DMA

DMA are pleased to again be supporting PLACED, this time with their exciting new programme, the 2021 PLACED Environmental Academy. Commencing in June 2021, the programme will support youth-led advocacy in the urgent conversation around the climate crisis, and will focus on how the design and management of the built environment can positively impact climate change.

PLACED is the Liverpool-based social enterprise that helps people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in planning and design through community consultation, engagement and education across the North West and DMA have been proud to have supported them over the last year, both as sponsors (a contribution of £500 to sponsor a place for young person in the course), but also as ambassadors with three of our Liverpool team participating in the workshops as well as getting involved in mentoring the students.

We have now seen two cohorts of students graduate from the PLACED Academy with fantastic results, despite the fact that both the10-week programmes took place through weekly Zoom calls instead of the usual workshop format.

Last summer’s programme was the first ‘Digital PLACED Academy’. Two projects were undertaken by the group; an individual 5 week community hub project as well as a group project to undertake a housing-led regeneration project based on a brief provided by The Regenda Group. The work produced and the positive attitude displayed was very impressive, especially when taking the challenging circumstances into account – from juggling with school work to collaborating with others through Zoom to successfully complete a group project. Every design was empathetic, people-centred and well considered, with some impressive visuals too.

PLACED founder, Jo Harrop commented,

“We are thrilled with success of the first PLACED Digital Academy. Covid has severely impacted young people, and many are anxious about their future. Being able to support the development of skills and confidence, contact with professionals and an insight into careers through the Academy is more important than ever, reflected in us receiving almost 200 applications. By being digital, we have also been able to have a national audience, and have supported a diverse group of young people. Despite being online, participants have come out of the programme more confident, inspired and with a clearer view to their future. The support of our sponsors and mentors is absolutely critical to this impact”

It has been a really positive experience for DMA. It’s always lovely when people are inspired to join our profession and we’ve got to know a number of students who are interested in pursuing careers in architecture.

If you are interested in finding out more or getting involved with the PLACED Academy, click here.