As a strategic advisor, educator and researcher, Dr Kali Marnane exemplifies an architectural career that is both broad in scope and deeply impactful. Her work shows how architectural leadership can transcend individual projects to shape collective outcomes.

Early in her career, Kali volunteered in the slums of Ahmedabad, India – an experience that inspired her PhD research into spaces that support vulnerable women and children. This perspective continues to inform her work, from her appointment as associate lecturer at the University of Queensland to her current position as associate director at Urbis, where she champions the role of architectural expertise in shaping policy, planning and strategy.

Kali keeps people and communities at the heart of her vision. She works closely with Indigenous communities, youth and women, embedding their voices into culturally responsive policy frameworks. Her leadership is grounded in service, marked by empathy, attentive listening and a dedication to lifting others.

As a former EmAGN Queensland co-chair, active community volunteer and convenor for Parlour Lab, Kali has forged meaningful connections between research, practice and people. She offers a powerful example of an alternate architectural path – where strategic vision and human empathy are mobilised to create lasting impact.
For this, Dr Kali Marnane is a deserving recipient of the 2025 National Emerging Architect Prize.

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Prize Jury members:
Adam Haddow FRAIA
(Chair) Australian Institute of Architects National President

Jennifer McMaster FRAIA
2024 National Emerging Architect Prize Winner

Callum Senjov RAIA
2025 EmAGN National President

Maiya Mckenna has been awarded the 2025 Northern Territory Emerging Architect Prize for her dedication to advocacy and action at various scales of the architectural community. Her focus on community welfare, and place-responsive procedures demonstrates her commitment to achieving great architectural outcomes through genuine listening and her innate social responsibility.

As Studio Lead at Rossi Architects, Maiya exemplifies hands-on leadership and a self-driven commitment to first nations communities and the broader profession. Embracing humility while balancing technical and cultural responsibilities to clients, stakeholders and often-voiceless end users with sensitivity and conviction. All the while mentoring young architects and raising expectations within her project team through thoughtful conversations and actions.

During her time in the NT Chapter council and as NT EmAGN Co-chair she has initiated transparency, accountability, and positive change. Maiya contributed to council papers, policies, reports, and industry events. While at national levels she advocated for support to our remote members and the impacts, challenges and benefits of remote architectural practice.

Outside of the day-to-day, Maiya has supported various community initiatives, from student workshops as a SONA Rep and UQ Architecture Ambassador to fundraising and organising for the ‘Winter Sleep Out’ event for victims of domestic violence. She also leads the NT Registration Study Group to assist graduates on their path to registration.

For exhibiting exemplary leadership, embracing cultural aspects of practice, and continuously enhancing the profession, she is highly commended by the jury, who look forward to her future contributions.

Prize Jury members:

Matt Elkan, RAIA
2025 NT Chair of Jury

Katy Moir, RAIA
2024 NT Emerging Architect Prize Winner

Paul Bartsch, RAIA
NT EmAGN Co-Chair