The SONA team is comprised of an executive committee of five student members and 26 student SONA representatives from accredited universities (or those on the pathway to becoming accredited) across Australia.
It is this team of dedicated students that volunteer their time and energy to make positive things happen for Australian students of architecture.
Contact us: sona@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_australia
Senlina Mayer
Master of Architecture student at Bond University
I bring a deep commitment to championing student voices and a clear vision for uniting architecture and built environment students nationwide. Drawing on my professional practice studies and experience on the National Practice Committee, as well as my work in practice, I aim to enhance SONA’s understanding of industry intricacies—supporting students as they transition from study to practice and clarifying the evolving roles, rights, and expectations of students and graduates in architecture. My leadership as SuperStudio Creative Director showed how imagination and play can build community and re-energise engagement; I want to infuse that same creativity into SONA to make it both impactful and enjoyable. By prioritising accessibility, equity, and collaboration, I will strengthen relationships between students, educators, and industry. My goal is to ensure SONA remains a national platform that empowers every student, regardless of background or location, to be represented, inspired, and heard within the architectural profession.
One of the key issues I am passionate about is addressing the lack of accessible local opportunities for students to engage with built environment works. Many students feel disconnected from the real-world projects and initiatives happening in their communities. This means students could be missing out on practical learning experiences that could enhance their education. With access to national committees, I hope to gain momentum for these types of initiatives for students to expand their learning. This approach will not only enhance the student experience, but also empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
My year as SONA Vice President (Professional Development) has been a rewarding experience, where I’ve actively engaged with representatives from across the country. Through this engagement I have demonstrated insight into the diverse challenges and aspirations of architecture students nationwide, strengthening my commitment to advocacy and inclusivity. Where this has made a proven impact, it in one of the themes of Super Studio 2024, as a rural representative spoke about including regional aspects to the brief of the competition. This change had a meaningful effect on the national competition. This demonstrates where these contributions can prove vital to the broader architectural conversation for students. I hope to continue this dialogue, and build on SONAs impact on the architecture community in Australia.
Shriya Jagadish
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) student at Bond University
Through my time as SONA Representative at Bond University, I've seen first-hand how advocacy can connect students with the larger conversations shaping our discipline—from sustainability and housing to wellbeing and access to work.
A key interest in my own works is equity in housing, sustainability and the connection of indigenous knowledge to the design process. I seek to work with the institute to create increased access to resources that are relevant to the student body. In advocating for this, I seek to engage the student body to like minded and pioneering architects, focussing on these various issues as well as others of concern to SONA members. In my representative role I have previously reached out to architects relevant to my concerns for guidance, a pipeline that I wish to extend to the students body to create with architects and practices that align with their values. In the role of VP I wish to give students the platform for activism, understanding it is important in the progression of the field we will inherit, putting students at the forefront of its evolution.
Within my own research from students, there was a perceived disconnect between the student body and practicing architects. Through engagement of the institute I developed two separate frameworks to diversify existing platforms for students to contribute to wider industry discourse. In minimizing the perceived distance between the different arms of practice, I worked with the institute in review of the Institute’s Community Page as well as creating a framework for an extension of the Institutes podcast to include the student voice and interest. Understanding the diversity of the student body, working with state representatives, we further increased the catchment of Superstudio, a key event in the connection of students to practice. Achieving these solutions involved extensive consultation with the student body as well as the Australian Institute of Architects to develop mutually beneficial outcomes, developing relationships in important groups that will help expedite the actioning of future advocacy.
Breeze Mathew
Master of Architecture student at Adelaide University
I’m passionate about creating spaces, both physical and social, where students feel empowered to collaborate, share ideas, and find purpose beyond their coursework. Having personally experienced how strong networks can inspire confidence and open doors, I want to extend that sense of belonging and opportunity across all SONA chapters. My focus would be on fostering inclusive, community-driven initiatives that bridge academia, practice, and student wellbeing. By proactively building relationships with universities, industry partners, and local communities, I aim to help SONA become not just a representative body, but a catalyst for meaningful engagement and growth within architectural education.
As an architecture student with a background in graphic communication, curation, and storytelling, I bring a strong understanding of visual narrative and publication design. I see de-PICT 2025 as more than a zine; it should be a powerful platform of voices, capturing the diverse experiences, experiments, and reflections of students across Australia. My vision is to make it interactive, visually bold, and thematically unifying, featuring student projects, opinion pieces, and sketches that explore the evolving role of architecture in culture and community. By merging design rigour with authenticity, I hope to make de-PICT a valuable space that documents the student journey while provoking thought about the future of our built environment.
I believe engagement begins with connection and purpose. To grow the SONA community, I would focus on creating consistent, inclusive, and value-driven opportunities for students to participate, both online and in person. This could include community-driven events, collaborative design challenges, and mentorship circles linking students with recent graduates and experienced practitioners. I’d also strengthen inter-chapter collaboration by spotlighting local initiatives nationally through digital platforms, allowing students to see themselves as part of a larger collective. My approach would centre on listening and co-creating; inviting members to actively shape the events and discussions they want to see. By amplifying student voices and celebrating shared achievements, I aim to make SONA a space where engagement feels natural, empowering, and continuous throughout the architectural journey.
A key interest in my own works is equity in housing, sustainability and the connection of indigenous knowledge to the design process. I seek to work with the institute to create increased access to resources that are relevant to the student body. In advocating for this, I seek to engage the student body to like minded and pioneering architects, focussing on these various issues as well as others of concern to SONA members. In my representative role I have previously reached out to architects relevant to my concerns for guidance, a pipeline that I wish to extend to the students body to create with architects and practices that align with their values. In the role of VP I wish to give students the platform for activism, understanding it is important in the progression of the field we will inherit, putting students at the forefront of its evolution.
Within my own research from students, there was a perceived disconnect between the student body and practicing architects. Through engagement of the institute I developed two separate frameworks to diversify existing platforms for students to contribute to wider industry discourse. In minimizing the perceived distance between the different arms of practice, I worked with the institute in review of the Institute’s Community Page as well as creating a framework for an extension of the Institutes podcast to include the student voice and interest. Understanding the diversity of the student body, working with state representatives, we further increased the catchment of Superstudio, a key event in the connection of students to practice. Achieving these solutions involved extensive consultation with the student body as well as the Australian Institute of Architects to develop mutually beneficial outcomes, developing relationships in important groups that will help expedite the actioning of future advocacy.
Zoeanna Upadhyay
Master of Architecture student at Swinburne University
I believe that by working collaboratively across academia, practice, community forums and research, the exchange of knowledge (from both top-down, and bottom-up approaches) urges all levels of professionals to engage positively in forging our shared futures. I am committed to challenging conventional paradigms and fostering a holistic approach to architecture. The Vice-President for Professional Development therefore offers a platform for reducing the disparity between university content and work experience by presenting SONA members with the opportunity to be better equipped with tools, experience and exposure to professional practice. This includes organising conversations with architects and designers, fluency with software, mentorship with a professional, mock interviews, portfolio reviews, office immersions, site visits, student competitions and networking opportunities.
As a QLD jury member, mentor, state winner of SuperStudio and SONA representative, I have been actively involved in the organization and participation of SuperStudio and Upscale, and judging of winning teams. As a generative and speculative design competition, SuperStudio presents an opportunity for student voices to contribute to the greater architectural dialogue in responding to social, environmental and economic crises. On a practical level, I am committed to optimizing national student engagement in the competition, by drawing upon more networks in practice and university to facilitate effective mentor sessions and design talks, as well as introducing training sessions that allow for upskilling in the use of software (such as the Adobe suite, or Autodesk tools) for producing presentations, or iterating designs. Having participated in Design Charrettes in my workplace, Architectus, I am passionate about the collaborative environment that SuperStudio fosters, which reflects the design process in professional practice.
Matthew Sabransky
Master of Architecture | Deakin University
Contact us: sonavic@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sonavictoria
Sage Ardona
Monash University
My motivation for pursuing this role stems from my deep passion for the architectural discipline. Having been a subscriber for nearly a year, I recognise the value SONA offers to students, particularly through the Architecture Australia (AA) magazines.
I see this role as an opportunity to actively deepen my professional involvement in the industry, expand my network, and foster key social connections. I can easily articulate the tangible benefits SONA offers to students like myself. By leveraging our shared enthusiasm for architecture, I believe we can bring the entire student community together.
Tracy Nguyen
Deakin University
I am a highly engaged communicator, reflected both in my academic achievements and my ability to connect meaningfully with others. I naturally promote SONA as a supportive and welcoming community, not merely an organisation.
My approach to engagement centres on human connection. My main goal is to create relaxed events where students feel comfortable sharing perspectives, discussing challenges, and finding solutions together. I aim to integrate SONA into everyday campus life through compelling stories, creative pop-up initiatives, and strategic collaborations with tutors.
As a prospective Student Experience Ambassador for Deakin University in 2026, I am committed to ensuring that student voices are louder than ever, that they are not just heard, but felt and seen.
Chauntel Wong
RMIT
As an architecture student at RMIT University, my existing network with peers will be immensely valuable in promoting events, especially as we approach our crucial final years. I will promote initiatives not only by coordinating with the building management to advertise via promotional materials, but also effectively through word of mouth.
Last year, at the Australian Architecture Conference 2025, I gained experience by sharing live updates and student perspectives through an Instagram social media takeover. I will continue to provide exciting and engaging content to boost publicity. Furthermore, I plan to collaborate strategically with the RMIT Faculty to draw in students, fostering an open, inviting space that encourages inclusive engagement and collective growth.
Shreya Raju
University of Melbourne
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I want to contribute actively to my student community while building stronger connections with the profession. As an international student, I understand the paramount importance of feeling included and supported, and I am eager to help create those opportunities for others.
What motivates me is the chance to bring students together through engaging events, networking opportunities, and shared experiences that make university life more enriching. This role excites me because it strategically combines leadership, creativity, and community building—qualities I enjoy and want to further develop.
I see this role as a way to learn more about architecture beyond the classroom, while simultaneously giving back to my peers, helping them feel connected and inspired.
Vedant Oza
Swinburne University
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I view architecture as a field that thrives on shared dialogue and collective growth. My experience at the University of Melbourne and Swinburne has shown me how student voices can shape design culture and educational experiences. I aim to construct that crucial bridge between students, academia, and professional practice by effectively representing student perspectives within the SONA community.
What motivates me most is contributing to a platform that fosters collaboration and mentorship. Having worked on projects exploring community engagement and sustainable intervention, I am driven to extend that same sense of purpose beyond the studio—to help students connect, share, and grow together within a supportive national network.
Tracy Nguyen
Deakin University
I am deeply passionate about improving the collaboration among universities, enhancing the social aspects of studying architecture, and enriching (or revitalising) studio culture.. something that is sadly fading away in my perspective. I believe in the importance of sharing projects and knowledge, rather than being tunnel visioned into the same project. I'm motivated to take on this role to work alongside other representatives and contribute positively to the community among students. My goal is to create opportunities and resources that I wish I had when I was an architecture student, through promoting an inclusive environment where students can learn from one another, I hope to enrich the educational experience and help others thrive in their architectural journeys at whatever stage they may be at!
Contact us: sonaqld@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sonaqld
Charlotte Ross
Queensland University of Technology
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I believe in inclusivity as the pathway to shape meaningful change. This role offers a vital platform to support my peers and connect them with industry professionals, thereby amplifying their learning in architecture.
Having participated in SuperStudio 2025, I personally witnessed the immense value of bringing together like-minded students to foster peer learning. Furthermore, I have actively pursued extracurricular development through the QUT REAL Leaders Program and the College of Excellence. This involvement has equipped me with essential leadership skills, which I developed through dedicated workshops, events, and networking opportunities.
Ultimately, I am driven by the opportunity to engage, lead with equity, listen, and learn collaboratively with fellow students and with SONA.
Stella Pulham
Griffith University Gold Coast
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I value the crucial role SONA plays in connecting students with Australia’s wider architectural community. I am motivated by the opportunity to strengthen engagement here at Griffith, fostering collaboration, participation, and a stronger sense of belonging within our architectural network.
Juveria Vasim
University of Queensland
As a current Master of Architecture student and a former Project Architect in my home country, I possess a professional understanding of how SONA effectively bridges the gap between educational and professional platforms. As an international student, SONA has significantly impacted my introduction to the local professional scenario.
I am largely motivated by the power of community building and networking. Through SONA, I have connected with a substantial number of industry professionals who have positively shaped my view of the profession here in Australia.
The access to mentorship programs, industry acumen, news, and information from the platform has personally and positively influenced my growth as an architecture student. I would love to contribute to making this platform even more obvious and openly accessible to all.
By sharing the great opportunities that SONA provides to members, like the "GOLD COAST AND NORTHERN RIVERS PRESIDENT’S LUNCH at White Rhino Bar & Eats", "VENICE BIENNALE – OPEN ARCHIVE CALL OUT" in addition of Six issues of Architecture Australia are published each year, plus more.
By showcasing the quality of information and work provides to members. by giving everyone a place to belong, support and engage.
I take great pride in my work, and I am totally dedicated to meet and even exceeding the expectations.
Throughout my career, I have been most effective to accomplish project goals. The key to my success has been my ability to efficiently manage multiple and varied activities, all taking place simultaneously. Given the opportunity, I can demonstrate this in any project situation. In addition, I am receptive to new learning experiences; welcome challenges.
Pippa Nelson
Bond University
Bidhan Adhikari
Griffith University
Becoming a SONA representative is a personal goal of mine ever since I started my degree at Griffith University. As I progressed into my second year of studies I was exposed to external and internal architectural events and competitions which has motivated me to take initiative and gain leadership positions. Advising with past alumni and 3 or 4th year students I was highly recommended and encouraged to take positions in societies internally, as well as this role as a SONA representative. I am eager to help my fellow students access resources, connect with industry professionals, and engage in activities that enhance our collective understanding of architecture. By taking on this role, I aim to contribute to the growth and success of both my peers and the university, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs are met in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.
I’d like to provide information for my colleges as the SONA rep through an engaging and open forum style. I’m easily approachable so anyone with concerns knows and feels comfortable to chat. I stand for honesty, integrity, a genuine nature and love design.
By sharing the great opportunities that SONA provides to members, like the "GOLD COAST AND NORTHERN RIVERS PRESIDENT’S LUNCH at White Rhino Bar & Eats", "VENICE BIENNALE – OPEN ARCHIVE CALL OUT" in addition of Six issues of Architecture Australia are published each year, plus more.
By showcasing the quality of information and work provides to members. by giving everyone a place to belong, support and engage.
I take great pride in my work, and I am totally dedicated to meet and even exceeding the expectations.
Throughout my career, I have been most effective to accomplish project goals. The key to my success has been my ability to efficiently manage multiple and varied activities, all taking place simultaneously. Given the opportunity, I can demonstrate this in any project situation. In addition, I am receptive to new learning experiences; welcome challenges.
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I thrive on connecting people and strengthening community, a value I have held since childhood. My lifelong involvement with the Miami Surf Life Saving Club—including serving as Junior Club Captain in 2020—taught me the profound power of teamwork and shared purpose.
Since architecture can sometimes feel individual, I am eager to help create a more connected and supportive student culture at Bond. I am motivated by the opportunity to represent our students, celebrate their work, and foster greater collaboration, creativity, and community spirit within our architecture program.
Contact us: sonawa@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sonawesternaustralia
Matthew Menezes
University of Western Australia
Fundamentally, I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because it presents a vital opportunity to bridge the gap between the student and design profession communities—two communities of which I am an active member.
This role offers the chance to advocate for student voices, ensuring current issues, ambitions, and creativity are effectively represented at both university and national levels. It also allows me to build on my own leadership and interpersonal skills by collaborating with peers to organise events, workshops, and networking opportunities that will ultimately enrich the transition from university to industry.
Claire Sakharova
Curtin University
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I want to help strengthen the sense of community among architecture and interiors students at Curtin. My experience studying online highlighted the difficulty of lacking classmates and a supportive peer network, which ultimately convinced me of the critical importance of an accessible student support system. This was a primary driver for my decision to transition to on-campus study.
I have observed that many students are currently under-engaged with events, networking, and peer connection opportunities. Architecture is demanding and can be isolating, yet it is fundamentally a collaborative space. I believe SONA provides the ideal platform to foster connection by creating environments where students feel comfortable engaging, sharing ideas, and building professional relationships. I am motivated by this opportunity to make our community more connected, supportive, and actively involved.
Rebekah Penna
University of Notre-Dame
I view becoming a SONA Representative as a wonderful opportunity to help myself and my fellow students intentionally expand our architectural network. During my studies, I have greatly enjoyed the inspiration and energy that comes from collaborating with my peers, and I am excited by the prospect of working together with other representatives to build a strong architectural student community.
I am motivated to gain additional skills in event planning, social media engagement, and time management to help myself and my cohort gain valuable insights that will effectively bridge the gap between student life and professional work. Ultimately, I wish to be more actively involved in the architecture community and generate excitement among other students about getting involved as well.
Contact us: sonasa@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_southaustralia
Jaela Manning
Adelaide University
I am particularly interested in applying for the role of a SONA Co-Representative alongside Angus Haskard. This partnership would allow us to effectively balance the workload while providing robust support to the new, combined cohort of Adelaide University. We aim to make SONA an accessible and memorable part of every architecture student’s experience.
Having witnessed the success of previous representatives, such as Lauren Clatworthy, Sienna Dichiera, and Breeze Mathew, in enhancing our university architecture community, we are excited by the opportunity to progress this further in 2026.
We believe that with the launch of Adelaide University, it is a crucial time to strengthen the student culture. Our efforts as SONA Representatives would assist with smoothly integrating the new architecture cohorts. We see a great opportunity to encourage more collaboration across year levels and provide students with increased opportunities to gain insight from, and build connections in, the industry.
Sienna Dichiera
University of South Australia
Amongst the many reasons I decided to pursue a career in architecture, I was drawn to the social and collaborative nature of the profession. I have always found joy in fostering connections with others. In the last two years of my degree, I have developed as much academically as I have interpersonally; contributing to friendships within my cohort has highlighted my university experience. Sharing ideas and techniques amongst my peers, and taking opportunities to learn from professionals and industry leaders in various forums, has been instrumental to my growth. However, this is something I have actively sought out, and in the era of online university teaching, I have found it is easy to become isolated and feel disconnected, from peers, and from what life will look like post-graduation. As SONA rep, I would love to capitalise on the wider network of connections and resources available to improve this aspect of university life across my cohort.
Lauren Clatworthy
University of South Australia
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I believe in the power of community to shape the future of architecture. I feel incredibly grateful to be in my position; studying something that I love, alongside such a welcoming and supportive group of people that have become like my second family. Being a part of this community has helped me grow both academically and personally, and I am excited by the chance to represent my peers. Being a SONA Representative offers the perfect opportunity to foster further connections and inspire others to make the most of their university experience. What motivates me is the chance to strengthen the architecture student community, offer new opportunities for learning and professional development, and collaborate with others who share the same passion for the future of architecture. I’m eager to support the growth of this network and help others feel as empowered as I have throughout my journey so far.
Contact us: sonant@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_northern_territory
Irene Tsougranis
Charles Darwin University
Dedicated Bachelor of Architectural Design student at Charles Darwin University with strong communication and interpersonal skills, ready to contribute in a professional environment. She enjoys focusing on her physical health, and photography and enjoys travelling overseas.
Contact us: sonansw@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_nsw
Dhyani Savsaviya
University of New South Wales
As an Architecture student, I am eager to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
The AIA SONA Representative role offers a unique opportunity to connect students with the broader architectural community, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and growth.
I am passionate about advocating for student voices, sharing valuable resources, and helping my peers navigate their journey with confidence. This role would allow me to contribute meaningfully while deepening my own understanding of the profession.
Kien Bui
University of Sydney
I have a burning curiosity about people and the connections that bind communities together—the same drive that led me to pursue architecture. I believe deeply in the power of human connection; after all, everything meaningful we create emerges from collaboration and thoughtful negotiation. SONA represents the ideal platform to channel this belief into tangible change.
As a representative, I aim to drive inclusion, equity, and integrity through the strategic empowerment of our community voices. I wish to foster meaningful discourse that doesn't just resonate within our school, but creates ripple effects that influence broader conversations about student representation and advocacy.
I want to bridge the gap between individual student experiences and systemic change, ensuring that our diverse perspectives shape the policies and practices that benefit us all.
Gabriel Smano
Western Sydney University
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I firmly believe in the importance of connection, collaboration, and student empowerment within architectural education.
Throughout my studies at Western Sydney University, I have seen the value in providing students with early access to professional networks, industry exposure, and a supportive design community. My core motivation is to help create these opportunities for others.
By contributing to SONA, I aim to help students feel more confident, informed, and prepared as they enter the profession. This role offers me the chance to give back to the student body, strengthen professional connections, and represent the student voice in meaningful conversations within the Institute.
Yashvi Talati
University of Technology Sydney
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative because I believe architecture is fundamentally about building a better world and fostering stronger communities. This platform provides an invaluable space for students to share their voices, connect with peers, and form meaningful networks that extend beyond university.
I applied for this role last year, and my continued motivation comes from the growth I have experienced as a student since then. With stronger skills, greater confidence, and a deeper understanding of the profession, I feel prepared to contribute fresh perspectives and challenge how architecture is perceived.
My background in event management and public speaking, combined with my passion for design and architecture, uniquely positions me to both contribute to the community and grow through this opportunity.
Clare De Lune Whitney
University of Newcastle
As a first-year Masters student, I believe that the built environment should be a place where we can be our most authentic selves. When we create together, we can achieve anything.
I am most passionate about the wellbeing of current students and their careers after university. I believe it is extremely important to bridge the gap between study and practice, especially given today's competitive employment landscape.
Contact us: sonatas@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_tasmania
Lucy Munt
University of Tasmania
I am passionate about becoming a SONA Representative for Tasmania, driven by a commitment to the student architecture community and a desire to represent the state.
In my first year, I achieved High Distinctions in all core units and actively engaged in industry events, often as the sole student. This built my confidence and understanding of the profession.
I'm motivated to develop new skills, expand my professional network, and create meaningful opportunities for my peers. I am career-driven and eager to learn.
My strong communication skills and genuine commitment make me an enthusiastic candidate to represent Tasmania for SONA.
Contact us: sonaact@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_act
Toni Moreno Castillo
University of Canberra
I aim to help create a positive and inclusive experience for my peers by strengthening the bridge between students and the architectural profession.
I am motivated by the opportunity to continue advocating for student needs, fostering meaningful engagement with industry, and contributing to events and initiatives that enrich the university experience.
Contact us: sona@architecture.com.au
Follow us: @sona_australia
Aleyna FitzGerald
Curtin University (online)
My passion is rooted in the belief that unconventional perspectives enrich both the industry and the community. This conviction is informed by my personal background: I am a queer, Turkish-Australian woman from regional Australia who did not complete high school. Instead, at 17, I moved to Paris.
My non-traditional path, which included working in fashion for almost a decade before discovering architecture through floristry, has distinctly shaped my academic ambitions. It exposed me to the immense benefits brought by diverse viewpoints.
My aim as a SONA Representative is to leverage this journey to amplify the voices of others from non-traditional experiences. I will ensure all voices, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, are valued. I look forward to collaborating with SONA’s diverse leadership and leveraging my professional skills to support the core mission of community and collaboration.
SONA Representatives are ambassadors for SONA and the Australian Institute of Architects at your University. Reps help to intensify student’s university study and social experiences, providing opportunities for professional networking and career development.
