Abraham Laker
This October, in honour of Black History Month, we’re celebrating 31 Black professionals in property. Today we’re celebrating Abraham Laker FRTPI FRSA.
Abraham, a standout figure in the world of town planning and a Senior Associate at Rapleys. As a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Abraham boasts extensive knowledge of the planning system, having worked across both public and private sectors.
With over 10 years of experience, Abraham has supported development proposals through the planning system, providing strategic and expert advice on a wide range of projects from major infrastructure to high-density town centre developments. He has collaborated with local planning authorities, major housebuilders, public institutions, and private individuals, cementing his reputation as a key player in the London Planning team.
Abraham's dedication to championing diversity and inclusion in planning led to his election as a Fellow of the RTPI, the highest professional membership grade. Co-founding the BAME Planners Network, Abraham received the President’s Special Award for Planning Achievement in 2020, recognising his efforts to champion diversity within the sector.
Reflecting on his journey, Abraham says, “Being elected as a Fellow is a real honour, recognising my professional achievements and my engagement with the BAME Planners Network. It motivates me to continue championing diversity and inclusivity within the institute and the wider built environment. I hope to inspire younger people, especially those from ethnic minorities, to consider town planning as a career.”
Abraham’s passion for town planning was sparked during his undergraduate course at the The University of Manchester. Since becoming a Chartered Member in December 2014, he has been an active RTPI member, serving on the General Assembly, Education and Lifelong Learning Committee, and as an RTPI Future Planners Initiative Ambassador.
Abraham's story is one of perseverance and dedication, and he hopes his journey inspires others to pursue excellence in town planning. His work with the BAME Planners Network, provides a supportive platform for engagement, aiming to enhance representation and success for underrepresented groups within the planning profession.
The BAME Planners Network is free to join and welcomes anyone who supports its aims. It is not affiliated with any organisation or political party, but seeks to create a multicultural, multiracial society within the planning industry.
Abraham Laker’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and professional excellence sets a powerful example for future generations of planners. We look forward to seeing how his leadership continues to influence and inspire the planning profession.
