WIA MentoringProgramme2025 Launch, Shifting Perspectives:Seeing the Unseen

This year, we’re excited to launch the 2025 WIA Mentoring Programme with a record-breaking number of applicants and our first-ever event in Manchester!

The evening will celebrate the inspiring mentors and mentees who are part of this year’s programme, providing a platform for fresh perspectives and honouring those committed to personal growth and supporting others.

Our panel discussion, Shifting Perspectives: Seeing the Unseen, will feature our keynote speakers and panellists sharing where they believe perspectives need to shift in the industry. By sharing their unique stories, research &/or experiences, we will discuss aspects of architecture and the wider environment that aren’t seen by all.

Shining a light on new things to raise awareness and positive actions.

Keynotes by

Dr Lucy Montague: Senior Lecturer, Manchester School of Architecture

Rebecca Coley: Head of Planning and Development at Trafford Council

Panellists:

Danny Crump: Director of Urbanism, Layer Studio

Kwame Ohene-Adu: Associate Partner, HTA (Mentor of WIA Mentoring Programme 2025)

Fiona Hunt: Senior Architect, Sheppard Robson (Mentor of WIA Mentoring Programme 2025)

Karolina Olszewska: Architecture Assistant at Simpson Haugh (Mentee)

A special guest will soon be announced, Stay tuned!

Facilitated by

Tania Ihlenfeld: Founder, Ede Enablers, WIA UK Mentoring Programme Lead

Venue, Date & Time

HTA Studio, Clayton House, 59 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 1RN

Tuesday 4th Feb 6 – 9 pm

Agenda

Arrive: 6 – 6.20 pm

Keynote Speakers: 6.20 – 6.40 pm

Panel Conversation: 6.40 – 7.30 pm

Drinks & Networking: 7.30 – 9 pm

Close: 9 pm

There will also be plenty of time to connect, network, and enjoy drinks and nibbles in a welcoming space. This event is open to everyone, with priority given to this year’s programme participants.

Venue Sponsor: HTA Design LLP, Manchester - HTA Design

Photography & Video Sponsors: Lawrence Barraclough from You See Media

Tickets:

• Student £4
• Professionals £8

Online event access and photography

• This event will be recorded. Photos and video will be taken at this event.

Host or Publisher Women in Architecture