Building on SOM’s continued engagement at international climate action events, Sustainability Director Mina Hasman will speak at the World Urban Forum in Baku this week.
Established by the United Nations in 2001, the World Urban Forum examines one of the most pressing challenges facing the world today: rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate, and public policy.
WUF13—co-organized by the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan—is expected to bring together thousands of participants, including representatives from national, regional, and local governments, academia, business, urban planning, and civil society. Hasman will contribute to a series of discussions and panels, including:
May 18, 2-4 p.m.
UK Booth
As part of an invite-only roundtable convened by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Mina will join representatives from UK institutions, NGOs, academia, and private-sector organizations to highlight UK leadership in climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable built environment practices. She will participate on behalf of the UK architectural profession.
May 19, 12:30 p.m.
Baku White City Booth, Urban Expo Zone
Hasman will also lead a presentation at the Baku White City Booth, exploring how regeneration and urban transformation can help shape more resilient, connected, and future-ready cities. The session will examine Baku’s remarkable transformation as a case study, drawing on SOM’s latest projects in the city. Following the presentation, Illya Azaroff, President of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), will join Hasman for a panel discussion.
Based in SOM’s London studio, Hasman is a recognized leader in sustainable design and climate advocacy. As a practice leader of SOM’s Sustainable Engineering Studio, she focuses on long-term vision and strategy for achieving excellence in practice. Furthermore, as the chair of SOM’s Climate Action Group, she oversees the firm’s progress on climate action as it relates to its global business operations and projects.
