Gioia Gianniotis (President)

Gioia Gianniotis - Registered Architect, Owner of GPG Architecture & Design

President 2023/2024

1.What is your work/passion/ side-hustle?

I decided I wanted to be an architect at 13 years old! I simply adore being an architect and I know that I will be able to do what I love for the rest of my life.

Practising as an architect is a lifestyle choice, and as an architect, I have the responsibility of teaching my clients and the community about environmental awareness and the future of the built environment. My studio is always filled with creative talent that challenges me every day to produce designs that are authentic and able to inspire change.

My job is constantly evolving and requires continual training and upgrading of skills. Each project is a window for inquiry into new technology or methods of construction.

Designing buildings is an extraordinary experience, especially that I can bring others dreams to life. I design the framework for people’s lives. The rooms, connections and functionality of their homes, offices and buildings and improving how people move and work within these spaces.

2. Beyond the 9 to 5 – what do you live for?

Beyond the 9 to 5 are my family, dogs, friends and a healthy way of life. I love spending time with friends in Wagga Wagga, visiting my family and friends in Sydney, swimming, walking my energetic dogs, dancing Zumba and cooking wholesome meals. My boys (now young men) keep me busy, and my wonderful and supportive husband is always about to lend a helping hand.

3. How did you land in Wagga - Are you Wagga born and bred, grew up here moved away and returned, moved here later in life and stayed because you love it, or something else that landed you here?

I grew up in Engadine, a beautiful and friendly suburb located in the Sutherland Shire, Sydney. My parents immigrated from North Italy as young adults, and they instilled in me a remarkable work ethic, love of buildings and appreciation of art and literature. My schooling culminated in gaining my architectural qualifications at the University of Technology, Sydney.

My husband Paul and I moved to Wagga Wagga in March 2004 for a lifestyle change. The move for me was exhausting and very demanding and threw me completely out of my comfort zone. At the same time, it was an incredible opportunity to grow both professionally and emotionally through a liberating and exciting process. Paul and I were indeed courageous and the positive attitude that we cultivated has enabled us to thrive under our new setting.

The support and connections that I have received from the Wagga Wagga community are incredible and I am very proud to have been able to spend the last 19 years of my life in this amazing town.

4. Woman (famous or not) you are most inspired by and why?

My mother inspires me. She is kind, resilient and incredibly strong. Her sacrifices, love of reading, passion for good presentation and honesty constantly encourage me to follow my own dreams with integrity and understanding.

The many incredible women around me in my everyday life constantly inspire me. From fellow mothers, to colleagues, family and friends – Women that are represented in all walks of life that change the world one small (or large) act at a time.