Western Sydney University architecture students recognised with national prize

Two Western Sydney University architecture students have been recognised on the national stage, taking out the 2026 Student Prize for the Advancement of Architecture awarded by the Australian Institute of Architects.

Amanda Eessa and Mary Anne Yosef were announced as the joint winners at the Institute’s 2026 Annual General Meeting, recognised for their outstanding contribution to the advancement of architecture among their student cohort, the wider community of Western Sydney, and beyond.

Reflecting on the award, Amanda and Mary Anne said they were honoured to be recognised for work grounded in community and collaboration.

“We truly feel so honoured to receive this award. It represents years of faith, hard work, support, and community, all driven by our shared passion to create opportunities for the next generation of designers in Western Sydney,” they said.

The prestigious award celebrates emerging leaders who are helping shape the future of Australian architecture through advocacy, creativity and community contribution.

In announcing the winners, the Jury, chaired by David Wagner (National President, Australian Institute of Architects and Atelier Wagner), praised the pair for their collaborative approach and contribution to fostering a strong student culture within the University’s architecture program.

The Jury commented that, “Amanda Eessa and Mary Anne Yosef, the joint winners of the 2026 Student Prize for the Advancement of Architecture, provide an exemplar of how to collaboratively advance architecture – encouraging engagement and dialogue among their colleagues while promoting the virtues of architectural design”.

Both students commenced at Western Sydney University in one of the first cohorts of the University’s architecture program.

The pair co-founded the Beyond Architecture Student Club (BASC) while also participating in the Student Organised Network for Architecture (SONA), with Mary Anne serving as Western Sydney University’s 2024 representative.

Through BASC, Amanda and Mary Anne established and edited the architectural publication  In Due Time  as a platform for student work and voices.

The Jury further highlighted the students’ collaboration and support for one another, noting the benefit of working together to shape a strong culture centred on connection, encouragement and genuine peer support.

In addition to their leadership within the student community, the students have actively contributed to exhibitions and co-written articles for The Sydney Morning Herald and the NSW Chapter’s Architecture Bulletin. Amanda was also a finalist in the 2024 NSW Housing Pattern Book Design Competition.

ENDS.

14 May 2026
Media Unit