First Black RIBA President Explains Priorities

MUYIWA OKI, the youngest-ever and first Black president in RIBA’s 189-year history, has spoken about his priorities.

Muyiwa Oki, the new President of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), has used his first day in office (1 September) to say that architecture “must go further and faster on innovation and change, considering the scale and complexity of the challenges in society.”

Muyiwa Oki said “a fundamental shift” is needed for the architectural profession to “demonstrate its relevance and importance in today’s world and inspire the next generation of architects.”

Climate Action, Inclusion and Innovation

On the first day of his two-year elected term in office, Muyiwa pledged to lead a concerted focus on sustainability and climate action, address a lack of inclusion in the profession, and champion the adoption of innovative methods and technologies.

Muyiwa Oki said he would advocate for decarbonising the built environment, and promoting sustainable design and construction practices, including retrofit. He called on policymakers to pursue effective climate action, including delivery of “a robust strategy for minimising the carbon impact from buildings”.

While in office, the new President also promised to focus on measures to make architecture “fairer, more welcoming and inclusive.”

RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said: “I am conscious that this is a critical time to take on the role of RIBA President, as we grapple with huge, global challenges: the rising cost of living, widening social inequality and, of course, the climate emergency. As architects, we are stewards of our planet’s future and I believe it is vital that every architect sees themselves as an agent of change. An immense collective effort is needed.

“However, to reach its full potential, the profession needs to change. A more diverse and inclusive industry is essential to delivering architecture that is responsive to the needs of everyone in society.

“Excellence in design remains at the heart of architecture, but skills such as leadership, collaboration, and the ability to harness new technologies, are equally important to the future resilience of the profession. We must learn to blend creativity and ingenuity with technology to create spaces that can withstand the test of time and positively impact the lives of people living today and in the future.”

Muyiwa Oki’s term as RIBA President is from 1 September 2023 to 31 August 2025. He takes over the role from Simon Allford (RIBA President), architect, co-founder and director of Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM).

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