Dear Fellow Architects,

My name is Rachel Sun. I want to run for OAA council of 2025, the seat of Province of Ontario.

In addition to the common topics such as sustainable architecture, design excellence and so on, I will advocate for the following aspects if elected.

1. Standard fee enforcement
2. The leadership of architects
3. Proactive responses to immigration challenges

1. STANDARD FEE ENFORCEMENT
   
   OAA architects invest significant effort in their education, internships, and exams, and we deserve fair compensation, whether working for large firms or as sole proprietors. Architect service fees are minimal compared to the building's lifecycle and are often outweighed by the creativity we contribute. Reasonable fees are crucial for project success, and cutting these costs is short-sighted.
   
   It's unrealistic to expect a uniform fee standard for all firms. I will advocate for OAA to survey and adjust RAIC's fee guidelines to reflect the size of different architectural practices. Additionally, OAA should establish a committee to enforce fee standards through supervision and investigation, protecting the public interest by ensuring quality services.
   
   
2. THE LEADERSHIP OF ARCHITECTS
   
   The architects' 3Es have equipped us to become leaders in the field and formulators of relevant systems. Currently, no successful buildings have been led by a non-architect. For years, the neglect of architects' leadership and full services has contributed to the deterioration of our urban landscapes and has resulted in ongoing construction accidents.
   
   I want to thank OAA for their past efforts. I'm pleased to see that some public building tenders now explicitly require architectural leadership and full-service engagement. However, this is still not enough. Architects' full services should be promoted more widely throughout the construction industry, and their leadership must extend to the development of relevant policies and laws.
   
   
3. PROACTIVE RESPONSES TO IMMIGRATION CHALLENGES
   
   Canada's cultural mosaic is shaped by immigrants, particularly in cities like Toronto and Ottawa, where they will soon be the majority. Their presence has invigorated our cities, driving economic growth and creating new opportunities for architects.
   
   However, cultural and ideological differences present challenges. In my eight years of practice, I have seen issues arising from these influences, which have caught the attention of Canadian governments. The construction industry is often a gateway for new immigrants, yet its risks are often overlooked. Recent incidents, like the collapse of a luxury apartment in Niagara Falls, underscore the need for updated OAA strategies.
   
   I support OAA's commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and its five-year strategic plan. We must broaden our focus to include all ethnic communities. As a minority architect with international training, I feel I have a unique mission to contribute.
   
   
   QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES
   
   I am an OAA architect in Toronto with over 25 years in architecture and construction. Eight years ago, I founded my own practice after obtaining my OAA license through the ExAC. I primarily serve the Greater Toronto Area but also work across Ontario.
   
   Previously, I gained diverse experience in various architectural firms in Toronto and Vancouver, handling institutional, commercial, and residential projects both domestically and internationally. I hold bachelor and master’s degrees in architecture from China and studied at UBC, earning the CACB certificate for OAA admission. I'm also a member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and a LEED AP.
   
   My volunteer work includes mentoring intern architects, delivering community lectures, and advocating for OAA architects through writing on media. I have been serving as a Council member (2023-25) for an Ontario secondary school and will be serving York Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (2024-26), promoting the profession to future generations. I participated the OAA Council election last year representing Toronto and became a candidate.
   
   My experiences have shaped my perspective on architecture. Initially, I believed that adhering to OAA regulations was sufficient to protect public interests. However, my practice has shown me that we must take a more proactive role in shaping our profession.
   
   MY MISSIONS/VISIONS
   
   My joining the council will enhance its diversity and help OAA understand the complex issues in the construction industry. By focusing on ethnic cultures and cultural nuances, we can better identify strengths and address challenges effectively.
   
   With my background and experience, I am confident that I can help the OAA Council navigate complex situations, shaping the self-governance of our profession. OAA serves all members, regardless of their origin, and I am committed to ensuring the organization represents everyone's interests.
   
   Thank you for considering me as a candidate for the OAA Council of 2025. Together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant architectural vision for all.

 

LinkedIn Profile - Rachel Sun

 

Questions and Answers