Architects in the CONTEXT of 2021
As we navigate to a new year and a new decade, we are filled with hope and optimism, eager to make a change, rise to the challenges, re-connect with each other, and hoping to share good economic growth.
Leaving 2020 behind, a year that has challenged and changed all of us by its events, raises the question of what did we learn? and how to translate these lessons into opportunities in 2021?
As part of our response and to be more relevant to the context of 2021, I am proud to announce that we are starting two new committees, The Committee on the Environment (COTE), and Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Committee (EDI). These two new committees will spearhead the chapter’s effort in creating a more inclusive profession and mitigating climate change through design excellence. We are also planning more educational programs, learning sessions, and outreach to local governments. We want to have more intimate discussions with our planners, city officials, and policy makers regarding housing affordability, ADUs, zoning, and other policies.
To achieve all of this and to support our community of architects, we need your involvement, your ideas, and your feedback. I want to invite all of you to join the chapter as members, allied members, sponsors, and to join the chapter’s committees. Together is the only way to have a successful year and to make a difference.
For me, I first wanted to join the Emerging Professionals Committee and the board to start a series of study sessions and motivate other emerging professionals to pass their exams. I remember holding the first session in February 2019 not knowing what to expect or how many people would show up, I was thrilled by the attendance of over 40 passionate young architects. The group continued coming month after month eager to learn and to pass their exams. When the pandemic hit, we moved the platform online and started getting people from all over the bay area, southern California, and sometimes other states. And my happiest moments are when I receive a call from a member of the study group telling me that they passed their exams and got their license.
Whether your passion is in helping and mentoring our emerging professionals, creating a more inclusive community, mitigating climate change, or having more involvement in local policy, joining a committee would be the way to do that.
Feel free to reach out to me anytime. I am eager to hear from you, even if it is just a hello :)
Mohammed Sedqi, AIA
2021 AIASMC Chapter President
[email protected]
Cell (925)915-0008