On Friday 12 July, RIBA representatives from across the UK came together at 66 Portland Place, London for the 2024 UK Members Forum. The annual meeting allowed members to hear from senior RIBA figures on policy, best practice, and volunteer support. It also allowed fellow members to meet and share our experiences as grassroots volunteers.
The day included interesting discussions about potential risks and opportunities for the future of the profession, building on research outlined in the RIBA 2034 Horizons. We also had the opportunity to provide feedback and suggestions on House of Architecture, delving into the plans to improve the institute through new digital technology, work to make RIBA’s globally recognised architectural collections more accessible, and the refurbishment programme for 66 Portland Place (on a day when both lifts broke down!).
With over 60 RIBA groups represented, it was inspiring to shine a spotlight on volunteer activity across the UK in one of my favourite parts of the day: the volunteer celebrations.
We heard from Caroline Shortt and Roxanne Townsend about their work in Exeter rekindling volunteer action with a programme of activities to get people involved again and restart conversations around important issues like conservation and placemaking.
Gavin Traylor from the Royal Society of Architects in Wales shared his experience consulting with members to identify the key issues affecting architects in Wales and develop a strategy for better support and communication.
Luke Sach showcased the positive impact of thought-provoking debate in Leeds by reviving the 4x4 series; a successful programme of talks and debates over four weeks tackling issues such as design quality and planning. A great way to spark conversation and share knowledge with fellow architects, local authorities, and the public.
From the West Midlands, regional director Matt Blakeley and student Hamaam Shire shared their experience working with the Birmingham Youth Panel to raise awareness around urban design and encourage younger people to consider a career in architecture. As a law student, Hamaam wasn’t always as aware of the influence of the built environment on society but after getting involved he now has a better understanding; so much so he joined the RIBA Regional Awards jury as a lay assessor this year.
Chun-Li Reid from North London also shared her creative approach to raising awareness of social issues such as homelessness through her online series ‘Cooking with an Architect’. What better way to raise the profile of architecture for social value than while cooking a meal and sharing the recipe online.
"As RIBA Vice President Membership my role is to represent our network of members across the UK and internationally. Sometimes this means taking members’ professional concerns to Council; it can mean building bridges between architects and students to foster a more inclusive profession; and sometimes it means supporting events like the RIBA UK Members Forum.
Nothing makes me prouder to be a RIBA member, and nothing gives me more enthusiasm for volunteering, than seeing the work of fellow grassroots members.
In our professional capacity we continue to learn as architects, and we equally grow in our experience as volunteers. It’s always great to try new ideas and share our success stories so that current and future RIBA members have an institute that engages with us, supports us, and helps us build a better profession.
Thank you to every member who gives up time to support the institute.
You are RIBA."
