We are proud to introduce the WalterFedy Award, a new initiative dedicated to empowering Indigenous voices in city building. This award aims to support Indigenous students on their educational journeys, enabling them to shape the future of urban landscapes with their unique perspectives. 

“The WalterFedy Award represents a significant step forward in our commitment to inclusivity and diversity in urban design. By supporting Indigenous students, we are not only empowering their voices but also enriching the future of city building with vital cultural perspectives,” says Alberto De Salvatierra, Associate Professor SAPL. 

At SAPL, fostering an inclusive environment that reflects diverse cultural backgrounds is a core commitment. The WalterFedy Award is designed to increase Indigenous representation, ensuring that all students feel welcomed and valued in our community. 

Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are vital to creating sustainable and culturally relevant built environments. Thanks to WalterFedy, this award will support students who bring these essential insights into the field, enriching our collective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in city design. 

Investing in Indigenous students is an investment in the future of buildings, cities, and landscapes. By providing the WalterFedy Award, we aspire to inspire and cultivate the next generation of Indigenous leaders and innovators in design. 

We recognize the barriers that Indigenous students face in pursuing higher education. This award provides vital financial support to bridge gaps and make city-building education more accessible. 

Diversity in design leads to innovation. The WalterFedy Award encourages Indigenous students to contribute their unique perspectives and enriching our approach to city-focused solutions. 

Design has the power to transform communities, and we are excited to support Indigenous students passionate about creating spaces that honour culture and enhance community well-being. We encourage all Indigenous students to connect with their heritage and incorporate it into their design practices, expressing their cultural identity through their work. 

Indigenous ways of knowing and creating are valuable not only for Indigenous-centered projects but also for the broader field, and we invite non-Indigenous professionals to embrace these insights. 

"This award is our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders who will bring invaluable insights and perspectives to the design of our urban landscapes. Together, we can foster a more inclusive and vibrant future for all,” says Mike Brady, Vice President of Operations, Western Canada, WalterFedy.