In this interview, Monica Nikam shares her experiences as a masterplanner, balancing motherhood and career, and offers advice to future generations of women in the built environment.

I'm an architect and masterplanner, brought up in the beautiful state of Goa, India. For the past five years, I've been part of Broadway Malyan's masterplanning and urban design team based in Dubai, working on large-scale projects in the region.

My journey into design and construction began in childhood. My father is a civil engineer, and I often visited his construction sites after school. Watching a design on paper take shape as a fully functional building fascinated me—that's where the seed was sown. Years later, when it was time to choose a field of study and build a career, I jumped at the chance to pursue architecture.

Masterplanning came later, during my fourth and fifth years of architectural education. I was working on my thesis dissertation, studying the vernacular architecture of slums and informal settlements in Goa. Visiting these settlements and speaking with residents to understand their challenges was a turning point in my career. I realised that design isn’t just about individual buildings or aesthetics—it’s about people, equity, and access to basic needs.

Seeing firsthand how informal settlements function, how people navigate their daily lives with limited space and resources, and how the right planning interventions can uplift entire communities—that was the moment I realised I wanted to work at a larger scale. One that could shape entire communities and cities, creating a meaningful difference in people's lives. I think that’s what led me to a career in masterplanning.

Working in the UAE is a dream for most architects and masterplanners. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are exceptional cities. They’re continuously evolving, pushing boundaries in design and innovation, and setting global benchmarks that shape the future of urban development.

In India, cities typically grow more organically and sporadically, and the planning process is often slow, with approvals taking time and bureaucracy involved. In contrast, Dubai is well-structured, and the planning process in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi is much faster. It has been a great learning experience and has helped me grow as a masterplanner.

Dubai is home to a vibrant expat population from across the globe, and Broadway Malyan mirrors this diversity with its multi-studio working culture. This rich mix of perspectives, cultural insights, planning ideologies and design thinking makes working here incredibly dynamic. It pushes you to evolve as a masterplanner by embracing different viewpoints and integrating them into your approach.

The biggest challenge I faced came after becoming a mother, as there’s often an assumption that women’s careers slow down after having children. To counter this, I set clear boundaries and manage my time effectively, which allows me to balance motherhood and my career while continuing to progress professionally.

Unconscious bias towards women is still prevalent in this male-dominated industry, and I’ve witnessed it throughout my career. However, I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who valued my opinion, even when I was one of the few women in the room.

Over the years, I’ve become more assertive and confident, letting my work speak for itself. I've also learned to be kinder to myself and not let external biases shape my perception or define my path.

Although progress has been made, there is still a need for more women in leadership roles. Greater representation at the top will help challenge biases and foster a more inclusive environment for future generations of women architects and planners.

Balancing motherhood and a career in masterplanning is an ongoing learning process. It requires constant adjustment and the ability to prioritise. For me, the key has been setting clear boundaries and being intentional with my time. I focus on being fully present in each moment, whether at work or with my son. Some days, work takes priority, and on those days, I accept that balance isn’t about perfection. It is about finding the balance that works for you, your child and your career.

At work, I manage my time as efficiently as possible, delegating tasks when I can and keeping my colleagues informed about any personal or professional challenges. This helps maintain clarity and keeps the team aligned. At home, I focus on making the most of my time with my son, creating meaningful moments together.

I’m fortunate to work at Broadway Malyan, where I’ve received great support from my team and leaders. Their understanding and flexibility have made a significant difference, allowing me to balance both my professional and personal responsibilities effectively.

First and foremost, recognise that your voice matters. Diverse perspectives, especially those of women, are essential for designing inclusive cities that meet everyone’s needs. Never underestimate the value of your viewpoint, your opinion, and your contribution as a woman.

Find your purpose, as it will drive you to design better every day. For me, masterplanning is about creating cities that work for everyone, regardless of their background, social or financial status. This belief is what motivates me every day.

Build your professional community by seeking out mentors who inspire you and connect with like-minded individuals who share your values. These relationships can help you navigate challenges and open doors to the right opportunities. Find a healthy work environment that supports you personally and professionally, as this can make a huge difference in how you grow and thrive in the industry.