I am excited to share that I had the distinct honor of serving as a juror at the 2025 iF Design Awards. This prestigious event, rooted in a commitment to excellence, objectivity, transparency, and impact in design, brought together over 130 jurors to review nearly 11,000 entries from 66 countries.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

The iF Design Awards, held since 1953, have been a global benchmark for outstanding design. With more than 10,000 entries annually competing in a rigorous two-step jury process across 82 categories, it's a vibrant celebration of innovation that spans the globe. The iF Design Foundation, a German nonprofit dedicated to design research and education, supports this event. They also host the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD and the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

This year's event began virtually but culminated in a final jury session in Hamburg, Germany, where I had the privilege of meeting CEOs, executive directors, creative directors, principals, COOs, and presidents of some of the world’s top organizations and companies. The experience was not only humbling but also rejuvenating. It was inspiring to engage in discussions that define what excellence in design means today and will mean tomorrow.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

A highlight of the event was the plenary session on the final day, where two standout projects in the Architecture & Interior Design category were presented to the audience for a live vote. I had the unique opportunity to present both projects, showcasing my public speaking skills and contributing to the dynamic exchange of ideas. This experience underscored the communal spirit of the awards and my role in bringing pivotal design narratives to the forefront.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute my insights and expertise to such a respected institution. The dedication to nurturing and recognizing high-quality design resonates deeply with my own values as an architect and advocate for diversity in our field.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

Thank you to all the organizers, jurors, and participants whose expertise and dedication ensure that the iF DESIGN AWARD remains a significant global benchmark for outstanding design.

Photography Credit iF Design Awards & Roman Thomas

If you are wondering why I chose to send you this email, please know your support means everything to me. You are a part of my community and someone I aspire to make proud.

#SAYITLOUD 

#Activist 

#Architect 

#Advocacy 

#History 

#Leadership 

#Global

#juror 

#Architecture 

#315thLiving 

#Exhibitions 

#NOMA 

#President 

#FAIA 

#AdjayeAssociates 

#CEO 

#representationmatters 

#BeVisible 

#diversity 

#archinews 

#Advocacy 

#Speakyourtruth 

#Shareyourstory 

#Voices 

#Empowerment 

#Elevate

#ifdesign

#ifdesignaward

#ifdesignaward2025

#ifjury

#designexcellence

hashtag

#awardwinningdesign 

#ifjury2025