From market-driven to neighborhood-driven | Tom Van Geest

In this episode, I sit down with Tom van Geest, co-founder of Urban Green Deals, and a visionary urban planner whose work spans across continents, focusing on community-driven development. We delve into Tom’s unique approach, which challenges the traditional market-driven models of urban planning by placing the power in the hands of local communities. Tom shares compelling insights from his experiences in Iraq, particularly in the Kurdish region, where he worked on integrating refugee populations into existing communities. This discussion reveals the intricacies of balancing technical outcomes with the need for deep community engagement and how patient, strategic planning can lead to sustainable and inclusive urban development. Whether you’re an urban planning professional or simply passionate about the future of cities, this episode offers valuable lessons on creating resilient urban spaces that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of their inhabitants. Don’t miss out on future episodes—subscribe to the newsletter for updates and practical summaries.  Reach out at ⁠[email protected]⁠ for discussions or collaborations on people-centric urban development. To City Makers' website Design: ⁠Erezoo Original music: ⁠Guy Salomon