I am a senior urban planner with extensive experience in the state government, local government and the private sector. I have expertise in strategic planning, statutory planning, urban design and architecture, and am skilled in leadership, teamwork and community engagement. I am passionate about developing strategies that put people first and support a healthier built environment. I am also the Co-Chair of the NSW PIA Women in Planning Network. Why did I want to become a planner?....While working as an architect in Mumbai, I used to commute over 5 hours daily. This frustrated me and impacted my physical and mental health. But importantly, it made me realise how articulate planning policy and good urban design can shape people’s daily lives. I decided to study Master of City Planning from UNSW where I received the Future of Change scholarship. My thesis 'Optimising Travel Time for Health' explored the implications of Sydney's 30-Minute City and Melbourne's 20-Minute Neighbourhood plans on public well-being.