GENDER, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & IMPACT (gedi) COMMITTEE

South Australian Chapter – Australian Institute of Architects

The SA Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects is proud to introduce the newly formed Gender, Equity, Diversity & Impact (GEDI) Committee, established to foster a more inclusive, representative, and responsive architectural profession.

This dynamic committee has been formed with a clear focus on advocacy, action, and accountability. GEDI aims to deliver targeted initiatives that support members and elevate industry practices through the lens of gender, equity and diversity.

 

The GEDI Committee exists to:

  • Champion equitable practices within the architectural profession.
  • Support underrepresented voices, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ communities, parents and caregivers, and others experiencing marginalisation.
  • Collaborate with AIA taskforces, SONA, EmAGN, and other stakeholders on meaningful programs and events.
  • Provide strategic input to the SA Chapter Council on issues of gender equity, cultural inclusion, access and representation.
  • Develop and deliver initiatives including targeted networking events, communications campaigns, research and engagement with national GEDI efforts, and an SA Chapter event for International Women’s Day.

With a strong focus on sustainability and legacy, the committee is structured to ensure continuity and impact beyond individual terms of service.

MEET THE COMMITTEE

COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS

Jasmine Placentino
PARABOLICA

  

Jasmine is co-founder of Parabolica, a studio practising across Adelaide and Melbourne. As a mother of two young children, she is committed to supporting women and parents in architecture, with a vision for greater equity and stronger representation of women in leadership. Alongside practice, she co-chairs EmAGN SA and mentors through the AIA’s National Mentoring Program, guiding early-career practitioners as they navigate the profession. She is actively working to foster a strong design culture in South Australia, where emerging architects are supported across diverse ages, experiences, and cultural backgrounds. Recognising a gap in advocacy within the SA Chapter, Jasmine established the GEDI Committee to ensure equity and representation within the local profession.

Brychan Asaris
Russell & Yelland

Brychan sits on the AIA’s National Committee for Gender Equity and brings this broad perspective to his role as co-chair of the SA Chapter GEDI Committee. Designing spaces that help and heal is a guiding force in his practice, and since joining Russell & Yelland in 2024 he has contributed expertise in education, health, and aged care projects – including one of South Australia’s first specialist mental health rehabilitation units in Noarlunga. A natural mentor, Brychan values collaboration without ego and equitable input across teams. He also chairs the ArchiEd Committee and contributes to Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives through Learning Environments Australasia.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Sarah Burton
Hames Sharley

 

Sarah’s lived experiences have shaped a deep empathy for the role of home, community, and wellbeing in architecture. With a creative background and commitment to social change, she challenges stigma and supports those facing adversity. At Hames Sharley, she brings sensitivity and innovation to diverse projects. Her industry advocacy was recognised by the National Association of Women in Construction, awarding her Graduate of the Year. Passionate about equity, Sarah champions mental health awareness, sustainable workplace cultures, and inclusivity across gender, age, and experience. She joined the GEDI Committee with these goals in mind. For her, equity and diversity are deeply personal convictions.

Reem Daou
Russell & Yelland

Reem works at Russell & Yelland on education and aged care projects, extending her passion for designing with and for community. As the 2023 Jack Hobbs McConnell Travelling Fellow, she explored international approaches to social sustainability and resilient communities. As a proud Arab woman from a migrant family, her lived experiences inform her commitment to equity, inclusion, and collective action, and underpins her belief in architecture as a tool for social change. Within the GEDI Committee, Reem advocates for work cultures of empathy and belonging, and fostering genuine collaboration across diverse voices.

Rebecca Boland
Studio Nine Architects

 

At Studio Nine Architects, Rebecca’s work spans multi-residential and community-focused projects, informed by a belief that meaningful design begins with people and care. She is also a Community Ambassador for Catherine House, a member of EmAGN SA, and part of the Property Council’s Future Leaders Committee, where she advocates for equity and inclusive professional culture. Rebecca joined the GEDI Committee to amplify underrepresented voices and pursue change through advocacy, education, and open dialogue. She is particularly focused on gender equity, inclusive career pathways, and procedural fairness within professional institutions.

Sarah Meyer
Snøhetta

Sarah is an Architect and Studio Director at Snøhetta, leading projects from Adelaide on Kaurna Country. Her French background, childhood in Africa, and studies in Scandinavia shape a global outlook and a belief that architecture should reflect the diversity of its communities. She is committed to fostering empathy, inclusion, and stronger professional networks. Sarah joined the GEDI Committee to help turn discussions on equity and inclusion into meaningful action, focusing on retention, representation, and ensuring the profession reflects the people it serves.

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