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Raya Ani        

Architect; Founder & Design Director of Raw-NYC Architects

Raya Ani, an acclaimed architect, is celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions and honored as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. With degrees from Baghdad University and MIT, her career spans continents, working in cities like Baghdad, Boston, Dubai, Germany, and New York. Recognized since 2015 as a leading architect in the Middle East, she prioritizes environmental and social sustainability. As the 2017 President of the American Institute of Architects—Middle East Chapter, she launched AIA Middle East in Iraq, empowering global architects.

Ani's designs, from the first green school in NYC to transformative projects like Liberland and the Green Bridge of Baghdad, transcend structures. The Women's Building and Iraq Pavilion symbolize empowerment and resilience. DESTINAU sets a new standard in holistic design, reflecting her commitment to sustainability. On Forbes' 50 Over 50 and the top 10 Powerlist Creatives in the MENA region, Raya Ani's journey is marked by dedication, innovation, and a positive impact on global architecture.

Speech Topics

SUSTAINABILITY IN DESIGN, INNOVATION, AND SOCIAL IMPACT. SUSTAINABLE HORIZONS: DESIGNING TOMORROW'S WORLD TODAY

Discover the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and social impact in the world of design.

This engaging presentation takes you on a journey through groundbreaking projects that transcend conventional architecture. Explore the transformative power of sustainable design principles, from eco-friendly structures to holistic well-being environments. Learn how innovation becomes a catalyst for positive societal change as seen in projects like the Iraq Pavilion, Green Bridge of Baghdad, and DESTINAU. Gain insights into the role of technology in shaping sustainable futures and witness the harmony between environmental consciousness and social empowerment. Be inspired to envision a world where every architectural creation not only stands as a testament to innovation but also leaves a lasting positive impact on communities and the environment.

Attendee Results:

  • Explore the symbiotic relationship between sustainability, innovation, and social impact in design.
  • Uncover the transformative power of sustainable design principles through real-world projects.
  • Understand the role of technology as a catalyst for positive societal change in architecture.
  • Gain insights into creating environmentally conscious spaces that empower communities.
  • Be inspired to envision a future where architecture is a driver of positive change and sustainability.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH ARCHITECTURE : ARCHITECTS AS CATALYSTS: TRANSFORMING SPACES, EMPOWERING LIVES

Embark on a compelling exploration of architecture's transformative potential in empowering communities.

This presentation delves into the narrative of impactful projects that go beyond structures to reshape destinies. From the Women’s Building competition in New York, symbolizing the transformation of a correctional facility into a hub for empowerment, to the Liberland Design Competition, showcasing the innovation-driven creation of a micro-nation, witness how architects can lead societal change. Gain insights into the strategies of empowerment, drawing from the philosophy of Tom Kelley's Ten Faces of Innovation. Discover the architect's role as a catalyst for positive societal transformation and how each creation becomes a powerful step towards shaping a world where empowerment is at the forefront.

Attendee Results:

  • Explore architecture's role in empowering communities and individuals.
  • Discover real-world examples of transformative projects beyond conventional structures.
  • Understand the strategies of empowerment inspired by Tom Kelley's Ten Faces of Innovation.
  • Gain insights into the architect's role as a catalyst for positive societal transformation.
  • Be inspired to contribute to a world where architecture actively shapes narratives of empowerment. Urban Ecology: Rethinking Cities for Sustainable Futures

INNOVATING URBAN SPACES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HARMONY

Uncover the visionary approach to urban design that intertwines environmental sustainability with innovative architectural solutions.

This presentation delves into projects like the Green Bridge of Baghdad, a floating urban park celebrating Mesopotamian achievements, and the Marshes Restoration Project, harmonizing tradition with innovative technologies. Explore how architects can create urban ecosystems that go beyond conventional structures, promoting environmental harmony and resilience. Understand the philosophy of "inverted archaeology" in the Liberland Urban Environment and its impact on creating adaptable, resilient, and environmentally conscious cityscapes.

Attendee Results:

  • Explore innovative urban design solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability.
  • Discover projects like the Green Bridge of Baghdad and the Marshes Restoration Project as examples of urban ecology.
  • Understand the philosophy of ""inverted archaeology"" and its application in creating resilient urban environments.
  • Gain insights into the architect's role in rethinking cities for sustainable futures.
  • Be inspired to contribute to urban development that fosters environmental harmony and resilience.

NATURE-CENTRIC DESIGN FOR HOLISTIC WELL-BEING , DESIGNING HARMONY: NATURE-INSPIRED ARCHITECTURE FOR WELL-BEING

Delve into the profound connection between architecture, nature, and holistic well-being.

This presentation explores projects like DESTINAU, a journey to wellness that transcends traditional concepts of building. Discover how nature-centric design principles, from organic structures to natural immersion activities, can create spaces that inspire inner harmony and serenity. Gain insights into the importance of designing environments that prioritize well-being, seamlessly blending architecture with nature. Be inspired to envision a future where every architectural creation is a sanctuary promoting holistic well-being for individuals and communities.

Attendee Results:

  • Explore the profound connection between architecture, nature, and holistic well-being.
  • Discover projects like DESTINAU as examples of nature-inspired architecture promoting well-being.
  • Understand the significance of nature-centric design principles in creating harmonious spaces.
  • Gain insights into the architect's role in designing environments that prioritize well-being.
  • Be inspired to contribute to a future where architecture becomes a source of harmony and serenity for individuals and communities.

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