Dr. Sonja Svihla is a dynamic force of nature, whose extraordinary life weaves together the intricate threads of chemical engineering, vibrant community engagement, energetic hip hop fitness instruction, portrait and celestial photography, and the thrilling strums of her guitar with the Indonesian band, Pittsburgh RockDutters.
Each aspect of her life showcases a commitment to diversity, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of passions that defy conventional boundaries.
Overcoming Personal Tragedies
Sonja’s journey through personal tragedies, including profound losses, has reshaped her perspective on life. Her strength in the face of adversity is a beacon for others navigating similar challenges, unfolding as a testament to hope and fortitude.
Earlier in her life, Sonja suffered the devastating loss of two infants. Her son, Jayden, was born sleeping and was her first loss in March 2006. Less than 2 years later, in November 2007, Caden — a twin baby — passed away in utero when Sonja was 6 months pregnant. The doctors advised that Sonja carry him until full term. Caden’s twin sister, Charlize, now 16, was born when Sonja was 8 months pregnant. Sonja also has an older daughter, Aisha, who is now 25.
The loss of her children stripped her to the core and brought her to the brink of despair. “It was like an out-of-body experience, watching myself from a distance,” she recalls. This period of grief reshaped her understanding of what truly matters, revealing the fleeting nature of material possessions and emphasizing the irreplaceable value of love and family.
Suffering the recent loss of her sister in 2023 and, only a month later, her mother, Sonja found herself again in a deep sadness. Yet, through the darkness and with the loving support of her family and Pittsburgh community, Sonja discovered a renewed purpose. “Life can be taken away in an instant,” she says, a realization that drives her to embrace every moment with intention and gratitude.
Despite her sorrow, Sonja remains steadfast in her commitment to live fully.
Building Solutions and Inspiring Movements
In alignment with her passion to serve others, Sonja’s role as an Engineering Project Manager at the Pittsburgh Water & Sewer Authority showcases her profound impact on public health through her work on critical infrastructure projects. Her engineering career reflects a deep commitment to her community, aimed at ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.
In addition to her engineering endeavors, Sonja brings her vibrant energy to the cultural scene as a guitarist for the Pittsburgh RockDutters and as a hip hop fitness instructor. These roles highlight her dynamic personality and her passion for music and fitness.
In her fitness classes, Sonja echoes the lessons she imparts to her children about the power of a positive mindset and the importance of perseverance. “You don’t have to be like everyone else,” she advises. “Understand your limitations, but don’t let anything limit you.” Through both music and fitness, Sonja inspires those around her to strive for their best without being daunted by challenges, a philosophy bolstered by her father’s wise words: “Always try to do your best, but live your life like the way water flows.”
A Love for Wakesurfing
Sonja’s love for wakesurfing is a profound part of her identity. “Wakesurfing gives me a sense of freedom and challenge. It’s where I find my balance and push my limits,” she says. This adventurous spirit is evident in her impressive skills on the water, where she tackles waves with the same intensity she brings to all aspects of her life. Sonja is beyond grateful to Gill and Janine Porr, who introduced her to this exciting watersport. They are truly like family to her.
Balancing Family and Career
Navigating the complexities of life, Sonja’s journey is marked by her dedication to both her career and family. After a significant hiatus to focus on raising her children, she returned to the workforce with renewed purpose. “It was hard after a long gap,” she recalls, “but I kept pushing through. I’m grateful to have a job that is rewarding and meaningful. I’m thankful that my kids are able to see that their mom plays a small part in improving important water infrastructures, ensuring a safe and reliable water supply for generations to come.” This balance of professional fulfillment and family dedication showcases her ability to manage multiple roles with grace and strength.
Passion for Photography
Sonja’s love for photography goes back to when her dad introduced it to her when she was in elementary school. In high school, she took photography classes that developed into a lifelong passion for preserving precious moments for families, seniors, and weddings. She also enjoys taking pictures of nature and night skies that take her to different places in search of comets, lunar and solar eclipses, and recently the Northern Lights.
The Solar Eclipse Perspective
Sonja’s story about observing and measuring solar prominence during a solar eclipse offers a unique perspective on life. “Measuring the distance of the prominence reminds me that, in the grand scheme of things, we are a small speck. It’s okay if we make mistakes,” she reflects. This understanding helps her maintain a balanced approach to life’s challenges and joys.
Points in Life
Some of Sonja’s high points include earning a highly-competitive and prestigious scholarship that brought her from Indonesia to the United States. Sonja looks back with a sense of pride at her ability to navigate life in a foreign land without familial support, managing not only to survive, but to thrive and raise a family. During this early time, Sonja recalls that she and her husband Kurt masterfully balanced their roles as parents with their academic and professional commitments. Kurt was teaching at the University of Louisville, and they managed childcare by placing a bassinet in Kurt’s office. When Sonja needed to teach her classes, she would hand over their oldest daughter, Aisha, to Kurt and they would swap roles as needed. This arrangement exemplified their teamwork and commitment to both their family and their careers.
Although she never expected to stay permanently, she loves the family and community she has built in Pittsburgh. She values maintaining cultural traditions while embracing other cultures, showcasing the beauty of diversity and inclusion.
An Inspiring Journey
Sonja Svihla’s life encapsulates the essence of passion, perseverance, and empowerment. Whether she’s solving an engineering problem, navigating the waves, playing guitar, chasing comets or the solar eclipse, or leading a fitness class, Sonja exemplifies a spirit that motivates and uplifts others. Her multifaceted journey not only highlights a life lived with purpose, but also serves as a powerful inspiration for women everywhere to pursue their passions with determination and grace. Sonja demonstrates that with courage and a heartfelt dedication to one’s community and interests, the possibilities are limitless.
