Published 15/10/2026
wienerberger supports future architects through Manchester School of Architecture bursary
At wienerberger, we are continuing our commitment to supporting skills in the architectural community through a bursary programme for students at the Manchester School of Architecture (MSA).
The programme provides financial support to students during their studies, helping to reduce financial pressures and enable them to focus on developing the skills, knowledge and confidence required for a career in architecture.
The bursary forms part of our building for what’s next ambition, which recognises the importance of investing not only in sustainable building solutions, but also in the people who will shape the future of the built environment.
Supporting future architectural talent
Architecture plays a critical role in addressing the challenges facing the built environment, from sustainability and decarbonisation to housing quality and placemaking. By supporting students at MSA, wienerberger aims to contribute to the development of future architects who will go on to influence how buildings and communities are designed.
This initiative provides a £1,000 bursary to students in MSA’s PgCert Architecture and Contemporary Practice pursuing RIBA Part 3. In addition to the bursary donation, we cover the first year RIBA membership fee for recipients, to further support them as they begin their professional architectural career.
Making a difference for students
For many students, the cost of architectural education can present a significant challenge. Recipients of the wienerberger bursary have highlighted the practical and emotional impact that financial support can have during this stage of their studies.
One recipient, Rowdah Charbak, said:
“Receiving the wienerberger bursary has made a huge difference for me. Funding the Part 3 course on my own felt daunting, and at times it seemed like it might hold me back from moving forward in my career. This award has taken away some of that financial pressure and allowed me to focus fully on what matters: becoming an architect.”
Encouraging confidence, inclusion and sustainability
Other recipients have also highlighted the wider impact of the bursary beyond financial support. Sasina Chanaphai described the award as an important recognition at a pivotal point in her career:
“Receiving this award means more than financial support; it represents recognition, belief, and a sense of belonging. It allows me to focus entirely on the academic and reflective demands of my Part 3 studies, without the weight of financial strain.”
“As someone from a minority background, this award reinforces that there is space in architecture for diverse voices who value empathy, sustainability, and ethical practice. It reminds me that my perspective has value and that the profession is stronger for it.”
This award represents more than funding - it is an affirmation of my potential and a motivation to contribute meaningfully to the future of a more responsible built environment.”
Similarly, Julia Lauri De Funes highlighted the confidence the bursary had given her as she approached the final stage of qualification:
“Being awarded the wienerberger bursary is a significant recognition in my career path. It encourages me to keep designing, expanding my knowledge and pursuing my career goals. Reducing financial pressure is enabling me to focus on gaining the skills and expertise needed to reach this final stage.”
Building for what’s next
Through initiatives such as the bursary programme with the Manchester School of Architecture, wienerberger continues to invest in long‑term skills development across the architectural and construction sectors. Building for what’s next means taking a long‑term view - supporting the skills, confidence and diversity that will shape the future of the built environment. By investing in architectural education, we are helping to empower the next generation of architects to design more sustainable, responsible and resilient places for communities to thrive.