S2 E7 - The Story Told by a Blueprint

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 7 of Between the Threads.In this engaging episode, host Somia Sadiq sits down with Donovan Toews, a seasoned planner and recent inductee into the College of Fellows, for an insightful conversation about the intersection of urban design and public engagement. Together, they explore Donovan’s 25-year journey in development, diving into how suburban planning, infrastructure, and public signage serve as reflections of a city's cultural story. Through their discussion, they highlight the critical role of thoughtful communication, structured dialogue, and empathy in helping communities navigate unexpected change and foster a true sense of belonging.Between the Threads is a podcast by Kahanee, a social enterprise dedicated to storytelling, peacebuilding, and systems change. The podcast is produced in partnership with Narratives, a purpose-driven firm offering holistic consulting in planning, impact assessment, capacity building, and design. Empowering change across Turtle Island.Learn more about the organizations behind Between the Threads: Kahanee at kahanee.ca and Narratives at narrativesinc.com.Host: Somia SadiqGuest: Donovan ToewsProduced by: Kahanee & NarrativesCurator: Courtney FriesenMusic: Lior Soltz - Glistening Ripples Lullaby - Creative Cut - DreamyAbout Our GuestInstagram: @donoisbonoLandmark: @landmarkwpg Website: landmarkplanning.caWe acknowledge that this work was created on Indigenous lands. We honour the Indigenous peoples who have cared for this land since time immemorial and continue to do so today.Connect With UsWebsite: kahanee.caInstagram: @kahanee.caLinkedIn: KahaneeIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Your support helps amplify meaningful conversations and the stories that connect us all.