Arcadia is proud to announce that Kearah Stanley has been awarded the inaugural Arcadia Indigenous Architecture Scholarship at The University of Newcastle, marking an important milestone in the practice’s ongoing commitment to increasing Indigenous representation across the built environment.
With Arcadia’s Newcastle studio approaching it’s second year, the timing was right Arcadia to partner with the University to establish the scholarship, extending a program that has supported Indigenous students in landscape architecture and design for almost a decade.
“Arcadia is proud of our scholarship program, which has been in place for nine years, and we’re excited to announce Kearah as the first University of Newcastle recipient,” said Johnny Bridges, Arcadia’s First Nations Design Director.
“Now in her second year of Architecture, Kearah has a passion for drawing and a strong interest in how architecture can shape environments that build communities, improve everyday lives and respect Indigenous culture through both theory and practice. Her ambition to apply this knowledge to regional communities when she completes her studies and returns to her hometown makes Kearah a worthy recipient.”
Since establishing Australia’s first Indigenous Scholarship in Landscape Architecture at UNSW in 2017, Arcadia has remained committed to creating pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students pursuing careers in the built environment. Today, Arcadia scholarships are available across seven universities nationally, supporting the next generation of Indigenous designers and practitioners.
Supporting the Next Generation of Indigenous Designers
The Arcadia Indigenous Scholarship program aims to encourage more Indigenous students to enter landscape architecture and architecture, recognising the vital role Indigenous practitioners play in shaping places, caring for Country and bringing cultural knowledge into the design process.
In addition to financial assistance throughout their studies, scholarship recipients receive access to mentoring and career development opportunities through Arcadia’s national network. Students are connected with senior staff for guidance and support, offered opportunities for paid student roles within Arcadia’s studios, and introduced to a growing network of Indigenous designers, practitioners and Knowledge Holders.
By encouraging emerging First Nations students to consider careers in landscape architecture, Arcadia hopes to help build a more representative profession while supporting culturally informed design outcomes that strengthen connections between people, place and Country.
Students interested in learning more about Arcadia’s Indigenous Scholarship program can contact pipm@arcadiala.com.au.
