Further to my last post, NSW architect Dillon Kombumerri has emailed to let me know of the early formation of an International Network of Indigenous Architects (INIA), of which he’s a member. This group might interact with the educational and cultural aspirations of RAP, and the architecture fraternity nationally. At the moment, INIA is represented by four countries – Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. Other members include Patrick Stewart, who was a keynote speaker at our 2007 Indigenous Housing Conference and is a past president of the British Columbia Institute of Architects, and Brian Porter, who runs his own practice- TwoRow Architects (http://www.tworow.com/). Both are extremely important figures in Canada because of their work within indigenous communities. INIA plans to meet for the first time next year, hopefully in Australia. Dillon says that as well as formalising their charter, they’ll look at whether each of their home countries could follow the model set by respected Maori architect Rewi Thompson, in which a Kaumatua (Maori Elder) has been appointed with equal status alongside the NZIA President. The Elder brings a rigorous cultural awareness/support to any strategic and advisory role of the President as well as infusing this knowledge within the profession and graduate program more broadly. Dillon says, in Australia for example, the Elder’s elevated position could add gravitas to many of the aspiring outcomes outlined within the RAP. I wish them every success and look forward to working with them.