yourself simply to prove your worth. Many women take on more than necessary because they feel they have something to validate. The truth is, the worst someone can say is no. Advocate for yourself, ask for what you deserve, and set clear professional standards. Confidence, preparation, and self-respect will carry you further than self-doubt ever will.

In my professional life, I am deeply committed to work that supports income-based and accessible housing. We are living in a time when so many individuals—veterans, families in transition, and those without adequate resources—are struggling to find safe and stable housing. I am passionate about the idea of creating thoughtfully designed communities of small homes where people can live without judgment, feel secure, and still enjoy beautiful, well-crafted spaces. While I love designing aesthetically refined projects, I am equally driven to address the realities around us—vacant buildings, dilapidated homes, and underutilized properties that could be transformed into safe havens for those in need, including individuals from foster care or survivors of abuse. Creating safety and shelter is where I believe meaningful change begins.

I value dignity, functionality, and compassion in design. When I see neglected properties or empty buildings, I immediately think about their potential—how they could be renovated and repurposed to serve a greater good. It’s difficult for me to accept that people are experiencing homelessness while viable structures sit unused. My long-term vision includes contributing to development initiatives that prioritize both thoughtful design and social impact.

In my personal life, I value family, wellness, and creativity. I cherish spending time with my son, especially supporting him in his athletic pursuits. With my background in volleyball and track, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and encouraging his growth both physically and mentally. I also maintain my own creative outlets through drawing and fashion sketching, and I stay active by participating in adult volleyball leagues. I consider myself a foodie and enjoy exploring new dining experiences, and I often take on small remodeling projects for my mother’s friends simply because I genuinely love the process of improving spaces. Whether in work or life, I’m guided by purpose, creativity, and a desire to build something meaningful.