The Festival of the Future 2025, held in London, aimed to inspire the next generation of city makers by providing exposure to career pathways in architecture, urban planning, and design.
Young people in Ealing with a passion for building, design, and architecture were given a unique opportunity to explore career possibilities at a prestigious national event last week. The Festival of the Future 2025, held in London, brought together aspiring architects and designers to engage with industry experts, gain hands-on experience, and network with professionals shaping the built environment.
Children and young people up to the age of 25 participated in various interactive activities led by seasoned professionals. Hosted by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in collaboration with Beyond the Box, the festival aimed to inspire the next generation of city makers by providing exposure to career pathways in architecture, urban planning, and design.
Thanks to Ealing Council’s funding of 200 places, attendees from the borough were able to experience the event free of charge. Over two days, from 14 to 15 March, they took part in workshops, industry debates, and group design challenges, gaining valuable insights into the world of architecture and urban development.
Exploring Careers in the Built Environment
For many attendees, the festival was an eye-opening experience that broadened their understanding of career opportunities in architecture and design. Whether choosing GCSE subjects, preparing for university, or on the cusp of graduation, young people had the chance to seek guidance from career experts on various routes into the profession.
Olivia Benjamin-MacDonald, a student preparing to begin an internship with Build the Way, shared her enthusiasm for the event:
“The Festival of the Future was an amazing event. The educational approach to architecture was really inspiring and set the tone for future events. It is important for me to reframe and learn what it means to work in the built environment, broadening the social role of an architect or a designer. Partners truly reflected sustainable thinking about the future of diverse cities. I was really happy I could be amongst them and the festival as a whole.”
Investing in Creative Futures
Ealing Council’s commitment to supporting young people in creative industries was underscored by Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, cabinet member for decent living incomes.
“Funding places at events like the Festival of the Future is just one of the many ways we are helping to create better career progression pathways for young people. I was delighted to attend a creative workshop at the festival with pupils from Brentside High School who thoroughly enjoyed it.
“These events play a vital role in opening up exciting industries like architecture and design to those who might not otherwise have access to them. The creative sector is hugely important to our borough, and is one of the key areas highlighted for further growth in our jobs and skills strategy. By supporting local people to get into creative careers, we will fulfil our promise of ensuring that all residents can access a decent living income from a good, well-paid job.”
Pathways into Architecture and Design
For those inspired to pursue a career in architecture, RIBA offers information on different qualification pathways and support available in architectural education. Young people can also find free, interactive career support through the Work Ealing website, which provides virtual and in-person guidance on entering the creative industries.
For individuals exploring career opportunities beyond the creative sector, the West London Skills and Work Finder website offers information on local training courses, career events, and support for job seekers. Additionally, the Learn Ealing website provides courses in professional employability, English and maths, and creative arts for young adults looking to enhance their skills.
Joining the Borough’s Creative Network
Ealing’s commitment to fostering young and diverse talent in creative industries is reinforced through its creative sector forum. This group, comprising more than 50 local creative businesses, is dedicated to driving industry growth and providing opportunities for emerging talent. Businesses and individuals keen to get involved can reach out to invest@ealing.gov.uk for further information.
