Paving the Way for Young Architects: Planning HKIA’s Future
HKIA Delegation at the UIA World Congress 2026
In 2018, 23 HKIA members participated in the Council Election for the 2019–2020 term. Among them, 14 ran for positions as Office Bearers, while the remaining 9 pursued 10 Council Member seats, all being elected ipso facto. Fast forward to the Council Election for the 2027–2028 term, only 17 candidates stepped forward, and again, the 9 Council Member candidates were elected ipso facto for the 10 vacancies.
Despite an encouraging 28% increase in HKIA membership over a span of 8 years—from over 3,500 in 2018 to more than 4,500 in 2026—active engagement in the Institute has declined. This participation gap signals the need for HKIA to review its operational structure and develop a long-term strategy to inspire members, particularly younger architects, to contribute to the Institute, thereby enhancing opportunities for upward mobility.
The growing workload of HKIA’s Boards reflect the rapid evolution of our professional environment: updates to statutory controls, emerging knowledge domains, technological advancements, and shifting business markets. To effectively manage these challenges, the formation of more specialized taskforces is essential. However, this requires a proactive recruitment strategy to attract and encourage members to participate.
Promoting the HKIA Exhibition in Kuala Lumpur
Embracing Experience While Empowering New Talent
The adoption of a robust advisor system is a promising way forward. In the past, long-serving members often transitioned into advisory roles, contributing their expertise while creating space for new voices in Committees and Boards. However, this practice has not been consistently implemented across all areas of the Institute’s operations.
To address this, HKIA should fully embrace the advisor model, ensuring that vacant seats are available for new members eager to contribute and grow. This system will also encourage veteran Council members to pass down their experience and insights to the next generation, fostering inclusiveness and preventing the prolonged monopolization of leadership roles. After all, the Institute belongs to all members, and its governance must reflect diversity, inclusiveness, and forward-looking planning.
The HKIA Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (Photo via hkia.net)
For HKIA to thrive, we must grow alongside our members. Young architects represent our future, and we need thoughtful planning to empower and prepare them for the challenges ahead. By making space for emerging professionals, cultivating inclusivity, and building robust systems, we can ensure the sustained growth and relevance of our Institute.
Join me on 14 August at the Election Forum as I present my aspirations for the future of the Institute.
HKIA Election Forum
Date: 14 August 2026, Friday
Time: 7:30pm-9:00pm
Venue: HKIA Premises
Format: Hybrid, Open to HKIA Members only (pre-registration required)
Full details: Click here.
— Thomas
