Nelton Barbosa, who graduated in 2018, has been named among the top 14 architectural assistants in the country, as listed by the Architects' Journal as part of its AJ100 New Talent campaign. 

Nelton Barbosa now works for Pollard Thomas Edward, in Islington, operating through an apprenticeship that combines his work with an MArch and post graduate diploma at London South Bank University. 

He was nominated for "his commitment and dedication in combining his studies with work in practice as an architectural apprentice and for his proactive promotion of the benefits of apprenticeships to the profession".

Nelton said, "I am thrilled with the results. Being recognised for the effort and work I put into my studies and career is very rewarding." 

According to the magazine, an architectural assistant occupies a "transitional role" moving from recent graduate to design professional. The AJ100 New Talent, it says, aims to "champion those who may not always be given the credit they deserve".

"Practices have a big responsibility to nurture these rising stars, who are the future of the profession," says the publication.

Nelton said, "I could not have done it without the help of my family and friends, as they supported me throughout the whole process. I thank my partner Paige Quickenden and my two daughters, Emily and Erin, for their support and encouragement throughout the architectural course."

Reflecting on his time in east London, he said, "Studying at UEL set my base foundations for my future and career in architecture. Learning from tutors and colleagues in the studio environment allowed me to develop critical skills and strengths that help me daily in practice and in my apprenticeship course. 

"The architecture course is very competitive and demanding in every aspect. However, having a passion for architecture and the support of family and friends around you makes it easier to fight for your place in the industry."

And Nelton had some advice for current UEL students looking to emulate his success.

He said, "Being at university can be scary at times - crits and submissions can be challenging - but use these positively to your advantage. They are helping you develop your skills and creativity for the practice environment which is constantly moving at a fast pace. 

"Always believe in your dreams and work hard to make your ideas come to life. And don't forget to have fun and explore the architectural world and your own ideas so that growing and learning is a continuous state of mind."

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