Archination - Embracing Diversity: Learning through Different
Perspectives
When: Thursday 10th September 2026
Time: 6pm for 6:30 pm start - 8:00 pm
Where: BVN
Address: The Annex, 12 Creek Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000
The ArchiNations series is dedicated to celebrating the diverse
stories, experiences, and contributions of those in our architectural
community who have come to Australia from around the world.
Through short presentations, speakers will share their experiences
and explore the value that diverse perspectives bring to architectural
practice, shape design thinking, and engagement with communities.
Together, we'll consider how the profession can better recognise and
benefit from diverse experiences, the often-overlooked value of
international expertise, and the role diverse teams play in fostering
innovation, challenging assumptions and creating better outcomes for
both practice and the communities we serve.
Following the talks, we invite you to stick around for some relaxed
networking. Bring a friend, meet new ones, and help us grow a
vibrant, inclusive community. Through connection and celebration, we
aim to foster a space where everyone feels welcome and supported.
We look forward to seeing you there!.
Dr Kavita Gonsalves
Dr Kavita Gonsalves is Head of Sustainability, APAC at Populous, where she leads sustainable design across major sports and civic infrastructure. A built environment practitioner, researcher, educator, and design strategist, she has worked across Bahrain, the UK, India, Finland, and Australia, bringing a global perspective to diversity in practice. Kavita believes better places are created when diverse voices, lived experiences, and knowledge systems shape design. She is a Queensland Chapter Councillor and Climate Action & Sustainability Committee member with the Australian Institute of Architects and is co-leading the "Pool of Other Leaders"(PoOL) program with Parlour- a national leadership program which is aimed at advancing women and people of diverse genders and identities in architecture and design practice leadership.
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Tersius Maass
Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Tersius is an Afrikaner whose childhood of farming, camping, and exploring rugged landscapes continues to shape his approach to architecture. After graduating with a B.Tech in Architecture in 2004, he began his career specialising in heritage and residential design.
A move to Scotland in 2007 broadened his experience in adaptive reuse, urban regeneration, and the importance of designing with cultural empathy. His work included civic and community-focused projects such as arts centres, mental health facilities, and a fire station.
In 2010, Tersius relocated to Australia, where he has contributed to the delivery of projects ranging from complex hospitals to small community-focused interventions. He completed his Master of Architecture in 2018, discovered a passion for teaching, and now serves as Chair of Griffith University's Industry Reference Board.
Tersius is a husband, father of two, and a Queensland-registered architect.
Can I register for this event if I am not a member of the Australian Institute of Architects? Yes! Simply register as a non-member when prompted after clicking to register for this webinar, and supply your contact details. This will set up a free non-member account, that you can use in the future when joining us for events or seminars.