The Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) has launched a significant survey to gather insights from young architects and architecture students across the Commonwealth.

This initiative aims to highlight their perspectives, aspirations and challenges, ensuring their voices contribute to shaping the future of the profession through policy, education and training.

Architecture is undergoing rapid transformation as it faces global challenges such as climate change, urbanisation and the need for more sustainable design solutions. In this evolving landscape, the views of young professionals are essential. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative thinking and a deep understanding of how architecture must adapt to contemporary needs. Recognising this, the CAA has developed this survey as a platform for emerging professionals to share their experiences and concerns, ensuring they help shape policies that will define the profession in the coming years.

CAA youth representative Hugo Chan underscores the importance of the initiative, stating:

“The future belongs to the next generation of professionals. By engaging young architects and students in meaningful dialogue, we can foster an inclusive, forward-thinking profession that responds effectively to the evolving needs of our communities and those we design for. This survey represents a key step in amplifying youth perspectives and integrating their insights into decision-making processes.”

The survey is open to young architects, students and emerging professionals between the ages of 18 and 35 from around the world, with a particular focus on those in Commonwealth countries. The responses collected will form the basis of a comprehensive report, set to be released in late 2025. This report will be shared with industry leaders, policymakers and academic institutions to drive meaningful change within the profession.

By providing a space for young voices to be heard, the CAA hopes to encourage a profession that is more inclusive, adaptive and responsive to contemporary challenges. The survey aims to identify key areas of concern for young architects, including access to education and training, employment opportunities, sustainability in design and the role of architecture in addressing social issues.

One of the central objectives of this initiative is to ensure that the concerns of young professionals are not only acknowledged but actively inform decision-making at both institutional and policy levels. The findings will serve as a guide for organisations and governments looking to create supportive frameworks that help young architects thrive.

Participation in the survey is a unique opportunity for young professionals to contribute to the future direction of architecture. Their input will help shape strategies that support the profession’s evolution and ensure it remains relevant in addressing global challenges.

The CAA encourages all eligible participants to take part in this important initiative. The survey is available online via CAA Microsoft Forms and will remain open until 30 June 2025.

For further information, visit the CAA website.