Planning Futures: MScPl Professional Development Day

The Department of Geography & Planning hosted its annual MScPl Professional Development Day, bringing together students, alumni, and industry leaders for a dynamic day of learning, connection, and career-building. Designed to strengthen students’ competitive edge in today’s evolving planning landscape, the event created meaningful opportunities to engage directly with professionals across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

Panelists including Anna Wynveen (Bousfields), Joe Mohamed (LEA Group), Shannon Spencer (Social Planning Toronto), and Felix Fung (Ontario Ministry of Transportation) shared insights on career pathways, emerging industry trends, and the skills shaping the future of planning.

The afternoon continued with a speed networking session, where advisors such as Allison Oki (Toronto Lands Corporation), Angela Gibson (TTC), Anson Ma (Ontario Ministry of Transportation), Becky Katz (City of Toronto), Brenton Nader (ERA Architects), Igor Samardzic (City of Toronto), Ira Banks (City of Toronto), Marissa Irene Uli (LURA Consulting), and Sarah Phipps (City of Toronto) connected one-on-one with students to offer tailored guidance and career insights.

The day concluded with a reception welcoming members of the Planning Alumni Committee (PAC), including Amina Menkad (City of Mississauga), Hamza Chatila (Osmington Gerofsky Development Corp.), Sean Lee (Altree Developments), and Melissa McEnroe (CreateTO), providing students with the opportunity to engage in conversations with alumni about their experiences.

MScPl Professional Development Day continues to reflect the Department’s commitment to fostering community, mentorship, and career readiness—empowering students to step confidently into the next chapter of their planning careers.

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