His proposal looks at adoption from Vietnam to North America through an architectural lens and speculates how the built environment can ease moments of transition—a topic very personal to Lukas as a child adopted from Vietnam at five months old. Lukas has been awarded $5,000 to undertake the research project, with a secondary amount of $3,000 for project-related expenses.
With a wide variety of proposal submissions from architecture students across Canada, the DIALOG selection committee was impressed with Lukas’ proposal, recognizing the importance of bringing a sense of belonging to those first experiencing Canada.
“We are so fortunate to live in a country that welcomes thousands of immigrants every year,” shares Nicole Moyo, DIALOG urban designer, intern architect and jury member. “Lukas’ thesis encourages us to refocus on architecture for humanity.”
The jury saw potential for the research to go beyond international adoption to consider how spaces of transition can respond to the wellbeing of all newcomers when recognized as an important step in their arrival. “We’re excited to see how Lukas uses his personal story to empower others through architecture,” Moyo adds.
Upon completion, Lukas will present his findings in 2024. The next call for submissions for the 2024 Michael Evamy Scholarship will open in December 2023.
A big thank you to the DIALOG jury team Diego Morettin, Jim Montgomery, Donna Clare, Nicole Moyo, and Doug McConnell for their efforts and dedication in selecting the scholarship recipient.
Congratulations Lukas!
