Intergenerational Design

Samina is deeply committed to advancing access and equity in our homes, businesses, and communities.  She believes that places and spaces are made more meaningful when people across generations can contribute to active and lively communities. Central to her design philosophy is that everyone should be able to live with beautiful and well-functioning design, regardless of their age or challenges, and should have access to participate fully in both the public and private spheres as individuals, professionals, and family members.  She has worked to foster progress and change in her communities. 

Swarthmore Aging-in-Place Committee

In 2015, the  Swarthmore Borough Council appointed a committee of nine individuals with experience in law, healthcare, design, aging, and teaching.  The mission of the council was to understand how Swarthmore could truly welcome people of all ages and abilities.  The council studied five key areas of social engagement, health and safety, transportation and mobility, housing, and planning and zoning.  The Committee created a comprehensive report and presented 21 key recommendations  with implementation next steps to Borough Council that ranged from encouraging Borough residents to plan for their futures to increasing accessibility in Town Center in Swarthmore.  As the Transportation and Mobility Subcommittee Chair, Samina conducted the Committee's first public forum, assembling experts and speakers to speak about transportation and accessibility challenges and ideas with committee members as well as the public.  Samina also served on the Housing and Planningand Zoning subcommittees.  

Samina is thrilled that her advocacy contributed to the installation of the new ramp at Swarthmore's new Central Park, replacing the old stairs that once made it impossible for wheelchair users and strollers to easily get from the Town Center parking lot  to the Swarthmore Borough Hall and Library building.