EQN Summer Social

Thank you everyone who joined us on the roof terrace on Tuesday evening. It was a fantastic turnout and despite the heat, it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces, as well as lots of new people attending an EQN event for the first time.

It was rewarding to hear several people say ‘I hadn’t heard of EQN but my friend / colleague invited me along and now I want to get involved. How do I join?’ That’s exactly how networks like ours grow – one conversation, one introduction and one connection at a time.

Our chair, Yasmin Al-Ani Spence reminded us why EQN exists and why our work is still so important. Using architecture as an example, she highlighted that although women make up 50% of those studying the subject at university, fewer than a third of registered architects are female, with an even smaller proportion reaching leadership positions. She challenged us to think differently, approaching the challenge as we would the future-proofing of a building: allowing for flexibility, working collaboratively, learning from experience and designing inclusively.

We were also privileged to hear from newly elected RIBA President, Jay Morton, who reflected on the role that networks and advocates have played throughout her career. She spoke about the encouragement and support she received, giving her the confidence to put herself forward for the role. It was a powerful reminder of the role networks like ours can play in helping women recognise their potential and take the next step.

Together, those messages perfectly captured what EQN is all about. Creating connections. Building confidence. Opening doors. Championing one another. And helping more women see and achieve a future for themselves as leaders in the built environment.

The work we do is only possible because of the support of our members, partners and wider community. Thank you to everyone who continues to support EQN and the work we do.

If you haven’t yet joined the network but would like to, membership is completely free and we’d love to welcome you.

A huge thank you to Perkins&Will for hosting us and providing such a fantastic setting for the evening.