Akuto Akpedze Konou, PhD, also known as Rolande, is a dynamic young architect and urban planner. Originally from Togo, Africa, she began her academic career at EAMAU, Togo, before continuing her studies at the College of Design (CRP) at Iowa State University, USA. Throughout her career, Akuto has played a key role in government projects and industrial positions in various countries. Currently, Akuto is a guest researcher and science communication specialist at CEAT, including the African Cities Lab project, at EPFL, after 4 years of advancing knowledge in her field as a PhD student and teaching assistant then postdoctorate in the CEAT laboratory at the same institution. Her doctoral research focused on urban agriculture and health in African cities, contributing to the SNSF's Sinergia project, African Contributions to Global Health (https://globalhealthafrica.ch/). This initiative underlines her dedication to addressing critical global health challenges through the prism of urban planning. A recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship and DKG World Fellowship, Akuto strives to make a difference as an academic in her field. Beyond her academic activities, she co-founded Konou & Co, Axe Durable and AfriK Durabiliterre, reflecting her passion for exploring innovative architectural and spatial techniques through R&D. Her efforts to promote harmonious community development reflect a deep commitment to the intersection between architecture, urban planning and sustainability.