Muyiwa Oki

Muyiwa Oki is a British architect who made history in 2023 by becoming the youngest-ever and first Black president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). His election, secured with a campaign focused on improving working conditions and championing social value within the profession, marked a significant shift for the 190-year-old institution. Oki's tenure is defined by advocacy for fairer pay, better working hours, and a more inclusive and sustainable future for architecture in the United Kingdom and globally.

Early life and education

Born in London around 1992, Muyiwa Oki spent part of his childhood in Nigeria before returning to the United Kingdom. He pursued his architectural education at the University of Sheffield, where he earned his Part 1 qualification, a foundational stage in UK architectural training. He later completed his Part 2 studies at the Bartlett School of Architecture, part of University College London, known for its innovative and experimental approach to design. His early professional experience included roles at major practices such as Grimshaw Architects and Mace Group, where he worked on complex projects including the London Euston station redevelopment.

Career

Oki's professional career has been shaped by his work on large-scale infrastructure and development projects. At Grimshaw Architects, he contributed to significant transport-oriented designs, gaining experience in the intersection of public space and engineering. His subsequent role as a architectural assistant at the construction and consultancy firm Mace Group involved him in the high-profile redevelopment of London Euston, a major national rail terminus. This period solidified his understanding of the practical, commercial, and social challenges within the construction industry in the United Kingdom. Throughout his early career, he became an active voice within the Royal Institute of British Architects, contributing to discussions on labor practices and equity.

RIBA presidency

Muyiwa Oki was elected President of the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2023, defeating candidate Jo Bacon. His campaign platform, "A Manifesto for Change," directly addressed long-standing issues of low pay, excessive unpaid overtime, and poor mental health within the architectural profession. Upon taking office, he immediately called for the implementation of a mandatory charter to end exploitative practices in architectural education and employment. His presidency has emphasized strengthening the institute's stance on the climate crisis, advocating for retrofitting existing buildings and embedding embodied carbon targets into the RIBA Plan of Work. He has also sought to deepen international collaboration, engaging with bodies like the International Union of Architects.

Political views and activism

Oki identifies as a socialist and frames architectural practice through a lens of social justice and collective action. He is a vocal critic of what he terms the "culture of exploitation" in architecture, frequently citing the need for unionization and has expressed support for the Trade Union Congress. His activism extends to environmental issues, where he advocates for architects to lead on sustainability and climate adaptation, aligning with goals set by the United Nations Climate Change conference. He has been critical of the Conservative Party (UK) government's planning reforms and their approach to social housing, arguing for policies that prioritize community benefit over developer profit.

Personal life

Muyiwa Oki maintains a relatively private personal life but has spoken publicly about the influence of his multicultural background on his worldview. He is an avid reader of political theory and history. During his campaign and presidency, he has highlighted the importance of mentorship and creating accessible pathways into architecture for people from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from Black British communities. He continues to practice as an architect alongside his presidential duties, believing in the importance of remaining connected to the day-to-day realities of the profession. Category:1990s births Category:British architects Category:Alumni of the University of Sheffield Category:Alumni of University College London Category:Presidents of the Royal Institute of British Architects Category:People from London