Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we sit down with Sophia Malbarosa known online as Pia Builds. Pia is a multidisciplinary artist turned carpenter, professor, and advocate for representation in the trades. Pia’s story begins with her first love: dance. After injuries sidelined her dream of becoming a professional ballerina, she sought new ways to channel her creativity, which led her to discover a passion for carpentry and set design.
Pia shares how her time in the carpentry shop reawakened her creative spirit, as she realized that building with her hands held the same artistry and fulfillment as expressing herself through movement. From the first time she picked up a power tool to teaching carpentry at Humber College, Pia’s journey is a testament to the resilience and reinvention needed to thrive in male-dominated spaces.
Pia discusses her experiences as a Filipina woman navigating the trades, from facing micro-aggressions in the workplace to finding power in her cultural heritage. She candidly reflects on how embracing her authentic self has not only empowered her but also inspired her students. As a professor, Pia focuses on creating safe, inclusive learning spaces where students feel supported, free to make mistakes, and encouraged to bring their full selves into the workshop.
Pia also shares moving stories about her art installations, including a collaborative piece called Weaving Waves. This project blended textiles, steel, and video projections to explore themes of cultural identity, storytelling, and belonging. For Pia, creativity transcends medium—whether she’s in a carpentry shop, a theater, or teaching a class, her passion for storytelling and connection shines through.
Whether you're passionate about art, trades, or education, Pia’s episode will inspire you to see the intersections between these worlds and encourage you to embrace the power of your unique story.
Pia:
www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-malbarosa/