On January 30, 2025, the AIANY Emerging New York Architects (ENYA) and Tooba Jalal, Assoc. AIA and Co-Chair (’22-’24), were awarded and recognized among a talented group of architects across the state of New York.

To the surprise of ENYA, the recognition came after a fruitful year of events across New York City. The event took place at the Crowne Plaza Albany – the Desmond Hotel, on a Thursday afternoon. Fahir Burak Unel, Assoc. AIA and Co-Chair (’19-present), traveled to Albany to personally receive AIA New York State’s Local Chapter Emerging Professionals Committee Award on behalf of AIANY ENYA. The recognition as a local chapter highlights our efforts and commitment to cultivating a community of future architects. The submission for the award recognized our previous events and series such as Beyond the Board, Arch Sandfest, and seasonal ARE Study Groups.

As for the second recognition, Tooba Jalal, Assoc. AIA & Co-Chair (’22-’24), received the 2025 Associate Award. Tooba Jalal’s contribution to the AIANY ENYA and abroad New York as a professional has left an imprint worth noting. Whether it be her monthly round-up email, significant effort towards new media and communication (co-establishing the Marketing Team), or with her presence and energy at each committee meeting, Tooba’s contribution has left ENYA in a position of ongoing prosperity. ENYA will always welcome her to any and all future monthly committee meetings!

All said, the AIANY ENYA committee has started the year with a great deal of introspection. Thank you to AIA New York State for this opportunity! We’ll take this forward, as we transition towards a new year and Co-Chair.

Acknowledgements: F. Burak Unel, Assoc. AIA & Co-Chair (’19-present) & Tooba Jalal, Assoc. AIA & Co-Chair (’22-’24). The Marketing Team: Brad DeBose, NOMA, Assoc. AIA (’24-present), Danyel D. Hueyopan, Assoc. AIA, (’24-present), and Ziani Rodriguez, AIA, (’24-present).