Mosope Ismail is a 2022-2023 Fellow. She grew up in Nigeria then went on to Penn State where she earned a Bachelors and Masters of Architectural Engineering.

Tell us about your host company and your role in the organization.
I work for SmithGroup as a Mechanical Engineer. SmithGroup is an award-winning, multinational integrated design firm. At SmithGroup, we leverage innovative processes, design thinking, and advanced design technologies to solve environmental challenges with the objective of designing a better place. SmithGroup provides expertise in architecture, engineering (coastal, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing), landscape architecture, urban design and environmental science.

Quick stop at my favorite small business in Detroit – Good Cakes & Bakes.

Tell us about the challenge project you’re currently working on; what are you learning from the experience?
We just started our third challenge project with Brilliant Detroit. Brilliant Detroit is an organization dedicated to helping children 0-8 to be healthy and school ready. In working through these challenge projects, I have become more aware of the opportunities and untapped resources available in the city of Detroit. My experience thus far has enabled me to develop and approach issues from a more empathetic perspective.

How do you hope to impact the community as a Fellow?
I am a believer of the saying that “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” by Mohandas Gandhi. I hope to impact the community as a fellow by serving and willingly offering my knowledge, skills and experience to help, encourage and build a community that we can all be proud of.

What are you most looking forward to as a Fellow this year?
I look forward to continuing exploring and learning more about the city while giving back and impacting my surroundings. I am also looking forward to improving my soft skills and building my career network.

Since becoming a Fellow, what is something you have learned about Detroit that has positively impacted your perspective on the city?
Since moving to Detroit 5 years ago, this is the first time I feel connected to the city. Detroit is rich with art, culture and A LOT of history. The city has gone through so much and is currently in the process of rebuilding itself. I now have a sense of responsibility to facilitate the city’s revitalization.

If someone is reading this and considering applying to be a Fellow, share why you would encourage them to apply?
Being part of the Challenge Detroit fellowship gives a unique opportunity to take part in community work, while learning and building soft skills which are very essential in navigating the workplace environment. So, DO IT!!!

Fellows after the completion of the Marygrove Conservancy Challenge Project.