Women in Architecture (WiA) has confirmed its involvement with The UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). The UKREiiF event is in partnership with Pagabo, and is set to take place between 21-23 May 2024, in Leeds.

Women in Architecture UK (WiA) stands as a passionate, volunteer-driven force dedicated to empowering women across architecture and the wider built environment. At its core, WiA cultivates a vibrant platform fostering discussion, idea exchange, and robust support networks for women in all facets of architecture, including practice, education, and associated fields.

Their primary aim revolves around shining a spotlight on women’s impactful contributions to architecture while actively advocating for their progression within the profession. WiA confronts the deep-seated gender imbalances by addressing institutional, structural, and cultural barriers hindering women’s advancement in architecture and education. Their mission extends beyond retention; it’s about amplifying the voices of women architects, reshaping historical narratives, and championing diversity within the architectural realm.WiA’s commitment to disrupting the conventional architectural narrative, which has often sidelined or obscured women’s roles, remains unwavering.

They actively support, inspire, and champion women architects, sparking a much-needed transformation within the architectural community. Their efforts promise not just a positive impact on the built environment but also serve as a wellspring of inspiration for future generations, fostering an inclusive and dynamic landscape for aspiring architects.

The collaboration between UKREiiF and Women in Architecture resonates deeply with UKREiiF’s overarching commitment to championing diversity and inclusivity. By partnering with Women in Architecture, UKREiiF embraces a collective vision for an inclusive industry. This alliance symbolises a united dedication to cultivating an environment where diverse voices and perspectives are not only acknowledged but enthusiastically embraced and honoured. UKREiiF and Women in Architecture are catalysing a culture where inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword but an active, celebrated reality within the architectural landscape.

Speaking of their involvement Igea Troiani, Chair of WiA said: “’We were thrilled with the support and opportunities that the UKREiiF team  offered us in 2023. Working with us so positively has given our members enhanced opportunities to network and discuss topics that are important to not only Women in Architecture UK, but also affect the whole profession and industry. Our thanks goes out to UKREiiF, and we look forward to doing more great things together in 2024.”

Nathan Spencer, Director at UKREiiF, said: “We struck up a partnership with Women in Architecture for UKREiiF 2023 and we were impressed by not only the strength of their network and activity they hosted at UKREiiF, but also their approach to collaboration – sharing feedback from their network on how events like UKREiiF can become more inclusive and welcoming to all. Several suggestions they have made have been implemented for UKREiiF 2024 and we welcome this type of relationship that not only improves the event, but also provides more opportunities for a more inclusive industry. This is one of over fifty partnerships we have from a D&I perspective at UKREiiF as we aim to create an event which is more representative of society than the industry, and we’re delighted to have WIA’s support in this.”

Led by the UK’s leading property events company Built Environment Networking and supported by some of the biggest UK property and infrastructure companies, the third annual UKREiiF event will be held in Leeds on 21-23 May 2024. The forum will attract inward investment, generate economic growth, and drive a more sustainable and inclusive culture within the property and construction industries.

For more information, please view the event here: https://www.ukreiif.com/