Zahra Johari, Urban and regional planner on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Urban Planning

Zahra Johari

Urban and regional planner, municipality of ABADAN

Charleston, SC

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree PhD Student in Urban Planning Degree Azad University (Iran) Cert Department of Engineering (Iran) Member Department of Engineering (Iran) Member Cancer Society (United States)

Her Story

About Zahra

I have approximately 14 years of experience in the field of urban planning. For about 8 years, I served as Technical and Urban Planning Manager and Deputy of Urban Planning and Architecture at the municipality in Iran. I am currently a PhD student of urban planning at Azad University in Iran. I recently moved to the United States, and at this time I am working as a researcher while I work on my CV and resume, spend time getting some certificates, and develop my skills. I am originally from Iran, where most women cannot have good positions or jobs because of gender discrimination. I am most proud that with my background and the support of my father and mother, I was able to achieve my desire to be an urban planning woman. I am also a watercolor artist and have had some exhibitions of my work in my country. I share my paintings on my social media accounts, especially sketches of urban areas. I write some articles for newspapers or journals, and I want to expand my LinkedIn account to share my experience with others.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Zahra

01What do you attribute your success to?

I think the main reasons for my success are hardworking, not being disappointed or giving up, and the help of my family. My family's support has been essential in helping me achieve my goals, especially as a woman from Iran where gender discrimination makes it very difficult for women to have good positions or jobs. With my background and the support of my father and mother, I was able to achieve my desire to be an urban planning woman, which I consider my most notable achievement.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I think young women entering urban planning should be strong and have critical thinking skills. They need to have creativity in planning and design. These qualities are essential for success in this field, especially for women who may face challenges and barriers.

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