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About SOSA

Vision.

Architectural landscape that respects people, their diverse backgrounds and perspectives

Mission.

Community that promotes a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the professions of architecture and design in Canada.   

Values.

  • Creating Inclusive Environments 
  • Celebrating Diversity  
  • Building Equity & Trust 
  • Promoting a culture of Collaborations & inspirational storytelling 
SOCIETY OF SOUTH ASIAN ARCHITECTS, CANADA 

SOSA is the first community-based organization that provides a platform for South Asian representation to design professionals in Canada.

Meet The Team

Our team includes design professionals with diverse cultural backgrounds and aims to empower communities through initiatives that foster mentorship, education, networking, and outreach.

“Alex was there every step of the way and brought my vision further than I could have imagined!”

Josh MargolisFounder of DAF
Executive Director

Tushar Negi

Tushar is originally from Dehradun, a state Capital in North India nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Growing up in various parts of India due to his father’s military career, he was exposed to a diverse range of ethnicities and cultures, each shaping his worldview and fostering a deep appreciation for diversity. 

At 16, Tushar moved to New Delhi to complete his high school education and pursue a degree in architecture at Amity University. In 2015, Tushar moved to Canada to broaden his horizons and further his expertise. He earned a Graduate Certificate in Construction Project Management from Fanshawe College, London, ON. 

With over 12 years of experience, Tushar has developed a strong foundation in designing and managing mixed-use, residential, and commercial projects in both Canada and India. His expertise in project management, from design development to contract administration, has been instrumental in his career. Tushar is a registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) and the Council of Architecture, India (COA). His certifications as a LEED AP BD+C and WELL AP accredited professional reflect his commitment to environmental stewardship and human well-being. 

Through SOSA, Tushar aims to inspire and support the next generation of architects, promoting a culture of inclusivity and creativity. Tushar strongly believes in having a collaborative approach, thrives in team environments, and deeply appreciates the unique contributions of each team member. He approaches leadership with a focus on building strong, cohesive teams that work together to achieve common goals. Tushar believes that the best ideas come from collective effort and diverse perspectives, always valuing the input of others and fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can shine. 

Director of Marketing

Saachi Padubidri

With over nine years’ experience in Architectural Design, Planning & Detailing Saachi can provide solutions to a wide variety of projects ranging from high-rise residential to mixed use. Working with International design firms & a M.Arch degree from the AA School of Architecture, England, Saachi has demonstrated hands-on understanding of sustainable design practices, keeping site and climate specific environmental considerations while designing. As an Architect with a specialization in Sustainable Environmental Design Saachi’s work experience ranges from design and execution of buildings in different countries as well as research-led, evidence-based articles to support a carbon neutral and comfort driven future. Her paper on ‘User Adaptability and Comfort in Urban Outdoor Spaces’ is part of the PLEA 2017 publication. As part of the core design team, Saachi caters to striking a balance between the clients brief and a demanding city skyline. As a design principle it’s imperative the function of the building is considered primary and is a driving factor to be sustainable whilst still creating a prominent form. 

Director of Outreach

Tejasi Gadkari

Tejasi has over 10 years of architectural design experience and has contributed to numerous public and mixed-use projects, such as Ontario Provincial Police detachments, courthouses, data centers, libraries, art galleries, and retail spaces. Tejasi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in architecture and Building Science from Chandigarh College of Architecture, India in 2013. She migrated to Canada in 2016 and has worked for firms in Toronto, Kitchener and Markham. She has also pursued continuing education courses from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MITx) and Toronto Metropolitan University. She is a recipient of three University Gold Medals and was featured in Maclean’s for her contribution to a project at WZMH Architects. As the Director of Outreach at SOSA, Tejasi works with community leaders and stakeholders to support newcomers in Canada, helping them reach their full potential and advocating for positive changes for design professionals. Through SOSA, she is focused to assist those looking to advance in their careers, support student communities, advocating for the architecture profession, and aiding fresh graduates by providing tools and information they need to break into the job market. 

Treasurer

Aman Yousuf

Aman Yousuf is a creative soul with a love for designing beautiful spaces. Originally from Karachi, Aman grew up in Dubai and moved to Canada in 2018. With over a decade of experience in both the Middle East and Canada, he’s had the chance to work on everything from residential towers to office buildings, hotels, and retail malls. For Aman, it’s all about bringing innovative ideas to life through a thoughtful, iterative process.  
 
Aman thrives on collaboration. He loves working with a talented team of designers, architects, and developers to create environments that not only look stunning but also serve the community well. His approach blends creativity with practicality to achieve the best results. 
 
Outside of his day job, Aman is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in architecture. He’s a co-founder and the Treasurer at SOSA, where he takes care of the financial side of things, ensuring the organization can continue to grow and make a positive impact. 

Director of Public Relations

Kanika Kaushal

Kanika is a licensed Architect from New Delhi, India where she co-founded Brickwood419 Design Studio which specializes in Design-Build projects. In 2014, Kanika migrated to Canada to pursue her M. Arch at University of Waterloo where she was exposed to heritage architecture, research, and critical design thinking. Passionate about cultural landscapes, teaching, and mentorship, she worked as an Assistant professor in India and as a teaching assistant in Canada to mentor students by focusing on the core areas of the profession and embedding a sense of responsibility towards society and the environment.  

Kanika is dedicated to promoting architecture in Canada with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Since 2014, she has mentored students and young professionals. In 2018, she started I-CAN Design to help design professionals moving to Canada from all over the world. In 2021, she co-founded the Society of South Asian Architects (SOSA), the first platform for South Asian representation in Canada. As the Director of Public Relations, she stresses the importance of diversity and believes that architecture is better when it includes different cultures and viewpoints. Kanika’s work focuses on maintaining the image of the not-for-profit by building positive connections with local architectural organizations, designers, and students and increasing awareness of this platform with South Asian communities.