As an urbanist with a professional architectural background, I have experience in urban design, architecture, and city-making in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, and Australia. My portfolio encompasses an array of projects, from transport / rail, commercial architecture, hospitality, infrastructure, and large-scale mixed-use developments. with a strong emphasis on masterplanning and urban design. These projects have profoundly influenced my architectural perspective, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that meet functional requirements while using design and innovation as placemakingtools capable of shaping cities and integrating communities. My interest in cities led me to academia and then a PhD, to apply rigorous standards to spatial research and further deepened my understandingof spatial and social dynamics within urban environments. Through interdisciplinary research, I have explored innovative approaches that use non-expert participant-oriented methods into the design process,aiming to create more inclusive and responsive urban spaces. I have a unique skillset that combines design expertise, technical knowledge, and project management experience, with critical analytical thinking and academic writing and research skills, giving me the ability to communicate across diverse audiences to positively shape cities, communities. and environments towards more equitable, resilient, and sustainable urban places.