Theresa Williamson: Catalyzing Community Change While Eliminating Stigma

Podcast Interview with Theresa Williamson In this episode, Dr. Theresa Williamson discusses the mission of her NGO Catalytic Communities and how she seeks to change the stigma around Favelas and their impact on the Rio de Janeiro community. Theresa Williamson is a city planner, founder, and executive director of Catalytic Communities, an NGO working since 2000 in support of Rio de Janeiro through Favela Community Land Trusts and sustainable networks. She is an outspoken advocate for the recognition of Favelas' residency right to be fully served as equal citizens. She has published several chapters for op-eds in the New York Times and cited in dozens of publications and television. Dr. Williamson received the 2012 National Association of Housing Rehabilitation and Redevelopment Officials Award for contributions to the International Housing Debate. Interviewers: Vanessa Guerra, PhD candidate in Environmental Design and Planning; Lehi Dowell, PhD candidate in Planning, Governance, and Globalization Presented in partnership with the Women and Minority Scholars Lecture Series, VT Language and Culture Institute.