My Journey: From Traditional Design to Global Social Impact

My Journey: From Traditional Design to Global Social Impact

I am Maria Julia Salas, and in the world of architecture, my journey has increasingly become synonymous with social impact. As a proud alumna of the National University of La Plata, Argentina, I have built a career that transcends traditional design, using my skills to empower communities and promote social inclusion on a global scale. My work, particularly in collaboration with Hecho x Nosotros, a renowned NGO, has not only transformed lives but has also garnered international acclaim.

From La Plata to the Global Stage

My journey began in the historic city of La Plata, where I earned my degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, graduating with honors. My time in La Plata was truly formative. It was there that I first realized the potential of architecture to serve as a powerful tool for social change. I saw firsthand how thoughtful design could improve lives, create opportunities, and foster inclusivity in our communities.

After completing my studies in La Plata, I pursued a Master’s in Interior Design at the Florence Design Academy in Italy. This experience allowed me to further refine my skills in design thinking and spatial innovation. However, what truly set me apart was my unwavering passion for social impact. For me, architecture isn’t just about buildings; it’s about people. The spaces we create have the power to transform communities and uplift those who are often marginalized.

Building a Vision with Julia Salas LLC

When I founded Julia Salas LLC in Boca Raton, Florida, my vision was clear: I wanted to build a successful consultancy that would not only deliver exceptional design services but also serve as a platform to empower marginalized women. From the very beginning, my goal with Julia Salas LLC was to attract clients so that I could create opportunities for women who have historically been left out of the workforce.

My company focuses on providing skills training and employment opportunities to women in fields related to construction, interior design, and architecture. These industries require a wide range of skills, from technical drafting to project management. By equipping women with these skills, we’re not just helping them find jobs; we’re giving them the tools they need to build sustainable careers.

A Vision for Social Change

One of the most impactful projects I have undertaken is the development of an educational toolkit in collaboration with Hecho x Nosotros, a global NGO with consultative status at the United Nations. As the Innovation Leader at Hecho x Nosotros, I played a pivotal role in creating this toolkit, which is designed to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Latin America. The toolkit focuses on integrating sustainable practices, design thinking, and circular economy principles into the daily operations of artisans, many of whom belong to marginalized communities.

Our goal was to provide these artisans with the tools they need to compete in the global market while preserving their cultural heritage. The toolkit has been a game-changer, helping over 500 artisans increase their income by 15-20%. It’s about more than just business; it’s about creating lasting social impact.

Global Recognition and Influence

My role at Hecho x Nosotros has also opened doors to the global stage. As an Innovation Leader, I have been invited to speak at numerous prestigious international events, including the United Nations Side Event and the G20 Change maker Summit. These platforms have allowed me to share our approach to social impact and sustainable design with a global audience. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our ideas resonate with industry leaders and inspire change on a broader scale.

My work has not only been recognized by global institutions but has also influenced the way organizations and communities approach design and sustainability. The recognition has been validating, but more importantly, it has amplified the impact of our work. We’ve been able to connect with like-minded professionals and organizations, expanding the reach of our initiatives and making a bigger difference.

Empowering Communities Across the U.S.

In the United States, my company, Julia Salas LLC, has established a strong client base, providing streamlined design services that align with my mission of social impact. Our clients appreciate that we’re not just about aesthetics; we’re about creating spaces that serve people and communities. Whether it’s redesigning office spaces to boost employee well-being or consulting on public projects that promote social inclusion, our work is always rooted in the principles of sustainability and social good.

The success of Julia Salas LLC has allowed me to further my mission of empowering women by providing them with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in these dynamic industries. We’re breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women to enter and thrive in fields that have traditionally been dominated by men.

Looking Forward

As I continue to grow my business and expand my impact, I remain focused on my core mission: using design to create positive social change. I’m excited about the future. We’re developing new partnerships, exploring digital innovations, and finding new ways to bring our toolkit and training programs to even more communities around the world.

For me, the journey from La Plata to the global stage has been one of passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to social impact. My work stands as a testament to the power of design to transform not just spaces, but lives.

Architecture has always been about more than just buildings for me. It’s about people, communities, and the lasting impact we can create when we put them at the heart of our designs.

About Hecho x Nosotros

Hecho x Nosotros is a global NGO that works to advance sustainable fashion and circular economy practices. With consultative status at the United Nations, the organization collaborates with artisans and small enterprises across Latin America, providing tools and strategies to enhance their economic and social well-being.