I’m an experienced Architectural Assistant currently working at Designsplus Architects. I am honoured to be an  Architects Benevolent Society (ABS) ambassador. This charity is crucial to the architectural profession, and I am dedicated to raising awareness about the invaluable services and support it provides to those in need.

My role at Designsplus Architects involves transforming existing and historic structures with minimal environmental impact, reflecting our commitment to sustainable refurbishment. This job has shown me firsthand how meaningful work and a supportive environment can positively impact mental health. Promoting good mental health practices as preventative measures is essential, which is why I admire ABS’s partnerships with Anxiety UK and Shelter to offer help before crises.

I plan to pursue my Part 2 studies in 2024 and am committed to promoting ABS’s services to students and professionals alike. As a member of the RIBA Buckinghamshire Branch, I aim to extend ABS’s reach within my growing professional network.

In early 2024, I became a Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®). Learning about the long waiting times for NHS mental health services motivated me to advocate for professional conversations about mental health and encourage seeking alternative support during these periods. ABS provides extensive, individually tailored services to architects, students, and their families, which are commendable.

As an ABS Ambassador, I aim to engage with students and professionals, raise awareness of available support, and promote positive mental health and well-being.

Nikolina is an Architectural Assistant at Eric Parry Architects, currently completing her Part 3 Qualification at the University of Westminster. She holds an Master’s degree with Distinction from the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, where in 2021 she was awarded the Ambrose Poynter Prize for Outstanding Architectural Thesis.

Nikolina is deeply passionate about celebrating diversity and multiculturalism in the architectural profession. She strongly believes that sharing knowledge within academia and practice is fundamental to establishing sustainable and empowering environment, supporting young architects in the pursuit of their professional aspirations. Hence, in the past year, Nikolina has become a mentor on the Building Future Programme at Blueprint for All.

In her role as an ABS Ambassador, Nikolina is enthusiastic about continuing to engage with students and young architects, transitioning from academia to practice. As a graduate during the pandemic, she values the importance of a strong community and healthy personal habits for maintaining one’s mental wellness. With her engagement in ABS, Nikolina will continue to raise awareness about mental health in the architectural field, broadening ABS’s outreach and impact.

I first gained knowledge of the Architects Benevolent Society when, during my masters, they hosted an event at the Sheffield School of Architecture. In collaboration with the RIBA, ABS sought to raise awareness of mental wellbeing among architecture students and practitioners, and presented the services they could offer those experiencing hardship. Subsequently I used their services to deal with my own mental health needs, and was incredibly impressed with the support ABS staff offered, and the pace with which I was able to access appropriate mental health provision. I believe the intensity of the profession often leads to the neglect of the mental health of its practitioners. Without the work of ABS I know many within the profession would be suffering.

As an Ambassador I have used my role to promote the work of the charity, including hosting a virtual event for Sheffield School of Architecture students (with support from the University’s mental health services). I have also fundraised for the organisation.

ABS is a fantastic charity, providing essential support to architectural practitioners and their families, and I am excited to continue to work in partnership with the organisation.

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