On Thursday 7 March, in celebration of International Women’s Day 2019, RIBA East Midlands hosted a free event for existing and prospective members at New Art Exchange in Nottingham, a RIBA Award-winning Building by Hawkins\Brown. The event was generously sponsored by Ibstock.
The evening began with a delicious South Indian buffet and drinks reception, along with an opportunity for attendees to have a look around the venue’s gallery and exhibition spaces.
Proceedings then moved to the adjacent performance space, where guests were welcomed by RIBA East Midlands Partnerships Manager, Lucy Grierson, who handed over to Vice President for Membership, RIBA, Dr Valeria Passetti, who gave a presentation outlining some of the current challenges for women working in the profession.
After Valeria’s talk, special guests Kate Murphy, Partner, Foster and Partners and Susan Le Good, Associate Director, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) both gave presentations about their practices’ Award-winning work including Stirling Prize-winning projects Bloomberg and Burntwood School.
There then followed a panel discussion with all of the speakers, chaired by Alison Davies of Urban Fabric Architects. The discussion was wide-ranging and included many of the issues women in the built environment face including the juggle between work and family, but also issues of confidence and feeling comfortable in a predominantly male-dominated workplace.
The event was rounded off with networking and conversation in the New Art Exchange Café Bar. Over 60 people attended and we were delighted to be joined by Maxine McKenzie, RIBA Executive Director Marketing and Membership, as well as Ben Wildsmith, Senior Territory Manager, Ibstock Brick Ltd.
As a result of the evening and many of the views expressed, there are now plans to set up a Women in Architecture Group in the East Midlands, working with members and students with support from the RIBA East Midlands team. For further details, please contact Lucy Grierson.
