Urban Limitrophe

A gift isn't always free. But when a foreign government offers to build your parliament—for free—it's easy to miss where the real cost lands.In this episode, Dr. Innocent (Ib) Batsani-Ncube discusses China's role in constructing parliament buildings across Africa, and what these projects reveal about architecture, power, procurement, and urban development.Drawing from years of research across Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho, Ib unpacks how these landmark buildings reshape cities and political systems—from imported construction materials and sidelined local architects to leaking domes that only foreign maintenance crews can repair.Together, we explore:How parliament buildings shape political culture and urban identityWhat gets lost when foreign actors design local democratic spacesWhy procurement and infrastructure are never politically neutralThe tension between modernity, symbolism, and local belongingWhat ordinary citizens, planners, and parliament staff really think about these projectsThis episode explores how infrastructure is never just infrastructure. Parliament buildings are not only physical spaces — they shape governance, political culture, procurement systems, and the everyday experience of cities. By examining who builds these spaces and whose visions are embedded within them, the conversation raises deeper questions about sovereignty, urban identity, and development in African cities.Dr. Batsani-Ncube's book, China and African Parliaments, is available now via Oxford University Press. Guest: Dr. Innocent (Ib) Batsani-NcubeAcknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

We often think of innovation as something inherently good — new technologies, sleek apps, disruptive ideas, and economic growth.But who actually benefits from innovation? And what gets erased in the process?In this episode, Alexandra speaks with Dr. Pierce Otlhogile-Gordon, a knowledge architect and social change educator based in Botswana, about the relationship between innovation, development, land, power, and cultural knowledge systems.Together, they unpack Botswana’s efforts to build an innovation economy beyond diamonds, while exploring larger questions around colonialism, intellectual property, indigenous knowledge systems, youth unemployment, and the politics of global development.  Dr. Pierce shares how land, policy, history, and local knowledge shape what innovation can — and cannot — achieve; how national ambition meets lived reality; and what other countries, regions, and cities can learn from Botswana’s approach.Together, we explore:How innovation is shaped by policy, history, and placeThe opportunities and constraints facing emerging entrepreneursWhy innovation is never truly neutralThe relationship between indigenous knowledge and intellectual propertyThe tension between national development goals and everyday realitiesGuest: Dr. Pierce Edward Cornelius Otlhogile-GordonAcknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How will water scarcity shape the future of cities, migration, and global stability?From climate change to migration, the African water crisis is deeply connected to global challenges — and global solutions. In the final episode of this series, we explore why water scarcity is not just a regional issue, but a global one. We unpack the legacy of extractive systems, the role of youth and local leadership, and the urgency of declaring not just a climate emergency, but a water emergency. Through the lens of the TransAfrica Pipeline, we ask: what does global responsibility look like in a time of water crisis — and what can we do to build a more secure, just, and caring future?Guest: Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila VermaSeries: How the Trans Africa Pipeline (TAP) Can Solve the Sahel Region’s Water CrisisWhat if water infrastructure could do more than deliver clean drinking water — what if it could transform economies, support food security, reduce climate migration, and unite communities across borders?In this 3-part series, Urban Limitrophe explores the story of the TransAfrica Pipeline (TAP) — a visionary project to bring clean, desalinated water across the Sahel through a 7,000-kilometre pipeline powered by renewable energy. Through conversations with co-founders Dr. Rod Tennyson and Dr. Romila Verma, we unpack how water connects to everything: agriculture, innovation, migration, environmental justice, and community resilience.Acknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

Why do some water systems work— and others fail?Successful water infrastructure isn’t just about engineering. There’s a hidden social side — shaped by governance, culture, and power — that often determines whether systems actually work, or get built at all.In this second episode, beyond the technical side of infrastructure to explore the social, ethical, and ecological dimensions of water access. Dr. Verma introduces her Four Pillars of Water Sustainability — science, governance, economics, and cultural connection — and we explore how these ideas can reshape how cities, towns, and regions manage water today. From sponge cities to sacred rivers, we discuss why collaboration and care are at the heart of any truly sustainable water system.Guest: Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila VermaSeries: How the Trans Africa Pipeline (TAP) Can Solve the Sahel Region’s Water CrisisWhat if water infrastructure could do more than deliver clean drinking water — what if it could transform economies, support food security, reduce climate migration, and unite communities across borders?In this 3-part series, Urban Limitrophe explores the story of the TransAfrica Pipeline (TAP) — a visionary project to bring clean, desalinated water across the Sahel through a 7,000-kilometre pipeline powered by renewable energy. Through conversations with co-founders Dr. Rod Tennyson and Dr. Romila Verma, we unpack how water connects to everything: agriculture, innovation, migration, environmental justice, and community resilience.Acknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

What if water infrastructure could do more than deliver clean drinking water — what if it could transform economies, support food security, reduce climate migration, and unite communities across borders?In this 3-part series, Urban Limitrophe explores the story of the TransAfrica Pipeline (TAP) — a visionary project to bring clean, desalinated water across the Sahel through a 7,000-kilometre pipeline powered by renewable energy. Through conversations with co-founders Dr. Rod Tennyson and Dr. Romila Verma, we unpack how water connects to everything: agriculture, innovation, migration, environmental justice, and community resilience.TAP is more than a pipeline — it’s a call to imagine water systems built with care, innovation, and the future in mind.Guest: Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila VermaEpisode 1: How to Build a Continent-Sized Water SystemHow do you build a continent-sized water system?In this episode, we explore what it takes to design a 7,000-kilometre pipeline to bring clean water across one of the driest regions in the world. Co-founders Dr. Rod Tennyson and Dr. Romila Verma share the origin story of the TransAfrica Pipeline (TAP) — a visionary infrastructure project that combines solar-powered desalination, salt recovery, and lightweight materials to deliver sustainable water access across the Sahel. From technical design to big-picture ambition, we dive into how TAP was engineered — and how it could change lives on a continental scale.Acknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

What does it mean to rebuild with dignity after disaster strikes?In this episode of Urban Limitrophe, we speak with architect Omar Degan, founder of DO Architecture and the Fragility Lab. Together, they explore how architecture can be a tool for healing, not just shelter — and how co-designing with communities leads to more just, resilient spaces in the aftermath of crisis.Omar shares his journey designing in fragile contexts — from post-conflict housing in Somalia to consulting for the UN — and how his work challenges traditional top-down models of humanitarian aid. Instead of quick fixes, his approach centers culture, collaboration, and care.You’ll learn how DO Architecture uses emergency design to center communities in fragile contexts, and why beauty, dignity, and belonging should never be seen as luxuries — even in disaster recovery.Whether you're a planner, designer, changemaker, or curious listener, this conversation invites you to rethink how we rebuild, who we build for, and what’s possible when communities lead the way.Guest: Omar DeganAcknowledgements:This episode is co-supported by the Nurubian, the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access our newsletter visit: https://tinyurl.com/ULNewsletterPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

What do you build when the systems around you fall short?In Season 2 of Urban Limitrophe, we travel across continents, through cities, and into communities — from the innovation hubs of Botswana to the rural coastlines of Nova Scotia, the medinas of Tunisia to the farmlands of Togo, from Athens to Abidjan.This season is about community, imagination, innovation, and the power of everyday people to shape the places they call home — in housing, culture, cycling, climate, and beyond.We’ll hear from architects, artists, activists, and storytellers who are transforming how cities are designed, governed, remembered, and lived in — one idea, one connection, one act of care at a time.Subscribe now. New episodes every month.

The built environment is a reflection of political decisions. The officials you elect shape the environment around you. So, what happens if people don’t participate in the voting process?In this episode, we delve into the critical intersection of civic action and urban development with our insightful guest, Dafe Oputu. We’ll explore the urban landscapes of Accra, Ghana; Cotonou, Benin; and Lagos, Nigeria, examining how trust and accountability in municipal governance shape these cities. We’ll discuss different cities' strategies to encourage public participation and civic action, and why voting is crucial for building better cities. Together we also unpack Africa's obsession with megacities, like Akon City and Eko Atlantic (and how to avoid creating ghost cities).Guest: Dafe OputuAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

What makes a city truly smart? Or just? The answer lies with the people.In this episode, we explore the human-centric side of Smart Cities with our guest Titus Kaloki from the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Kenya office. Through their Just Cities Project, Titus is on a mission to make cities both smart and just, leveraging technology to put people at the center of urban planning.Titus and his team have been leveraging an innovative software called Urban Collective Design Environment (U_CODE) to achieve an 85% participation rate in their Just Cities Project in Nakuru City, Kenya. This process brings together local government, urban planners, and citizens to co-design the future of the city using 3D modelling software.Join us as we delve into how this approach results in community-informed plans that conform to urban guidelines and zoning while saving time, money, and reducing frustration for all parties involved.Guest: Titus KalokiAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes, references, and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophePlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

What if the true architects of our cities are not the government officials or urban planners, but the communities who live in them? In this episode, we dive deep into a provocative question: When governments fail to provide essential services like water and electricity, and communities step up to fill the gaps, who define the future of urban development?We journey to Brazil to unravel the story of the 2001 City Statute, a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at making cities more equitable. This innovative law, born from decades of activism and aimed at redistributing urban resources, has struggled with implementation challenges. My special guest, Mayara Almeida de Paula, a PhD candidate at the University of Toronto and an expert in urban planning, will share her insights on how race, gender, and urban policies impact the lives of Black women in Brazil and how these factors either support or restrict their right to the city.Guest: Mayara Almeida de PaulaAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music and editing by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, we're headed to Tangier, Morocco. My co-host Naziha Nasrin and I speak with Amine Houari of Think Tanger, a non-profit cultural agency shaping Tangier's development through art, research, and collaboration. Together, we discuss crucial topics such as creative insurgency, planning in suburban contexts in Toronto (Scarborough) and Tangier (Bir Chifa), multicultural approaches to community development, and insights for other cultural planning organizations. Additionally, we offer advice for Western cities planning for diverse cultural contexts.Key insights from the episode include:Planning in multicultural cities and suburbs The importance of people-centred practices to urban/suburban developmentThink Tanger's StudioCity program and how it promotes dialogue, arts, city-building, and neighbourhood pride in TangierThe foundational elements of Think Tanger's approach to fostering a more inclusive and engaged communityExploring the colonial history of Tangier and its impact on the city's culture and built environmentHow Think Tanger uses publications like their magazine MAKAN and their store KIOSK alongside residency programs to support the decolonization of arts and culture in the cityCrafting inclusive approaches that resonate with the unique cultural and historical context of a cityStrengthening cultural programming and development through strategic collaborations and financial supportInclusive approaches to cultural planningGuest: Amine Houari of Think TangerCo-Hosts: Naziha Nasrin of plazaPOPSAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music and editing by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

Join me, along with my co-hosts Joycelyn and Erin, as we dive into an insightful conversation with Lanrick Bennett Jr., Toronto's Bicycle Mayor, and the Executive Director of Charlie's FreeWheels. We explore his tenure as a bike mayor and the expansive network of BYCS-appointed mayors, stretching from India to Uganda and beyond.In this episode, we discuss crucial topics such as Vision Zero and efforts to reduce vehicular-related fatalities in Toronto. We delve into designing inclusive cycling infrastructure and offer advice for those looking to cycle in the city and who want to get involved in making their streets safer for all.Key insights from the episode include:Understanding the significance of inclusive cycling infrastructureExploring how Shaw St has evolved into Toronto's cycling havenThe importance of political will in creating safer streetsWays to actively contribute to advocating for safer streets in your communityInsights from international transit advocates on Toronto's cycling infrastructureWhat it takes to ensure safer streets for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alikeThe global network of Bicycle Mayors and their impact on urban developmentAnd much moreGuest: Lanrick Bennett Jr., Bicycle Mayor of Toronto & Executive Director of Charlie’s FreeWheelsCo-Hosts: Joycelyn Guan and ErinAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

This episode marks the first video episode of the podcast! Here's a sneak peek of my conversation with Destinie Adélakun, an emerging multi-disciplinary artist, who masterfully weaves her Nigerian-Indian heritage into her breathtaking solo exhibition, "Journey of Adé." Destinie also shares the excitement of exhibiting at Toronto's renowned Nuit Blanche, her work bridging mental wellness and public art as part of the Scarborough-based Behind the Art Collective, and the crucial role that public art plays in shaping the identity of our cities. This is just a snippet of our conversation. To watch our full discussion head on over to the new Urban Limitrophe YouTube channel to see all of the art pieces that Destinie refers to in the episode.Guest: Destinie Adélakun, Behind the Art CollectiveAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities, the Department of Geography and Planning, and GlowReelAbout Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Join me in this captivating episode of the podcast as I have an insightful conversation with Heba Elhanafy, an urban researcher from the Charter Cities Institute (CCI) Zambia. Together, we explore the fascinating world of charter city development and dive deep into the Planning Guidelines Report titled "Guided Organic Growth: An urban planning framework for charter cities." In this episode, you'll learn about:What are charter cities and why promoting good governance is at the heart of making them workThe benefits of taking an incremental approach to infrastructure development for more affordability and efficiency The importance of adapting urban policies and plans to the evolving needs of citizensAnd much more!Guest: Heba Elhanafy, Charter Cities Institute (CCI) ZambiaWebsite: www.chartercitiesinstitute.orgTwitter: @hebaelhanafiInstagram: @hebaelhanafyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heba-elhanafy-918691a0Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music and editing by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, I chat with Angela Oduor Lungati, the CEO of Ushahidi. Ushahdi is a mobile platform dubbed “Africa’s Gift to Silicon Valley” by the New York Times. Born out of a crisis, the open-source software enables virtually anyone with a cellphone or internet connection to efficiently crowd-source information, map it and share it with those the most in need and guide those who can provide aid. Ushahidi is a powerful planning and decision-making tool for communities and cities in the midst of an emergency and has been used by groups worldwide to track everything from COVID-19 recovery to police brutality and everything in between. In this episode, you'll learn about:how Ushahidi has been leveraged by communities and governments worldwide, how to keep communities at the center of innovation, and much more!Guest: Angela Oduor Lungati, CEO of UshahidiWebsite: www.ushahidi.comTwitter: @AngieNicoleOD | @UshahidiInstagram: @UshahidiDonate: give.ushahidi.comAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music and editing by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

En novembre 2021, j'ai eu le plaisir de parler avec M. Patrick Mudekereza le Directeur Exécutif du Centre d'Art Waza. Le Centre d'Art Waza, situé à Lubumbashi, en République démocratique du Congo une ville désignée en 2015 par l'UNESCO, comme étant la Ville créative d'artisanat et des arts populaires. Ainsi, pendant notre discussion nous parlons par rapport de la créativité des Lushois, du rôle de l'art public dans la ville, les projets divers dirigés par le Centre et ce qui fait de Lubumbashi une Ville Créative.Dans cet épisode, vous découvrirez:pourquoi l’art public est si important pour les villes et les communautés qui les accueillent,l'histoire de la ville de Lubumbashi d'un perspective artistique,qu’est-ce qui fait de Lubumbashi une ville aussi créative,et bien plus encore! Invité: Patrick MudekerezaWebsite: www.centredartwaza.orgTwitter: @centredartwazaInstagram: @centredartwazaRemerciements:Cet épisode est co-parrainé par l'Université de Toronto School of Cities et le Département de Geographie et de l'Aménagement Urban Limitrophe:Veuillez visitez www.urbanlimitrophe.com pour toutes les notes et références de l’émission et les détails sur les invités.Instagram: @urbanlimitrophepodcast Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Contact: hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Assistance: Monteur et producteur de musique: Imany LambropoulosAnimatrice de podcast et graphiste: Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, my co-host Sami Ferwati and I chat with Salma Elbasty from CLUSTER (Cairo Lab for Urban Studies, Training and Environmental Research). CLUSTER undertakes a number of research, architecture, and arts-based urban initiatives with a special focus on analyzing urban informality and highlighting its role in our cities. During our discussion, we explore the impact of two of CLUSTER's major projects—the CAUL (Critical Arab Urban Lexicon) and their Creativity in Action toolkit—and how through their diverse programming they work with artists, artisans, academics, businesses, communities, and everyone else in between to bring their projects to life.In this episode, you'll learn about:urban informality and its role in creative cities,the process CLUSTER follows to undertake their various creative, community-based activities,the Critical Arab Urban Lexicon (CAUL) and the importance of translating urban terms into different languages, ALFABRIKA, CLUSTER's maker space and community hub,and much more!Guest: Salma Elbasty, CLUSTERWebsite: www.clustercairo.orgTwitter: @clustercairoInstagram: @clustercairoCo-Host: Sami FerwatiAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, my co-host Jane O'Brien Davis and I chat with Marion Anvango at Book Bunk. Book Bunk is "working to restore some of Nairobi's most iconic public libraries into sites of heritage, public art, collective memory, knowledge production, shared experiences, cultural leadership and information exchange." During our discussion, we explore their diverse series of programming that they offer in their public library branches. We also chat about Book Bunk's approach to restoring libraries to make them more inclusive and accessible and cultivate a sense of belonging for the local community. In this episode, you'll learn about:how they involve the community in the restoration of public libraries,their experiential, digital, architectural, and social approach to restoring public libraries,their efforts to make library services more accessible for those living with disabilities,why public libraries are so important for cities to have,and much more!Guest: Marion Anvango, Book BunkWebsite: https://www.bookbunk.org/Twitter: @thebookbunkInstagram: @thebookbunkCo-Host: Jane O’Brien DavisTwitter/Instagram: @janeobdLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/jane-o-brien-davis-772211197/Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, I chat with Adwoa Afful, the founder of Black Futures Now Toronto (BFN TO). BFN TO is collective that uses a mixture of storytelling, radical mapping, and a whole lot of creative talent, to develop a number of interactive ways of archiving, experiencing, and celebrating overlooked Black histories and geographies. During our talk, we explore their innovative Mapping Black Futures (MBF) story mapping project, and how in collaboration with Black nonbinary youth and women from across the Greater Toronto Area, they built a virtual community centre that highlights Black histories and placemaking. In this episode, you'll learn about:why it's important to map Black histories and Black geographies,what is counter/radical mapping and how it can be used as a tool for community building,how Black Futures Now Toronto developed their virtual community centre,the youth responsible for creating the content for the Mapping Black Futures project,and much more!Guest: Adwoa Afful, Black Futures Now TorontoWebsite: www.blackfuturesnow.to/Twitter: @BlackFuturesNowInstagram: @bfntorontobfntoronto[at]gmail.com Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosEditing by Hannah AhamediPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, I speak with Tatu Gatere, the co-founder and CEO of Buildher. Buildher is a non-profit based in Nairobi Kenya that is on a mission to promote gender equality within the construction industry through the provision of accredited construction, artisanry, and manufacturing skills to women that participate in their training program. Through their holistic approach to skills training and workforce development, Buildher is working hard to knock down biases and close the gender gap in the construction industry in Kenya and beyond.In this episode, you'll learn about:Buildher's holistic approach to training women in the construction and artisanry,why it's important for women to be involved in the construction/urban infrastructure sector, recommendations for integrating more women into the construction sector,the exciting projects (i.e. their new product line) that Buildher has in store,their upcoming podcast's and programming's focus on youth employability in Kenya,and much more!Guest: Tatu Gatere, CEO and Co-Founder of BuildherWebsite: https://www.buildher.org/Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram: @urbanlimitrophepodcastTwitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosEditing by Hannah AhamediPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

In this episode, my co-host Hannah Ahamedi and I chatted with Milly Kakungulu, the Education Department Lead at Justice Defenders Uganda. Through our discussion, we learned more about how the Justice Defenders (formerly known as the African Prisons Project) are defending the defenceless by educating prisoners on how to provide legal services for themselves and others. In this episode, you'll learn about:the importance of a people-centred approach to justice,the different challenges that prisoners face with getting access to justice in the current legal system,  the Justice Defenders model (education, training, practice) and the various opportunities that Justice Defenders provides participants,how prisoners have leveraged the education Justice Defenders' has provided them to transform their own lives and influence policies that improve justice within their communities at various government levels,the Reach Alliance (@reachallianceto ) and how our research project inspired Hannah and I to create this episode,and much more!Guest: Milly Kakungulu, Education Department Lead at Justice DefendersWebsite: https://www.justice-defenders.org/Co-Host: Hannah AhamediAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosEditing by Hannah AhamediPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos.

In this episode, I chat again with Roxana Escobar Ñañez. Roxana is pursuing her Ph.D. in Human Geography at the University of Toronto and she was recently one of five special guests on the 12th episode of the podcast. Given her unique research interests, after our last conversation, I decided to invite her to the show again to dive deeper into her work examining 'the places Afro-Peruvian women hold in Lima’s sonic landscapes' and Black womanhood in Latin America and to get a better understanding about how these themes of music, Blackness, and cities emerge in the diaspora. What started off as a discussion of her research turned into a vivid exploration of Lima's history through the lens of Afro-Peruvian music, food, culture, and most importantly Black joy and resilience. In this episode, you'll learn about:the project of mestizaje and the origins of criollo music and culture in Peru,what are sonic landscapes and how Afro-Peruvian women, in particular, are essential to shaping Lima's vibrant soundscape and unique cultural identity,the key characteristics of Afro-Peruvian music, additional resources and artists to help you learn more about Afro-Peruvian culture and its impact in Peru,the importance of highlighting Black joy when researching Black histories and geographies,and much more!Guest: Roxana Escobar ÑañezTwitter: @RoxanaEscobarNInstagram: @Roxanaescobar14Email: roxana.escobar[at]mail.utoronto.caAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

This special episode of Urban Limitrophe is brought to you in collaboration with the Graduate Geography & Planning Student Society (GGAPSS) in celebration of Black History/Black Futures Month!In this episode, I speak with Roxana Escobar Ñañez (PhD Human Geography), Brianna Lane (MSc Physical Geography), Priscilla Ankomah-Hackman (MSc Planning), Jane O'Brien Davis (MSc Planning), and Bola Oshinusi (PhD Planning) to explore why they got interested in geography and planning, and their advice for other aspiring geographers and planners looking to study in this field.In this episode, you'll learn about each guests':research interests and upcoming projects,reasons for studying at the University of Toronto,hopes for having more diversity in their respective field,advice for other emerging geographers and planners,and much more!Collaborator: Graduate Geography & Planning Student Society (GGAPSS) Twitter: @GGAPSS_UTInstagram: @ggapssWebsite: ggapss.wordpress.com/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ggapss/about/Guests (visit the podcast website for contact details):Roxana Escobar Ñañez (PhD Human Geography)Brianna Lane (MSc Physical Geography)Priscilla Ankomah-Hackman (MSc Planning)Jane O'Brien Davis (MSc Planning)Bola Oshinusi (PhD Planning)Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

In this episode, I speak with Abigail Moriah, a registered urban planner and founder of the Black Planning Project. Through this initiative, Abigail and her team, collect and share the stories of Black urban planning professionals and students to highlight their important work and encourage more diverse voices to enter the profession. Most importantly, through its various mentorship opportunities and research endeavours, the Black Planning Project builds the relationships and community ties necessary to ensure that urban planning and hopefully the city-building sector makes room for new perspectives and ideas.In this episode, you'll learn:why it is essential to encourage spaces where urban planners can discuss racial injustices in planning,about some of the experiences and injustices that Black planners face in their profession,about resources and advice for emerging urban planners of colour to help them navigate the field,the importance of including diverse voices in the urban planning profession,and much more!Guest: Abigail Moriah, The Black Planning Project / BPUA / MIIPOCFacebook: facebook.com/BlackPlanningProjectTwitter: @planning_blackInstagram: @blackplanningprojectWebsite: www.blackplanningproject.com/Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. The School of Cities "convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just". To learn more about the School of Cities visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca. To learn more about the Department of Geography and Planning and the different undergraduate and graduate programs available please visit www.geography.utoronto.ca.About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Editing by Hannah AhamediMusic by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

In this episode, I speak with Carolina Larrazábal, the co-founder and design director at BuildX Studio. BuildX Studio is an innovative award-winning architectural studio based in Nairobi, which is the first architecture, engineering or construction company in Africa to become B Corp™ certified. The team at BuildX Studio is on a mission to build radically better buildings, and back in July 2021 I got to speak with Carolina to learn more about how her team is building dignified circular affordable housing in Kenya and how through their relationships and partnerships with other organizations such as their sister branch BuildHer, their work focuses on embedding equity, diversity and sustainability in every stage of the development process.In this episode, you'll learn about:what is dignified affordable housing and what considerations go into creating it,Mass timber/Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and why BuildX thinks that it is the future of building materials in this region and beyond,BuildX's Circular Cooperative Affordable Housing Project,their efforts to build 10,000 affordable homes by 2030,how they hope that their affordable homes will provide a pathway to homeownership for low-income sectors of the population,and much more!Guest: Carolina LarrazábalInstagram: @buildxstudioTwitter: @buildxstudio Youtube: BuildX StudioWebsite: www.buildxstudio.comAcknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. The School of Cities "convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just". To learn more about the School of Cities visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca. To learn more about the Department of Geography and Planning and the different undergraduate and graduate programs available please visit www.geography.utoronto.ca.About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, develepment, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

In this episode, I speak with Paul Ninson, a photographer, and filmmaker about the importance of visual storytelling and how after collecting over 30,000 books on photography and film, he is in the beginning stages of building The Dikan Center. The center will be the first visual storytelling library in Ghana. The Dikan Center will train not only the next generation of storytellers but build a community hub that welcomes locals and newcomers alike to learn about, celebrate, and create African stories and flip the dominant, negative narrative about life on the continent.  In this episode, you'll learn about:Paul's vision for the center and the programming it will provide,the upcoming photography exhibition,how he collected over 30,000 books to start the Dikan Center,how the center will be an incubator for talent as well as community,opportunities to get involved with getting the center built and learning/teaching about visual storytelling,and much more!Guest: Paul NinsonFacebook: facebook.com/dikancenterTwitter: @dikancenterInstagram: @dikancenterWebsite: https://www.dikancenter.org/Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. The School of Cities "convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just". To learn more about the School of Cities visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca. To learn more about the Department of Geography and Planning and the different undergraduate and graduate programs available please visit www.geography.utoronto.ca.About Urban Limitrophe:Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Melanie Samson, about the important role that waste reclaimers play in our cities, particularly in Johannesburg. Melanie works closely with the African Reclaimers Organization (ARO), a non-profit group that is fighting to get waste reclaimers the rights and recognition they deserve for their hard work and ensuring that their knowledge and perspectives are incorporated in the broader waste management system. In this episode, you'll learn about:why in some cities there can be no recycling without waste reclaimers,the precarious conditions and inequality waste reclaimers face when doing their work,the great strides that the African Reclaimers Organization (ARO) has made to get reclaimers the recognition they deserve,why reclaimers are much more effective and efficient at collecting waste than private companies,the steps people can take to support waste reclaimers work in their community,and much more!Guest: Dr. Melanie Samson Melanie's Email: melanies[at]uj.ac.za ARO’s Facebook: facebook.com/africanreclaimersARO’s Twitter: @africanreclaimARO's Instagram: @africanreclaimersARO’s Website: https://www.africanreclaimers.org/This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning. “The School of Cities convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just.” To learn more about their work visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca.More Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram & Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.

In this episode, I speak with Liz Gomis, about the inspiration and process of developing OFF TO Magazine. OFF TO Magazine is a bilingual, biannual magazine available online and through print, that explores African Cities through the eyes of local citizens. Each issue centers around one African city and uses the experience of local journalists, writers, artists, architects, urban planners, historians, and more, to dispel some myths about the city and share why it is a region worth heading off to.In this episode, you'll learn about:how OFF TO Magazine lets the local citizens of each featured city guide the content of each issue,common misconceptions about Africa and how they negatively shape the rest of the world's understanding of its various cities, regions and people,why there needs to be a more holistic representation of African cities in popular media, how the magazine connects Africans across the diaspora, and much more!Guest: Liz GomisInstagram: @offtomag | @mizlizFacebook: facebook.com/offtomagTwitter: @offtomagWebsite: www.offtomag.comThis episode is sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and co-supported by the Department of Geography and Planning. “The School of Cities convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just.” To learn more about their work visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca.This episode is also sponsored by Glowreel. Glowreel is a weekly newsletter, curated by women of colour and delivered straight to inboxes every Monday. Glowreel is here to highlight the stories and achievements of BIPOC women. The aim is to empower and inspire BIPOC women to celebrate their wins, discuss important issues impacting BIPOC women, and to encourage anyone who identifies as a BIPOC woman to blaze their own trail! To subscribe to the newsletter or submit a story please visit www.glowreel.coMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram/Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.

In this episode, I discuss urban play spaces and child-friendly cities with Amowi Phillips from the Mmofra Foundation. The Mmofra Foundations is a non-profit based out of Accra, Ghana that transforms urban spaces and urban green spaces into creative labs where children and youth can play and learn while being exposed to art, culture, and nature. In this episode, you'll learn about:how the organization uses creative placemaking and urban design to transform their Mmofra Place Park into an outdoor play and learning lab,the highlights and challenges of implementing play spaces in Accra's marketplaces,what a child-friendly/youth-friendly space looks, how the Mmofra Foundation is collaborating with other play experts across the continent to develop an Africa Play Network, and much more!Guest: Amowi Phillips Website: mmofraghana.orgInstagram: @mmofrafoundationFacebook: facebook.com/mmofra.foundationTwitter: @mmofra_ghanaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mmofra-foundation/This episode is sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities. “The School of Cities convenes urban-focused researchers, educators, students, practitioners and the general public to explore and address complex urban challenges, with the aim of making cities and urban regions more sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and just.” To learn more about their work visit www.schoolofcities.utoronto.ca.More Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos.Music by Imany LambropoulosPlease address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.

In this episode, I discuss recycling and the importance of creating sustainable energy alternatives with Naomi Fagla Medegan, the founder of Gbobètô. Gbobètô is a non-profit based out of Porto-Novo, Benin that sees waste as a tool for social and sustainable development and through their various recycling programs works to make cities cleaner and communities empowered.In this episode, you'll learn about:how biomass briquettes can be a source of sustainable and affordable energy in areas with poor electricity accesswaste reclaimers and the work they do to keep cities cleanthe trials, tribulations and triumphs of getting recycling infrastructure up and running in a cityand much more!Guest: Naomi Fagla MedeganWebsite: https://gbobeto.org/Instagram: @gbobetoFacebook: @gbobetoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gbobetoasso/Music by Imany LambropoulosMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.

In this episode, I discuss a bit about community climate change adaptation and the importance of incorporating the youth voice in decision-making with Daniel Onyango, the founder of The Hope Raisers Initiative. The Hope Raisers Initiative uses arts, culture, and sports to amplify the youth voice in the neighbourhood of Korogocho in Nairobi, Kenya. Through the organization, community members get opportunities to creatively transform public spaces in their neighbourhood whether that is through music, murals, or matatus (i.e. buses).In this episode, you'll learn about:How their Future Yetu program is breaking down barriers between the public and public policymakersHow digital storytelling can be an important tool in addressing climate changeHow Hope Raisers leveraged local transportation to gather community insightsWhy Daniel thinks integrating youth in city-building and climate adaptation initiatives is importantand much more!Guest: Daniel OnyangoWebsite: https://www.hoperaisersinitiative.com/Instagram: @hoperaisersTwitter: @raisershopeMusic by Imany LambropoulosMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.

In this episode, I discuss a bit about the role of the cultural appropriateness of food in tackling food insecurity and chat with Chef Rachel Adjei, the founder of The Abibiman Project. The Abibiman Project is an initiative started by Rachel in October 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, that uses African cuisine and ingredients to help promote social justice and reduce food insecurity in Toronto's black community.  In this episode, we’ll touch on:How The Abibiman Project got started and has grownFood security and its impact on newcomersThe role of cultural appropriateness of food in food justiceHow Rachel uses food to build communityand much more!Guest: Rachel AdjeiWebsite: http://www.theabibimanproject.comInstagram: @theabibimanproject | @raeadjeiMusic by Imany LambropoulosMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com. 

In this episode, I discuss the importance of public libraries in cities with Professor Lia Frederiksen. I also chat with Grant McNulty of McNulty Consulting the team behind iAfrika, a mobile-friendly platform that works with local libraries to help their communities create and distribute African language content. In this episode, you'll learn about:the roles public libraries play in citiesthe digital language dividewhat the future of public libraries across Africa looks likeand much more!Guest: Grant McNultyMcNulty Consulting Website: https://www.mcnulty.co.za/iAfrika Website: https://iafrika.org/Expert: Lia FrederiksenWebsite: http://www.liafrederiksen.org/Music by Imany LambropoulosMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophe Podcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com. 

In this episode, I discuss a bit about the role of skateboarding and skateparks in city building. I chat with Sandy Alibo, the founder of Surf Ghana, a non-profit based in Accra, Ghana that transforms its communities by bringing youth together using the power of skateboarding and surfing. In this episode, you'll learn about:Surf Ghana's Freedom Skate Park and highly anticipated Daily Paper capsule wardrobe Surf Ghana's Skate Gal Club,what a skate-friendly Accra looks like to Sandyand much more!Guest: Sandy Alibo Website: www.surfghana.orgInstagram: @surfghanaMusic by Imany LambropoulosMore Urban Limitrophe:Episode show notes and references: www.urbanlimitrophe.comInstagram: @urbanlimitrophePodcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com. 

Urban Limitrophe is a podcast exploring the various initiatives happening in cities across the African continent to creatively solve problems, support their communities, create vibrant urban spaces, and build better cities overall. Tune in to catch interviews with various guests doing great work to change the future of their cities and get inspired to start something new in yours. Coming soon!Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept and development by Alexandra Lambropoulos. Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com.