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.
