https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahasafar 

Provide a brief summary of your practice experience. 

I am a licensed architect with more than 22 years of international experience, including approximately seven years practising in Canada. My work has included project leadership, architectural design, and development-focused work across residential and mixed-use projects. 

I have led projects from early feasibility and site planning through design development, approvals, consultant coordination, and construction documentation. I enjoy working with multidisciplinary teams and finding practical solutions that balance good design, code requirements, approvals, budget, schedule, and the needs of future residents and communities. 

In my current role, I am helping strengthen an in-house architectural function within a development organization. This has given me a valuable perspective on how architects can contribute early and effectively to housing, planning, and project delivery. Throughout my career, I have valued clear communication, teamwork, mentorship, and responsible decision-making. 

Provide a brief summary of your previous governance experience (boards, councils, committees, advisory groups, etc.). 

I have not yet served in a formal governance role on a board, council, or committee. However, throughout my career I have held leadership responsibilities as a team lead and project manager, coordinating consultants, guiding teams, supporting staff, and contributing to important project decisions. 

These experiences have taught me to listen to different perspectives, communicate clearly, and make balanced decisions with accountability. I understand that serving on OAA Council is a responsibility to act in the public interest, and I would approach that responsibility with care, openness, and a willingness to learn. 

Why are you interested in serving on Council at this time? 

After more than 22 years in architecture, I feel ready to give back to the profession in a meaningful way. My experience working in both architectural practice and development has shown me how important the OAA is in maintaining public trust, professional standards, and the value of architects in shaping our communities. 

I am especially interested in bringing a practical perspective from day-to-day project delivery, housing development, approvals, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Ontario is facing real pressure to deliver more housing and stronger communities, while maintaining safety, accessibility, good design, and environmental responsibility. 

I would be honoured to serve on Council, learn from experienced members, and contribute thoughtfully to decisions that affect both the public and the future of our profession. 

What do you believe are the key challenges or priorities for Council over the next one to three years? 

One of Council’s key priorities will be responding to Ontario’s housing needs while continuing to protect the public interest. We need more housing, but it must be safe, accessible, well-designed, sustainable, and built with care for the communities it serves. 

Council should also help the profession respond to changing practice conditions, including more complex approvals, climate resilience, technology, coordination between disciplines, and growing pressure on firms to deliver projects faster and more efficiently. 

Another important priority is supporting a strong and diverse profession. This includes helping emerging practitioners, encouraging respectful workplaces, and ensuring architects have the tools and guidance needed to meet their professional responsibilities. 

I believe Council should remain focused on clear communication, practical and fair regulation, and decisions that strengthen public confidence in architects and the profession. 

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