In this special conversation, Dr. Yahya Al-Najjar, the architect and designer, discusses his life journey filled with challenges and achievements, starting from his childhood in Taif where he sold sweets and toys at an early age. He talks about his passion for design and how that influenced his choice of academic field, where he studied architecture at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Yahya reviews the details of his educational and professional experience, explaining how these experiences shaped his status as a professional architect. He also highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in large architectural projects and points out the cultural differences between working environments in the United States and Saudi Arabia. The episode also discusses the influence of Islamic architecture in history and how architecture is not just a building, but an expression of culture and history. Through personal stories and professional experiences, Dr. Yahya emphasizes the importance of design in our lives and encourages listeners to innovate and persevere in their professional paths.
The Beginning of Professional Life and Early Passion for Trade
From a young age, he had an innate passion for trade. He started working at an early age, where he began selling nuts and sweets to his peers. This was his first experience in the business world, where he learned the principles of selling and promotion. Although he was only four years old, he would negotiate with his customers and convince them to buy his products, demonstrating a natural talent for marketing and trade. These early experiences contributed to shaping his business personality, as he acquired skills in dealing with others and understanding market needs.
As time went on, he continued to develop his trading skills. In middle school, he opened a small shop selling sweets and drinks. This was a very beneficial experience for him, as he learned how to manage a business, monitor inventory, and deal with customers. All these skills served as the foundation that helped him build his professional future. At the same time, he had a keen interest in architecture and design, which motivated him to study this field at university.
Transitioning to Architecture and University Study
After graduating from high school, he decided to enroll in King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals to study architecture. This step was very significant in his life, as he found himself in an advanced educational environment full of challenges. At university, he immersed himself in the study of building design and architectural engineering, becoming passionate about new and innovative ideas in this field.
During his studies, he was influenced by his teachers and classmates, all of whom were enthusiastic and creative. He attended lectures seriously and actively participated in discussions about design and architectural engineering. Through his practical experiences in university projects, he learned how to turn ideas into tangible reality, where he would sketch architectural plans and designs. This foundational knowledge helped him understand how architects work and how to design buildings correctly.
Challenges and Opportunities in Professional Life
After graduating from university, he faced new challenges in the job market. Competition was tough, but his passion for architecture and building design drove him to persevere. He began working at an architectural design firm, where he gained valuable practical experience. One of the biggest challenges he faced was adapting to the different demands and expectations of clients. He learned that success in this field requires more than just technical skills; it also needs strong communication skills and an ability to understand clients’ needs.
Throughout his career, he received numerous opportunities to work on large and complex projects. He participated in designing public buildings, residential complexes, and shopping centers. Thanks to his experience and skills, he was able to execute successful projects that left a mark on the community. These projects posed a challenge for him, but they also provided an opportunity to showcase his creativity and design skills.
Influences
Cultural and Artistic Influences on Architecture
He was significantly influenced by various cultures during his educational and professional journey. While studying abroad, he encountered new experiences and diverse architectural visions. This diversity helped him develop his unique design style. He began integrating cultural and artistic elements into his works, making him stand out in his field. He believed that architecture is not just a building, but an expression of culture, history, and identity.
His experiences in traveling and interacting with engineers and designers from different countries positively influenced his vision. He started to understand how the surrounding environment impacts design and how architecture can be used to enhance cultural identity. These ideas became an integral part of his design philosophy, as he always seeks to create spaces that reflect local culture and history.
Focus on Education and Knowledge Transfer
After years of working in the field, he began to think about how to transfer his knowledge and experience to the new generation of architects. He wanted to share his vision and philosophy of design with students. He decided to engage in education, becoming a lecturer at the university. This step was a new challenge for him, but he was passionate about helping students develop their skills and encouraging them to think critically and creatively.
During his educational career, he focused on the importance of practical experience. He encouraged students to participate in real projects, where they could apply what they learned in class. He believed that learning through practice is the best way to develop skills. He also always sought to provide individual support to each student, which contributed to creating a positive learning environment that fosters innovation and learning.
Future Challenges and Innovation in Architecture
With the continuous technological advancement, the field of architecture faces new challenges that require innovation and adaptation. He sees that the future requires architects to effectively use technology in design. For example, using 3D design software, 3D printing, and sustainable construction techniques has become an integral part of the design process.
He believes that innovation in architecture is vital to addressing challenges faced by modern societies, such as climate change and population growth. Architects must think strategically about how to design sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings. These new trends require new skills, and he encourages students to explore these areas and embrace innovation in their future designs.
Experiences of Education and Work in the United States
The experience of education and work in the United States represents a critical turning point in the careers of many individuals, highlighting the importance of practical learning alongside academic education. In this case, the story discusses the transition from studying to working in the field of architecture, where employment opportunities were presented during the study period. This model of education involves many advantages, such as gaining practical experience and expanding the network of contacts, which helps in building a successful professional future.
Upon moving to the United States, he faced new challenges such as finding suitable housing and buying a car, steps that can be complicated for international students. However, there were programs like the “Host Family Program” that helped students integrate into the new community. This type of support reflects the importance of social relationships in facilitating the transition experience, as host families can provide students with valuable information about everyday life and legal and cultural systems.
The experience of working in a small company as a master’s student contributed to learning how to manage business and commercial foundations in American culture. The wages during that period were considered good compared to local standards, reflecting a good understanding of the market economy. Through work, communication and critical thinking skills were developed, which are vital skills in any professional field. The lessons learned from this practical experience can be considered a foundation for building a strong professional character capable of adapting to various circumstances.
Interaction
Cultural Exchange and Learning from Other Experiences
Intermingling with different cultures is one of the essential benefits of living and studying in a country like the United States. These cultural aspects enhance mutual understanding and respect, opening new horizons of knowledge. When international students live with American families, they can learn about different traditions and cultures, contributing to the formation of their cultural identity and broadening their worldview.
Social events and gatherings in the United States reflect the diversity of American culture, where individuals participate in various celebrations that reflect history and heritage. These experiences are not limited to knowing customs and traditions but also contribute to building friendships and relationships that transcend cultural boundaries. By taking advantage of social opportunities, students can learn from others’ experiences, helping them develop their personal and professional skills.
Living in a multicultural environment can have a positive impact on social and psychological adaptation, as it helps individuals develop effective communication skills and understand cultural diversity. These experiences contribute to fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, making life in a multicultural environment a rich and beneficial experience.
Work Culture and Professional Thought in the United States
Work education in the United States emphasizes a culture of performing tasks efficiently without wasting resources. Lessons learned from practical experiences illustrate that work should be results-oriented, where performance is evaluated based on efficiency and productivity. This mindset reflects the importance of good planning and organization in the workplace, helping to improve outcomes and achieve desired goals.
The difference in professional culture across countries is an essential element in understanding how to manage businesses. In the United States, there is a primary focus on achieving results, which requires individuals to be responsible for their actions and to use resources effectively. This type of culture enhances the value of teamwork and collaboration among colleagues, contributing to the creation of a positive and effective work environment.
The impact of this culture can also be observed in how challenges and pressures are managed in the workplace. Focusing on providing solutions rather than complaining about problems helps build a positive mindset and contributes to improving overall performance. By fostering this culture, individuals can become better prepared to face challenges and achieve success in their professional careers.
Balancing Work and Personal Life and Marriage
The balance between work and personal life is one of the main challenges individuals face across various cultures. Succeeding in a professional life requires long hours of work and diligence, but it is also important to allocate time for family and friends. In this context, marriage is one of the fundamental aspects that affect individuals’ lives and their psychological balance. A person talks about how marriage was a turning point in their life, bringing happiness and stability.
The experience of marriage reflects the importance of partnership and mutual support in life. When partners understand each other and support one another, it becomes possible to achieve common goals and enhance psychological well-being. Marriage contributes to creating a stable environment that encourages personal and professional growth, where individuals can achieve a balance between work and family.
Moreover, having a partner who supports your goals and shares challenges aids in making significant decisions and dealing with pressures. This dynamic reflects the importance of strong relationships in individuals’ lives, as a partner can be a source of support and motivation during difficult times. By strengthening these relationships, individuals can achieve success and balance in their lives.
Entrepreneurship and Business Partnerships
Entrepreneurship is an exciting field that requires courage and a desire for innovation. Through practical experiences, it becomes clear that partnership is a crucial element in the success of projects. Choosing the right partner can significantly impact the project’s success, as partners must share values and goals to ensure mutual success. The spirit of cooperation and partnership helps achieve goals more quickly and effectively.
It is characterized by…
One of the valuable lessons in the field of entrepreneurship is the importance of being open to new ideas and collaborating with others. By working with partners, individuals can enhance their skills and expand their network. This network enhances success opportunities and opens new doors for growth. Through developing good relationships, partners can collaborate to face challenges and achieve common goals.
Experiences related to starting businesses also emphasize the necessity of patience and persistence. Success in entrepreneurship does not come easily; it requires hard work and learning from mistakes. By focusing on learning and adapting, individuals can build successful projects that endure over time. This vision emphasizes the importance of teamwork and partnership in achieving success.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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