Last Thursday saw hundreds of architects and developers gather at The Workshop London on Albert Embankment to celebrate the launch of the Young Architects and Developers Alliance (Yada). This new organisation has been formed to facilitate greater understanding between developers and architects aged under 35 through a series of networking events, talks and seminars.

Yada is founded by property developer and Deputy Chair of London Festival of Architecture Martyn Evans and RIBA President Jane Duncan. With Martyn and Jane as patrons, the board is run by volunteers, comprising of four architects (including myself) and four developers.

It was great to see both professions in one room talking about some of the misconceptions that exist with only coloured stickers identifying architects and developers; yes, there were no names badges! The conversations ranged from how architects can be overprotective of their ideas and the challenges of procurement, to how developers can strengthen their relationships with architects from the outset.

The launch event was the first of many with the aspiration of replicating the model throughout the UK and internationally. For more information you can visit yada.build, where you can also sign up to hear about future events.