Sam is an architect and illustrator who currently works at Chetwoods Architects. Sam’s work primarily focuses on conceptual design, community engagement and promoting EDI within the workplace.

Sam is proudly queer and neurodivergent, and is incredibly passionate about promoting trans rights, as well as encouraging healthy working environments for people within the neurodivergent rainbow.

As a proud union member, Sam loves being a mentor for recent graduates and has built great connections with Built By Us and the Architects Benevolent Society, as well as being a Young Trustee for the Architecture Foundation.

Sam became an ambassador for the ABS after contributing to and joining numerous events. “It’s been such a difficult profession to work in, especially over the last 15 years, with what feels like an endless number of recessions, Brexit, the pandemic. People coming into the profession need to feel secure and welcome within their practice, but there are these constant hurdles that can easily overwhelm us. Having an ally like the ABS makes it feel a little bit more manageable”

As an architectural and urban designer who has personally experienced the challenges of unemployment and financial hardship, I deeply appreciate the support and assistance provided by the Architects Benevolent Society (ABS) during a difficult period in my career. The organisation’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of architectural workers and their families resonates strongly with me, and I am eager to give back to the community that has supported me.

I am passionate about using my professional expertise, personal resilience, and empathy to make a positive impact on the lives of others in the architectural field. As an ABS Ambassador, I aim to raise awareness about the vital services offered by the organisation, encourage individuals to seek help when needed, and foster a supportive and inclusive environment within the profession. By dedicating my time and skills to this cause, I hope to ensure that no architectural worker faces adversity alone.

I first learnt about The Architects Benevolent Society in 2022 as an undergraduate Architecture student at Manchester School of Architecture, and as a member and chair of the Manchester Student Society of Architecture (MSSA). Since then I have wanted to get involved as an ambassador as I feel aligned with the goals and fundamental values of ABS. I found a lot of growth in learning about and how to manage my mental health as a student and wish to be a part of a network that creates resources to help young people navigate this profession, as I myself grow in my career. I am very excited to be an ambassador and look forward to it!

I first learnt about Architects Benevolent Society in 2022 as an undergraduate Architecture student at Manchester School of Architecture, and as a member and chair of the Manchester Student Society of Architecture (MSSA). Since then I have wanted to get involved as an ambassador as I feel aligned with the goals and fundamental values of ABS. I found a lot of growth in learning about and how to manage my mental health as a student and wish to be a part of a network that creates resources to help young people navigate this profession, as I myself grow in my career. I am very excited to be an ambassador and look forward to it!

I discovered the Architects Benevolent Society through another Ambassador which emphasises the importance of the Ambassador programme in raising awareness across the industry. I approached ABS for their support and services for my own mental health. I felt extremely fortunate to have access to their services and conscious that this is not always the case beyond our industry. ABS can profoundly improve people’s situations if those that are experiencing challenging times. I am determined to help fundraise for ABS and extend their outreach by promoting their wonderful work and services to as many people as I can.

The pressures in the architectural profession have the potential to sideline mental health across a range of workplaces, and an even greater reduction in visibility for those in smaller workplaces. As a qualified architect in a small startup practice I am passionate that all workplaces across the UK should have the same awareness and access to services across the board.

ABS offers a vital range of services to those in our industry and those associated with them. I am keen to do my best to help raise awareness of their invaluable services and encourage people to be open and transparent in seeking out support.

Marina is an architect working for Hayhurst and Co in London. After completing her Bsc[hons] and M[arch] Architectural studies at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, she moved to London where she passed her Part 3 qualification in 2023 at the University of Westminster. Marina has also volunteered in Access Aspiration programme and is gradually exploring different means to contribute in processes that address principles of place-making and social engagement.

Following personal challenges during both her academic and professional journey, she is motivated to raise mental health awareness, offer support to individuals that may be facing similar or different challenges. The Architect’s Benevolent Society offers support and promotes collective values that are integral to the wellbeing and prosperity of the Architectural community. Being an Ambassador for the Architect’s Benevolent Society offers an invaluable opportunity to contribute to the multitude of causes the Society supports, raise collective awareness and empathy within the profession.

Joshua is an architect working at Eric Parry Architects, after recently completing his Part 3 Qualification at the University of Westminster. He completed his Master’s degree at the Mackintosh School of Architecture, The Glasgow School of Art whilst also spending a semester in Iceland.

Joshua is passionate about engaging with the community and supporting people to achieve their goals, which also see him as a mentor on the Building Future Programme at Blueprint for All, supporting students in architecture in their studies. Furthermore, his passion for engaging with the community has led to him becoming a Local Authority School Governor, in Southwest London helping a school navigate through a masterplan redevelopment. Joshua is also a Community Leader for the charity ONE Campaign which aims to eradicate preventable diseases and extreme poverty by 2030.

He first became aware of ABS’s work through the annual Chicken Run in London, in which he learnt about the remarkable work that ABS do throughout the architecture profession, which has led him to be more engaged with ABS and promote its message throughout the field. As an ABS Ambassador, he aims to promote and support the architectural community particularly fostering and supporting future generations of architects going through their studies and helping broaden the impact of ABS, helping it reach more of the profession and supporting its members.

ABS is a fantastic organisation, which I am delighted to be a part of. I first learned of the organisation during my master’s education and, now as a qualified architect, I am excited to dedicate time to spreading the word, helping run events and supporting their ongoing work.

Throughout my education and career, I have remained passionate about promoting inclusivity and diversity within the architectural industry, and I aim to support and encourage accessibility within the field. I believe financial support, outreach activities and social events are great tools to help towards achieving this.

I believe it is essential for all individuals to receive support for mental health and well-being. I am delighted that ABS is taking practical measures to provide this support within the architectural profession.

I am honoured to be a part of ABS’ work to support and bolster the profession to provide services for those who would benefit from some support.