Zaineh Ghanayem

Zaineh Ghanayem, an architectural designer originally from Palestine and born in Jordan, moved to Chicago when she was seven years old. She earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Illinois Chicago, where she viewed architecture as more than the design of buildings, but a discipline that explores how spaces can reflect and respond to the complexities of human experience. Her perspective on architecture is heavily influenced by her background and identity. She views architecture as a means to amplify marginalized voices and contribute to the broad and essential discourse on inclusion and justice. She is the recipient of the AIA Chicago Foundation 2025 Martin Roche Travel Scholarship.