Design Your Future: ZGF Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients
ZGF is thrilled to announce this year’s scholarship recipients.
The jury evaluated submissions for their innovation, presentation, storytelling, and professional experience. They gravitated toward individuals with compelling personal stories who are dedicated to making a positive impact on the world and giving back to the community.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
Saleh Zebermai is a Master of Architecture student at the Washington Alexandria Architecture Center (WAAC) at Virginia Tech. His humanitarian work at the Rohingya Refugee Camp in Bangladesh strongly influenced his understanding of architecture’s role in addressing urgent humanitarian needs. Drawing from his past experiences, he is interested in developing practical design solutions to address global issues including affordable housing, sustainability, and community resilience.
“I consider the profession of architecture as a way to give back to the community,” shares Saleh.
"The scholarships are about the promise of individuals who will use design to help move the needle towards a more positive future."
- Braulio Baptista, Partner, ZGF
Joseph Appiah is a Master of Architecture in Urban Design student at Harvard University who believes that we can build just and equitable communities by providing more opportunities for end users to engage in the design process. He is committed to breaking down the barriers surrounding architectural discourse in order to honor the ideal of building environments that reflect community.
“One of the most important changes we can make is to invite more people into the conversation surrounding architecture,” writes Joseph.
Confident Fandeh is a Bachelor of Architecture student at Iowa State University minoring in African American Studies. Originating from Liberia, her personal mission is to contribute to the long-term development of her home country by creating spaces that bring people together, provide opportunities for growth, and reflect the strength and resilience of the African people.
The Judges
ZGF would like to thank the 2025 judging panel for their time and commitment to these scholarships.
2025 Scholarship Judging Panel
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Adriana Argyropoulous, Principal & Founder, Studio Zia
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Mark Gardner, Associate Professor of Architectural Practice and Society, Parsons School of Design; Principal, Jaklitsch/Gardner Architects; Vice President | President-Elect AIA New York
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Carol Kekez, Principal, PLACE
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Renée Kemp-Rotan, President & CEO, Studio Rotan
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Michael Marshall, President/CEO, Michael Marshall Design
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Jenna McKnight, Architectural Journalist and Senior Contributing Editor, Dezeen
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John Sivills, Lead Urban Designer, Central Planning Region Detroit Planning and Development Dept.
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Braulio Baptista, Partner, ZGF Architects (moderator)
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Toby Hasselgren, Partner, ZGF Architects
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Steven Lewis, Partner, ZGF Architects (moderator)
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Kate Mann, Partner, ZGF Architects
