This joint webinar featuring the Black Planners & Urbanists Association (BPUA) explores how equity and anti-racism informed planning practices can strengthen planning outcomes, institutions, and the planning profession, across Canada. Drawing on the lived experiences, leadership, and community planning being undertaken by Black Planning professionals, the session examines how systemic barriers shape planning processes and outcomes, and how planners can actively work to dismantle them.

Designed for planners across public, private, and non-profit sectors, this webinar supports participants in translating equity commitments into concrete actions that advance justice, inclusion, and excellence in the Canadian planning practice.

Moderator

Bryan Sherwood, Director of Development, Tridel

Bryan has a master’s degree in Urban Planning from the University of Toronto and a specialization in community engagement, he also has 15 years of active residential development and planning experience. Bryan started his career in the public sector and currently works for Tridel.

Speakers

Abigail Moriah RPP, MCIP, Executive Director / Founder, Black Planning Project

Abigail Moriah, Founder of Black Planning Project, is a connector, facilitator and planner specializing in affordable housing, equity in development and Black Planning. Abigail is a founding member of the mentorship initiative MIIPOC (2019) and the Black Planners and Urbanists Association (2020).

Dr. Marie Cecile Kotyk, Assistant Professor and Design Justice Research Chair, University of Calgary

Dr. Kotyk is an Assistant Professor and Design Justice Research Chair at the U of C. A social planner with 15+ years’ experience, she founded the UDesign Justice Initiative and Canada’s first Black Housing Equity Framework, advising governments and communities on equitable, community-led planning.

Michael Cook LLB, JD, Partner, Davies Howe LLP

Michael is a partner at Davies Howe LLP practicing land use planning and development law. Michael has also taught planning law at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and is a member of the board of directors of the Black Planners and Urbanists Association.

Sara Abdella Associate – Land & Infrastructure Development, StrategyCorp

Sara has a strong passion for urban design, community engagement, and affordable housing. She holds a Master of Science in Planning from the University of Toronto.