Newsletter - April 2026

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Message From the President

In a time of rapid global change, AIA International continues to bring together architects, educators, and emerging voices across regions—fostering collaboration, supporting the next generation, and championing architecture as a force for cultural understanding, sustainability, and shared progress. 


As President of the American Institute of Architects International, my goal is to strengthen ...




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Reminder - Don't forget to Renew your Membership for 2026



As AIA International continues to expand its global programmes—from on-demand conferences to the upcoming Global Mentorship Program and growing regional sections—members are encouraged to renew for 2026 and remain part of this dynamic international network. With ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility through tiered dues discounts and financial support options, AIA International remains committed to delivering value, connection, and professional growth opportunities for architects at every stage worldwide.




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2026 AIA International Mentorship Program: Become a Mentor



The 2026 AIA International Mentorship Program is already seeing strong interest, with 74 mentees registered, but there is an urgent need for more mentors, with only 41 currently signed up.


Members are warmly encouraged to consider becoming mentors or to share the opportunity within their networks to help strengthen this valuable initiative.


Registration remains open until June 1, offering time to support and shape the next generation of architects through meaningful professional exchange. 


Kickoff Session, April 24.




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AIA International at AIA26 - The Edge Condition: Global Architecture in Practice



We are pleased to announce the AIA International Global Workshop Speaker Lineup at AIA26!


At AIA26, AIA International will host a half-day workshop examining how architecture operates across geographic, cultural, environmental, and technological “edge conditions” shaping global practice today. Featuring speakers including Illya Azaroff, Chris Williamson, and Segene Park, the session offers a dynamic platform for dialogue on climate-responsive design, humanitarian work, and international collaboration, providing architects with practical insights and strategies for working across diverse global contexts. 




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Strategic Council Update: April 2026



Now in the second year of service on the AIA Strategic Council, this reflection offers a closer look at how the Institute’s “think tank” operates—bringing diverse voices together to shape strategy, elevate member insights, and drive forward-looking initiatives, while also highlighting upcoming opportunities to get involved. 


Thierry Paret invites us to reach out with questions, ideas, or suggestions about any of the Council’s work or broader Board initiatives.




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International College of Fellows Update: April 2026



The announcement of the 2026 AIA College of Fellows marks a proud moment for the profession and the global AIA community—recognizing architects whose work elevates society and the built environment, and celebrating new Fellows. We are especially proud to recognize Bea Sennewald, FAIA, to be honored at AIA26 in San Diego. 

 



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AIA Leadership Summit 2026



At the 2026 Leadership Summit, AIA International joined global peers in Washington, D.C. to advocate for policies supporting housing, design freedom, and sustainability, while also engaging directly with U.S. legislators.


The summit introduced significant new funding mechanisms, including the Strategic Plan Activation Fund, aimed at empowering local and international chapters.




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Young Architects Forum: Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.



At its 2026 annual meeting, the AIA Young Architects Forum brought together representatives from across the U.S. and international chapters to focus on key priorities including career development, future leadership, and well-being for architects within their first ten years of licensure.


Through programs such as mentorship, grants, and knowledge-sharing platforms, YAF continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders, while also presenting new opportunities for AIA International to expand engagement and connect emerging professionals worldwide. 




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AIA International Spring Conference 2026



The AIA International Spring Conference 2026 returned for its sixth edition from March 26–28, bringing together over 1,000 participants from 81 countries in a truly global exchange on this year’s theme, “Shaping Place”.


Spanning 18 time zones and featuring voices from students to leading practitioners, the conference highlighted how architects translate global ideas into locally responsive and sustainable design. With strong participation across international chapters and sessions now available on demand, the event continues to serve as a key platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and continuing education within AIA International. 




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AIA International Member Contribution - What City Are We Building?



As Montevideo revisits its transport system, this piece reminds us that mobility is never just technical—it shapes access, opportunity, and the very structure of the city. Looking beyond infrastructure alone, it calls for a more equitable and forward-thinking vision to guide the metropolis for decades to come. 




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Guest Article - UIA: Global Architectural Leadership in a Changing Environment



As architecture becomes increasingly global, three interconnected organizations shape the profession across borders: the American Institute of Architects, its global extension AIA International, and the International Union of Architects.


While AIA and AIA International focus on advancing professional standards, advocacy, and member engagement across diverse contexts, the UIA operates at a broader institutional scale as a federation of national associations representing over 100 countries. Recognized by the United Nations, the UIA plays...




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AROUND THE WORLD

AIA UK has extended the deadline for its 2026 Design Awards to April 30, offering architects, designers, and students additional time to submit work that demonstrates design excellence and impact, with no membership required. Alongside this upcoming initiative, the chapter has continued an active program of events—from its Annual General Meeting in London to film screenings and technical lectures—highlighting a strong commitment to community engagement, design discourse, and sustainability-focused practice.




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AIA Oceania honours the significant contributions of Donald Campbell Rupert Bailey and Daryl Sanders Jackson, whose work and leadership shaped modern Australian architecture and its global connections.



Recent AIA Oceania initiatives include member gatherings in Sydney, international collaborations, and participation in key events such as the AIA International Spring Conference and the Rafiq Azam Book Launch at the Sydney Opera House.


Looking ahead to the NZIA National Conference to be held in Auckland in September.




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The AIA LATAM Conference returns to Mexico City for its third edition from April 21–23, reaffirming its role as a key international platform for dialogue and collaboration in contemporary architecture.


Featuring France as the guest country, this year’s theme, “Water, Oceans and Architecture”, will explore the relationship between the built environment and natural water systems, bringing together global architects and thought leaders to address sustainability, climate-responsive design, and the future of cities and coastlines.




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The AIA International Spring Conference 2026 opened with a lively gathering at the Roca Beijing Gallery, bringing together members and local architects to celebrate the theme Shaping Place”. The evening blended in-person connection with global dialogue, featuring keynote insights by Seth R. Sulkin on placemaking in Japan and a presentation by Chen Yan on narrative architecture, setting the tone for a conference focused on the intersection of culture, design, and context. 




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AIA Hong Kong has launched into 2026 with a dynamic series of initiatives, including its largest-ever YAG Mentorship cohort, the annual Honors & Awards Celebration, and a new Sustainability Digest promoting awareness and advocacy.


Guided by President Shannon Ho’s theme of “Building Belonging”, these programmes highlight the chapter’s commitment to community, professional development, and environmental leadership, while fostering stronger connections across Hong Kong’s architectural network.




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AIA Continental Europe’s upcoming global programme spans Berlin, Florence, and Marseille, bringing together leading voices, historic and contemporary architecture.


Complemented by new initiatives such as the Women in Architecture and Design Network, the programme reflects a growing commitment to inclusivity, knowledge-sharing, and the evolving priorities of architectural practice. 




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CLOSING THOUGHTS
Virtual Professional and Continuing Education
AIA International offers a variety of online virtual programs to help you fulfil your continuing education requirements.

Keep an eye on our calendar of Upcoming Events here >>

And check out our library of Past Events, where you can watch event recordings and earn CES credits by taking an accompanying quiz here >>

Contact details:

Website: aiainternational.org

Email: administrativedirector@aiainternational.org

AIA International
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