Isabel Souza is an Architectural Designer at PMBA Architects having joined the firm upon completing her master's in architecture from Bowling Green State University in 2020. She’s a licensed architect in Brazil, where she earned her Bachelor of Architecture and Urbanism degree from Centro Universitario in 2017. Furthermore, Isabel is actively pursuing professional licensure through the Architect Registration Examination (NCARB ARE).

Throughout 13 years of her career, Isabel has had the opportunity of working with multiple firms, accumulating valuable experience in locations such as Brazil, New York City, and Northwest Ohio. At PMBA Architects, she has had the privilege to contribute to a diverse range of projects, each with unique purposes and sizes, allowing her to make a meaningful impact on our community. Among these is the French Quarter Square Development (FQS) in Perrysburg where she was involved in all project phases. Another recent project she was deeply engaged in was the renovation of the Long-Term Acute Care Hospital for Select Medical located at Mercy Health St. Charles Hospital (Oregon, OH). Additionally, she has been actively involved in the planning stages of various exciting design concepts. These are all thrilling projects that she eagerly anticipates seeing materialize into actual structures.

Isabel works tirelessly at creating positive awareness for the architecture profession both locally and internationally. She is a member of Arquitina, a national non-profit organization with the mission to raise the number of licensed Latina architects in the US. Additionally, Isabel has taken on the mentor role for many junior staff members/interns at PMBA, providing positive guidance in their development. Currently, she is in the process of starting a Young Professionals Forum for PMBA Architects, creating the opportunity to foster networking, mentorship, and career development among younger employees at the firm.

Although she graduated from BGSU in 2020, Isabel maintains a solid connection with the Architecture Department and many faculty members. She is frequently invited to participate in design studio reviews for both undergraduate and graduate programs within the BGSU Department of Architecture. As a former International Student and International Student Ambassador, she is an engaged member of the International Student alumni community at BGSU, actively participating in various events and activities organized by the International Programs and Partnerships Office.

Isabel is dedicated to enhancing the value of architecture and design through her service to the community, the profession, and the AIA Toledo Chapter, of which she has been a member since 2020. Over the past year, she served as a committee member for the AIAT High School Design Competition. Additionally, she is a member of the AIAT Emerging Professionals Committee. In 2023, she also represented AIAT as a Jury member for the 2023 AIA Ohio Student Awards.

Isabel grew up in Brazil where she earned her bachelor's degree and initiated her career. However, she proudly considers Ohio her current home. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, exploring Toledo Metroparks, spending time with family and friends, cooking, shopping, and watching movies and series. With the purpose of channeling her passion for architecture and the profession, she created the page, "Livin & Inspo," where she shares inspirational projects and photographs taken during her trips and visits to iconic buildings and cities. She concludes, "In the realm of my passion, I find myself truly blessed in a career I adore. The unwavering support of my family and friends has fueled my dreams since my youth. Gratitude fills my heart for the opportunity to work with PMBA Architects—a firm that not only supports professional development but also upholds values that resonate deeply with my own."

Isabel Souza, Associate AIA, will be presented the 2023 AIA Toledo Emerging Professional of the Year Award at the AIA Toledo Honor Awards Celebration on December 5, 2023.