Hi, I am Kunal. I am a Licensed Architect in Ontario committed to advancing the public interest through inclusive, transparent, and forward-looking professional governance. I believe architecture plays a vital role not only in shaping the built environment but also in building civic trust, sustainability, and community connection.

For the past three years, I have served as a volunteer member of the Ottawa Regional Society of Architects (ORSA), contributing to local advocacy and professional engagement. This year, I was proud to serve as Co-Chair of Ottawa Architecture Week (OAW)—an entirely volunteer-led festival that spanned more than 20 events and attracted over 2,000 attendees. Through this initiative, I helped bring together architects, students, policymakers, and the public to engage in dialogue on design, climate resilience, and the cultural importance of architecture in our communities.

In parallel, my role as a Director with the McGill Alumni Association in Ottawa has strengthened my governance, leadership, and strategic planning experience—skills I believe are essential for effective service on Council.

Aligned with the Council 101 principles and the OAA’s regulatory mandate, my priorities for the 2025–2027 term are:

Fair and Transparent Procurement: Advocate for open and equitable RFP/RFQ processes for publicly funded projects, ensuring fair access for emerging practices and a greater focus on design excellence, innovation, and sustainability.

Climate Leadership and Resilient Design: Support initiatives that advance low-carbon, adaptive, and sustainable architecture, in line with the updated OBC and NBC 2024.

Professional Development and Mentorship: Strengthen mentorship networks and learning opportunities to help members and interns remain conversant with evolving codes, technologies, and professional standards.

Education and Collaboration: Build stronger partnerships between the OAA, Ontario’s schools of architecture, and allied professions to prepare future architects for a collaborative and rapidly changing practice environment.

Diversity and Inclusive Governance: Foster a Council culture that values diverse perspectives, encourages open dialogue, and reflects the communities we serve.

If elected, I will bring my experience in community building, governance, and collaborative leadership to help the OAA remain a trusted, transparent, and forward-looking regulator—one that upholds excellence in practice and protects the public interest.

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kunal-rakshit/

 

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