Oki, 31, will serve as RIBA president from September 1, 2022, until September 2025 and will take over from the current president, Simon Allford. He will become the institution’s first Black president and its youngest.
The architect, who is currently employed at global construction company Mace, shared how he wants to build a more inclusive future within the architecture profession and will ensure that “those who feel disenfranchised and under-represented” are heard.
“We can be proud of an election where people of colour, at different stages of their careers, of all identities, can be heard and seen bidding to represent the profession,” Oki said.
“I hope this is the start of many great things to come for those who feel disenfranchised and under-represented. I am proud of my campaign, the discourse has been positive, energetic and inspirational.”
Previously an architect at London studio Gimshaw Architects, Oki is an ambassador for the Mayor of London: Design Future London challenge and was put forward by an informal collection of young architects as its candidate to run for RIBA President.
“I am grateful to the grassroots movement whose support and passion offered a platform to represent architectural workers,” Oki reportedly said.
“Most of all a special thanks to those members and nominators, that responded to this movement, tuned in and voted – especially those that did so for the first time.”
He continued: “I am proud of my campaign, the discourse has been positive, energetic, and inspirational. It has been a privilege to run alongside Jo [Bacon] and Sumita [Singha] and as RIBA council and board members, I am looking forward to working with you both to deliver equity, transparency, and innovation in architecture.”
Oki was elected ahead of architects Jo Bacon and Sumita Singha and will be known as president-elect from 1 September of this year until he becomes president.
