Black Excellence in Planning

Professional Background and Expertise

Marie Cecile Kotyk is a seasoned urban planner and housing practitioner with over 15 years of experience across both public and non-profit sectors. Her work focuses on community development projects, addressing affordable housing and homelessness issues, and conducting research on spatial justice and racial inequities in the built environment. She is also the founder and principal consultant at Kotyk Consulting and serves as a sessional instructor at the University of Calgary’s School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape Architecture.

Spatial Justice and Inspiring Change

Cecile’s dedication to spatial justice and racial equity is evident in her pursuit of a Doctor of Design degree at the University of Calgary, which she successfully achieved in the summer of 2024.

Her research focused on combating anti-Black systemic racism and promoting Black inclusion in the housing sector. Her contributions earned her the 2022/2023 Alberta Human Rights and Multiculturalism Award at the doctoral level.

Despite initial reservations about teaching, Cecile finds motivation in the positive changes within academia. She is inspired by the support of her faculty and the diversity among her students. Seeing how eager racialized students are to learn and effect change drives her efforts. As she puts it, “It’s about being there for them and recognizing their experiences, which makes the effort worthwhile.”

Embracing Self-Belief and Paving the Way for Future Planners

Cecile offers empowering advice for aspiring Black planners, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and understanding one’s value, regardless of external validation. She encourages individuals to trust their abilities and pursue their goals, even in the face of limited representation in certain positions. Cecile believes that self-worth should not depend on others’ perceptions but on one’s own belief in their capabilities.

Championing Representation and Mentorship in Urban Planning

Cecile reflects on her experiences and the profound impact of representation in the field of urban planning. She shares a particularly inspiring moment when a student, who was initially unaware of the field, became motivated to pursue it after learning about Cecile’s work. This interaction reinforced her belief in the power of representation and mentorship. Cecile aspires to see more committed Black planners who actively support and mentor others in the field.

Looking ahead, Cecile is enthusiastic about an upcoming project: creating a children’s book on anti-Black racism and homelessness. Collaborating with her son, she aims to educate young readers about inclusivity and kindness. Additionally, Cecile is passionate about mentoring high school students and encouraging them to explore careers in planning, addressing the need for greater representation from all racialized communities in the profession.

“Believe in yourself. Just because you may not see people in certain positions does not mean you cannot be in that position yourself. Know your value and trust in your abilities, as this self-belief will enable you to pave the way for others.”

Journey and Expertise

Martin holds a Bachelor’s of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo. He is a Registered Professional Planner of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute and a Full Member of the Canadian Institute of Planners. With over 15 years of experience in the private sector, Martin has developed a deep understanding of the planning process from conceptual stages to construction. His expertise lies in securing development approvals, managing consultant teams, creating policies, liaising with various approval authorities, and executing final agreements.

Key Achievements

Martin’s impressive portfolio at Weston Consulting includes a diverse range of projects such as high-rise apartments, plans of subdivision and condominium, and mixed-use centers. One project he is particularly proud of is the redevelopment of the Casablanca Hotel in Grimsby into a mixed-use community featuring hotels, commercial and residential spaces, and open areas. Martin was responsible for securing development approvals for this project, which took significant time to get approved and showcases his dedication and expertise in the field.

Overcoming Challenges

Throughout his career, Martin has faced challenges in determining the right firm or employer for his growth. Despite these obstacles, he values the lessons learned at each stop, believing that the heartache and struggle have shaped him into the planner he is today. Embracing every experience, Martin acknowledges that each step in his journey has been crucial to his development.

Vision for the Future

Martin encourages aspiring planners to explore all opportunities to find their true calling. He advises, “Do your best to try it all, to figure out where you need to be.” Looking ahead, Martin remains committed to his exciting work and projects, continuing to contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable communities.

“My career has been a journey in terms of where I need to be. I’ve learned something at every stop which has made me the planner I am today, so I don’t think I’d change anything. The heartache and the struggle are important, to a point. Everything that I’ve done has molded me to the person and planner that I am. So I embrace all of that.”

From Academic Roots to Professional Impact

Alexandra is a dynamic force in the world of urban planning, blending her passion for sustainable cities, equitable systems, and resilient infrastructure into every project she undertakes. As a founder of Untitled Planning, a Project Officer at the Infrastructure Institute, and the creator of the Urban Limitrophe podcast, Alexandra’s career is a testament to her dedication to creating vibrant communities through innovative urban planning strategies.

With a Master of Science in Planning and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Human Geography and Urban Studies from the University of Toronto, Alexandra is well-equipped to address urban challenges. Her expertise, particularly in community economic development and cultural planning, has been pivotal at the Infrastructure Institute, where she co-leads award-winning projects and supports initiatives like the Social Purpose Real Estate Accelerator. Alexandra’s work in coordinating placemaking projects across Southern Ontario has also played a key role in aiding economic recovery for Business Improvement Areas.

Passion for Equitable Urban Spaces

Alexandra’s passion for urban planning is rooted in her desire to create sustainable and equitable systems within urban environments. She is deeply committed to contributing to resilient infrastructure, vibrant communities, and equitable policies. Her work is driven by the belief that collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions for the challenges faced by cities and communities.

“Whether through podcasting or my various roles, working with diverse communities and experts to address complex urban issues is both challenging and rewarding,” Alexandra shares. “I am constantly inspired by how coming together creates innovative solutions to our cities’ and communities’ problems.”

Building Connections and Expanding Horizons

One of Alexandra’s key philosophies is the importance of building communities, connections, and relationships in the city-building sector. She believes that reaching out to other planners and professionals in the field can lead to valuable collaborations and new ideas. “If you want to go far, go together,” she often reminds herself and others. Alexandra emphasizes the value of being confident in one’s abilities and not being afraid to reach out and engage with colleagues in the field.

Travel has also played a significant role in shaping Alexandra’s approach to urban planning. She believes that experiencing different ways of living and understanding how policies impact populations globally can prevent stagnation and inspire more well-rounded planning practices.

Democratizing Urban Planning

In her entrepreneurial journey, Alexandra founded her long-running podcast on urbanism in Africa/African diaspora, Urban Limitrophe, exploring different aspects of city-building and encouraging public involvement in advocating for better urban spaces. She also co-founded Untitled Planning, a multi-media platform and research consulting firm dedicated to democratizing urban planning. By making the field more accessible, Untitled Planning addresses the often opaque nature of urban planning through various media projects.

On the consulting side, Untitled Planning engages in research and collaborates with organizations to support community economic development and housing initiatives. Alexandra is excited by this work and finds it fulfilling, as it directly contributes to the development and empowerment of communities.

Looking Forward

Looking ahead, Alexandra remains committed to pushing the boundaries of urban planning. Her work, driven by a passion for sustainable and equitable cities, continues to make a lasting impact through innovative projects and collaborative efforts. Whether through her podcast, consulting work, or initiatives at the Infrastructure Institute, Alexandra is shaping the future of urban planning.

“Travel expands my horizons and deepens my understanding of the topics I learned in school. It’s important to see how other people are living and recognize that there are alternatives to how things are done.”

Background and Expertise

Aisha is a land use planner and urbanist with a deep commitment to creating equitable, sustainable, and vibrant communities. Based in Toronto, Aisha also channels her creative energy into photography, focusing on both street and portrait photography. Her work, which includes projects like “Bathroom Break” and “By the Sea,” captures the essence of everyday life and the transformations within her surroundings.

Motivation and Inspiration

Aisha draws her motivation from the clarity of her vision and its impact on the communities she serves. She believes that a well-defined vision and a focus on the people it benefits enhance both personal drive and project effectiveness. This alignment makes her work more meaningful and impactful.

Her motivation is also fueled by the integration of her passions—urban planning and photography. By blending these interests, Aisha captures and conveys the essence of the communities she works with, merging creative and practical aspects into her projects. This dual focus helps her stay dedicated and inspired.

Aisha finds fulfillment in projects that address pressing needs and offer tangible benefits to communities. Seeing the direct impact of her efforts reinforces her commitment and drives her to continue striving for positive change. Reflecting on her journey, she stays connected to the core values that inspired her entry into urban planning, using them to guide her work and enhance its impact.

Embracing Your Unique Path

Aisha offers valuable advice for those entering the field of urban planning. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and harnessing the power of one’s unique background and experiences. Each person’s story and perspective are assets that can greatly enrich their professional journey.

Aisha encourages newcomers to make their unique experiences a strength and to explore diverse opportunities within the field. She underscores that you don’t have to fit into traditional roles or paths; instead, you can create a career that aligns with your interests and passions. Building connections through lateral networking and reaching out to individuals who share similar experiences can open doors and provide invaluable support.

Reflecting on the Past

Looking back, Aisha wishes she had started networking earlier and balanced her academic focus with creating connections. While she valued her studies, she recognizes the benefits of early engagement with the field and learning from others. Additionally, she reflects on her research paper and acknowledges that pursuing topics she was more passionate about, such as housing and equality, would have been more fulfilling.

Highlighting Milestones

A notable project Aisha enjoyed working on involved developing a five-storey student-focused housing project in Kensington Market, where she had to navigate the community’s sensitivities and worked to ensure mindful planning. Aisha also takes pride in a twenty-storey building project in North York designed specifically for people with developmental disabilities. These projects exemplify her commitment to impactful, meaningful work and reflect her dedication to addressing the real needs of communities.

“When the vision is clear and focused on benefiting people, the drive to make it happen becomes stronger, and the outcome is more impactful.”

Foundations and Professional Experience

Imai Thomas Welch is a Principal Planner based in Edmonton, Alberta, with a career spanning over 15 years in development planning. As a mixed-race member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Imai brings a unique perspective to his work, informed by his experience of growing up BIPOC in Alberta. His journey in the planning profession has exposed him to both the challenges and the progress made in addressing diversity and equity issues in the field.

The Impact of Planning

Imai finds motivation in knowing that his work directly shapes the built environment around him. He takes pride in being a visible representation of diversity in the field, believing that his presence as a racialized professional can inspire others to explore planning as a career path.

As Imai himself puts it, “knowing that my being visibly not-white and a RPP (registered professional planner) could potentially inspire others to consider planning as a career path” reinforces his dedication to his profession and its broader impact.

Advocating for Inclusivity

Imai envisions a future where the planning profession is even more inclusive. He hopes for municipal administrations to be more open to a diverse range of candidates. “I would love for our profession to be much more open to different types of people,” he states. He believes that a more inclusive approach would not only attract a wider variety of talent but also improve retention by creating a more welcoming work environment.

Imai’s perspective highlights the importance of diversity and inclusivity in urban planning and the profound impact it can have on shaping equitable and representative urban environments. His dedication to advancing these values continues to drive his work and inspire others in the field.

“Go for it! Planning is an amazing profession that can give you a great career, a stable career, and give you the opportunity to influence the cities that you live in.”

Background and Expertise

Ruth Belay is an urban planner specializing in community engagement, urban redevelopment, and transit planning, with a particular focus on afrocentric approaches to planning. She has extensive experience working with Black communities in the Greater Toronto Area on issues related to community ownership, mentorship initiatives, and affordable housing. Ruth’s professional journey includes collaborations with various City of Toronto divisions and Provincial ministries. Her commitment to creating livable and thriving communities is evident in her dedication to working closely with residents to ensure that their places to live, play, and work meet their needs and aspirations.

Passion for Community Engagement

Ruth’s passion for community engagement stems from her desire to help people in a meaningful way. Although many associate the desire to help others with professions like medicine, Ruth has found her calling in urban planning. She is motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through her work. For Ruth, the core of her work is about assisting others and contributing positively to the communities she serves, aligning with her skills and personal approach.

Embracing Networking and Navigating Career Anxiety

Ruth offers valuable advice for those entering the field of urban planning and community engagement. She emphasizes the importance of networking and learning through conversations with people from various professions, communities, and lived experiences. Engaging with a diverse range of individuals can provide insights and knowledge that are crucial for professional growth and development.

Ruth also shares wisdom about managing anxiety related to career paths. She believes that worrying about finding the right job or whether a job will take you where you want to go can be exhausting. Instead, she advises investing in the journey and being present in the moment. By focusing on gaining skills and insights from current experiences, professionals can better navigate their career paths, which may differ from their initial expectations.

Valuing Experience and Driving Community Change

Reflecting on her journey, Ruth emphasizes the value of embracing the diverse experiences and insights gained from various professional roles. She believes that analyzing and extracting lessons from these experiences is key to building a fulfilling career. By focusing on the journey rather than fixating on future outcomes, professionals can better appreciate the skills and knowledge they acquire along the way.

One of Ruth’s most rewarding projects has been her involvement with Black Urbanism in Little Jamaica, particularly the introduction and launch of the land trust. This innovative initiative has been a significant learning experience for her and demonstrates the power of community-led efforts to drive positive change. Ruth looks forward to continuing her work on this project and other initiatives that promote community ownership and empowerment.

“Being in community motivates me the most. I want to be able to do something that helps people in a meaningful way, builds on the skills and approaches I want to use, and is done in collaboration with the community.”

Background and Expertise

Stephanie Allen is a distinguished real estate executive with extensive experience across private, non-profit, and government sectors. Recognized nationally as a housing expert, her career covers everything from market developments to supporting homeless individuals in encampments. She holds a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in urban studies, which earned international recognition in 2020 for her research on Black community displacement.

As the founder and principal of Adinkra Strategies, Stephanie focuses on creating accessible and affordable real estate strategies and projects. She is also a co-founder of Hogan’s Alley Society, a director at the Federation of Black Canadians, and has served on Vancouver’s Development Permit Advisory. In 2021, she received the BC Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Award in the Breaking Barriers category.

Passion for Social Justice and Community Well-Being

Stephanie’s passion for social justice and community well-being drives her professional endeavors. She is deeply committed to ensuring that everyone has a home where they feel loved and cared for, recognizing housing as a fundamental human right. Her work is deeply rooted in the principles of accessibility, affordability, and social equity, aiming to create inclusive spaces that promote dignity and respect for all individuals. Stephanie’s dedication to social justice is reflected in her efforts to combat systemic racism and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.

Her approach involves addressing both immediate housing needs and long-term solutions that foster sustainable and equitable development. Through her consultancy, Adinkra Strategies, Stephanie collaborates with diverse stakeholders to design housing projects that not only meet economic and environmental standards but also advance social justice goals. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of development are shared equitably, particularly among Black, Indigenous, and other racialized communities.

Engaging with Critical Thinkers

Stephanie offers valuable advice for those entering urban planning and real estate. She stresses the importance of engaging with the work of critical thinkers who have examined systemic oppression, including Angela Davis, Bell Hooks, Paulo Freire, Walter Rodney, and Frantz Fanon. Stephanie advises emerging professionals to uphold their integrity and values, resist the allure of power, and avoid dehumanizing others or being dehumanized themselves. She believes that a deep understanding of the systems we navigate is essential for driving meaningful change.

Leveraging Life Lessons

Stephanie reflects on the importance of recognizing the ups and downs of life as valuable data that can be used to build the life one wants. She says, “There’s always people you would have told off differently, or jobs you might have left sooner. That is all data. It’s your life data. And you take your life data and you analyze it and you extract from it, and you use it to build the life you want and that you deserve.”

She is currently focused on exploring how the private sector can contribute to affordable housing solutions. Stephanie believes that neither the government nor the non-profit sector alone can solve the housing crisis. Instead, she advocates for a model in the for-profit sector that combines socially motivated investors with the entire supply chain, prioritizing solutions over profit. This innovative approach aims to address the housing crisis that threatens all communities.

“I think we have to engage the thinkers that came before us because they have been dealing with these systems for a very long time, and so reading and becoming very immersed in our ancestors, I think, is really important to understand the systems we’re navigating.”

Educational Foundation

Damilola Oyewale holds a master’s degree in Rural Planning and Development from the University of Guelph, complemented by a strong background in Agricultural Administration. His academic journey has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of rural and agricultural issues, which he applies in his professional work. Damilola’s recent thesis explores housing, welfare, and social integration for International Agricultural Workers in Ontario. In addition to his academic achievements, he actively contributes to the President’s Advisory Committee on Anti-Racism at the University of Guelph, showcasing his commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable practices in his field.

Navigating the Path with Proactive Learning

Reflecting on his journey so far, Damilola acknowledges that he would have benefited from recognizing earlier the value of proactive learning. He emphasizes that immersing oneself in additional reading—such as case studies, precedents, and future planning initiatives—can provide a significant advantage in work settings by building a solid knowledge base. He notes that during his university years, he focused solely on mandatory texts and later continued this habit in the workplace, only engaging with materials deemed “essential” to his tasks. It was only when he expanded his reading and knowledge beyond the basics that he began to see more opportunities and successes.

A Transformative Field

Damilola is particularly excited about the transformative power of education and research in the field of urban planning. “What excites me most about planning is the immediate and transformative impact that education and research can have on real-world practice,” he shares. The interdisciplinary nature of planning, he explains, allows knowledge gained from rigorous study and analysis to quickly influence how communities develop sustainable solutions to complex challenges. This direct connection between planning theory and tangible outcomes in the field is what he finds most impressive.

A Project Close to the Heart

Currently, at the University of Guelph, Damilola is working with a research team on the International Agricultural Workers Housing project. This initiative aims to improve living conditions for agricultural workers in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The project emphasizes creating a supportive and inclusive environment, highlighting the essential role these workers play in the agricultural sector.

“Our profession is in dire need of your unique perspective and lived experience. Do not be discouraged by obstacles, and to help you take your place and find your voice, make sure to cultivate mentors, forge connections, say yes to every opportunity.”

Background and Expertise

Eldon Theodore is a distinguished Partner at MHBC in Woodbridge, Ontario, with over 22 years of experience in urban planning and design. Holding both an Honours Bachelor Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Waterloo and a Masters in Urban Design Studies from the University of Toronto, Eldon has built a career that spans urban design, community planning, and public consultation.

Diverse Portfolio of Urban Planning Excellence

Eldon’s vast experience encompasses a wide range of projects, from urban design and community planning to securing development approvals and managing complex initiatives. His work has included developing architectural control guidelines, leading community charrettes, and presenting to various planning bodies. His projects span urban intensification, master planning, community design, and architectural guidelines. Eldon has handled development approvals, coordinated intricate projects, and carried out special studies. Notably, he has contributed significantly as a member of the design review panel for the City of Hamilton and through his participation in key planning conferences.

Motivation and Inspiration

Eldon finds deep satisfaction in his role as a senior planner, particularly in mentoring and supporting the next generation of professionals. He values the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience, recognizing the importance of guiding others through the challenges he once faced. Eldon’s dedication to mentoring is reflected in his involvement with organizations like the Black Planners and Urbanists Association and his contributions to various planning boards and committees.

His motivation is also driven by a desire to give back to the profession and influence its evolution. Eldon sees every development application as a chance to contribute to meaningful change, whether it’s a project he’s passionate about or one he finds less engaging. His commitment to the field is reinforced by his belief in the power of his contributions to effect positive transformation within the industry.

Building Confidence and Asserting Your Place

Eldon encourages emerging professionals to trust in their abilities and assert their rightful place in the field. He stresses that everyone deserves to be confident in their qualifications and not let self-doubt, especially related to their background, hinder their progress. Eldon’s advice underscores the importance of recognizing one’s value and not being afraid to seek support when needed.

“The idea that I’m able to maybe redirect the ship or at least leave a mark somewhere that’s meaningful to me is important. It’s reinforced with every development application I work on because it’s in the same industry that I’m trying to participate in its evolution and change going forward.”