Reflections from the Women of Influence Conference

Every so often, you find yourself in a room that reminds you why you do what you do. The GlobeSt. Women of Influence Conference was one of those rooms.

Spending a couple days with women from across the commercial real estate industry was both inspiring and motivating. There was a real sense of collaboration, with conversations about leadership and the future of our industry. Hearing different experiences and perspectives reminded me that while our paths may be different, many of us are working toward the same goal: building better businesses and making a lasting impact.

Receiving the 2026 Women of Influence Award in Architecture and Design was a true honor. Although the award has my name on it, it reflects the work of my incredible team. Every person at The Designers Group has played a role in building the firm and bringing our projects to life. I'm grateful to work alongside people who share the same belief that design should do more than look beautiful. It should improve people's everyday experiences.

When I started The Designers Group, rooms like this one were harder to find. Seeing so many women leading firms, closing deals, and driving projects forward is a reminder of how far our industry has come. It also shows why visibility matters. Every woman on that stage makes it easier for the next one to see what's possible.

I left the conference feeling grateful and energized. It reminded me why I started The Designers Group and what I want to continue building. That means designing spaces that put people first, investing in the next generation of designers, and giving back through TDG Gives Back. Recognition is meaningful, but what matters most is using it as motivation to keep moving forward.

-Blima