Urban Limitrophe is a podcast exploring the various initiatives happening in cities across the African continent (and diaspora) to creatively solve problems, support their communities, create vibrant urban spaces, and build better cities overall. Ideas from the continent are often overlooked. This podcast seeks to bring to light the intersecting ideas and practices from urban planning, architecture, economics, arts and culture, geography, and politics that define our urban living, and uncover how to build resilient communities, economies, and ecologies. Tune in to catch interviews with urban planners, designers, researchers, community-builders, creatives and more, doing great work to change the future of their cities and find out how you support them to make a difference in their communities and get inspired to take action in yours.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/15/15/faa0266e-35aa-4995-b0dc-534e3318d0ac_limitrophe_my_african_aesthetic__june_13_2026_.mp3

What does it mean to design from an African perspective? And how do questions of identity, belonging, and culture shape the spaces we create?In this episode, I speak with Eunice Nanzala Schumacher, architect and founder of My African Aesthetic, about how her experiences living between Uganda and Norway inspired a deeper exploration of African aesthetics, design philosophy, and placemaking. Through conversations with architects, artists, designers, and community-builders from across Africa and its diasporas, Eunice and her team have been documenting the ideas, histories, and practices that shape how people create meaningful places and communities.Together, we explore:<ul><li>African aesthetics, design philosophy, and placemaking</li><li>Identity, diaspora, and the meaning of home</li><li>Why documenting African knowledge systems matters</li><li>Professor Mugendi&#39;s concept of &#34;Africa with a K&#34;</li><li>The search for an African placemaking toolbox</li></ul>Ultimately, this conversation explores what happens when different worlds meet. As ideas, identities, and cultural traditions move across borders, they reshape how we understand home, belonging, and place. It is a reminder that home is not always somewhere we return to—it is something we continually create.Guest: Eunice Nanzala SchumacherAcknowledgements: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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please 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 design from an African perspective? And how do questions of identity, belonging, and culture shape the spaces we create?

In this episode, I speak with Eunice Nanzala Schumacher, architect and founder of My African Aesthetic, about how her experiences living between Uganda and Norway inspired a deeper exploration of African aesthetics, design philosophy, and placemaking. Through conversations with architects, artists, designers, and community-builders from across Africa and its diasporas, Eunice and her team have been documenting the ideas, histories, and practices that shape how people create meaningful places and communities.

Together, we explore:
- African aesthetics, design philosophy, and placemaking
- Identity, diaspora, and the meaning of home
- Why documenting African knowledge systems matters
- Professor Mugendi&#39;s concept of &#34;Africa with a K&#34;
- The search for an African placemaking toolbox

Ultimately, this conversation explores what happens when different worlds meet. As ideas, identities, and cultural traditions move across borders, they reshape how we understand home, belonging, and place. It is a reminder that home is not always somewhere we return to—it is something we continually create.

Guest: Eunice Nanzala Schumacher

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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos


How My African Aesthetic Is Reimagining Design and Placemaking Across Borders | Eunice Nanzala Schumacher

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/21/4/1a02b9e1-d8b2-4e98-ac05-d9f4382011d4_.ib_interview_-_urban_limitrophe__may_20_2026_.mp3

A gift isn&#39;t always free. But when a foreign government offers to build your parliament—for free—it&#39;s easy to miss where the real cost lands.In this episode, Dr. Innocent (Ib) Batsani-Ncube discusses China&#39;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:<ul><li>How parliament buildings shape political culture and urban identity</li><li>What gets lost when foreign actors design local democratic spaces</li><li>Why procurement and infrastructure are never politically neutral</li><li>The tension between modernity, symbolism, and local belonging</li><li>What ordinary citizens, planners, and parliament staff really think about these projects</li></ul>This 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&#39;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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

A gift isn&#39;t always free. But when a foreign government offers to build your parliament—for free—it&#39;s easy to miss where the real cost lands.

In this episode, Dr. Innocent (Ib) Batsani-Ncube discusses China&#39;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 identity
- What gets lost when foreign actors design local democratic spaces
- Why procurement and infrastructure are never politically neutral
- The tension between modernity, symbolism, and local belonging
- What ordinary citizens, planners, and parliament staff really think about these projects

This 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&#39;s book, China and African Parliaments, is available now via Oxford University Press. 

Guest: Dr. Innocent (Ib) Batsani-Ncube

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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How a Free Building Can Cost Everything: China, Africa, and Gifting Parliaments | Dr. Innocent Batsani-Ncube

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/2/20/13/3cbbb9f6-2677-45e6-8da0-41fd7c4effc8_dr._pierce_interview_-_urban_limitrophe.mp3

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:<ul><li>How innovation is shaped by policy, history, and place</li><li>The opportunities and constraints facing emerging entrepreneurs</li><li>Why innovation is never truly neutral</li><li>The relationship between indigenous knowledge and intellectual property</li><li>The tension between national development goals and everyday realities</li></ul> Guest: 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please 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 place
- The opportunities and constraints facing emerging entrepreneurs
- Why innovation is never truly neutral
- The relationship between indigenous knowledge and intellectual property
- The tension between national development goals and everyday realities

Guest: Dr. Pierce Edward Cornelius Otlhogile-Gordon 

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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How to Build a Better Innovation Ecosystem: Lessons from Botswana | Dr. Pierce Otlhogile-Gordon

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/1/19/1/4b330fe9-d50b-42ee-960e-a03900739806_ep._3_tap_episode_-_regular__3_part_.mp3

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 &amp; 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com/" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please 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 &amp; Dr. Romila Verma

Series: How the Trans Africa Pipeline (TAP) Can Solve the Sahel Region’s Water Crisis

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.

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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

Trans Africa Pipeline (Pt. 3): Why Africa’s Water Crisis Matters Everywhere and What We Can Do About It  | Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila Verma

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/1/18/22/54090f7a-be33-4358-b192-4d2f7a1bb537_ep_2._tap_episode_-___3_part__-_regular.mp3

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 &amp; 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com/" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please 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 &amp; Dr. Romila Verma

Series: How the Trans Africa Pipeline (TAP) Can Solve the Sahel Region’s Water Crisis

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.

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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

Trans Africa Pipeline (Pt. 2): How Water Infrastructure Shapes Our Lives | Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila Verma

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/9/1/3/bc526e6a-3c57-459a-a2dd-42ac9b642f25_ep_1._tap_episode_-_regular__3_part_.mp3

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 &amp; 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please 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 &amp; Dr. Romila Verma

Episode 1: The Pipeline That Could Transform a Continent

How 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/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

Trans Africa Pipeline (Pt. 1): How to Build a Continent-Sized Water System | Dr. Rod Tennyson & Dr. Romila Verma

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/7/7/5/29f721b7-38fd-422c-8e1d-047bc3088ef5_omar_episode_-_urban_limitrophe.mp3

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&#39;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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access our newsletter visit: <a href="https://tinyurl.com/ULNewsletter" rel="nofollow">https://tinyurl.com/ULNewsletter</a>Please 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&#39;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 Degan

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 our newsletter visit: https://tinyurl.com/ULNewsletter

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How DO Architecture Co-Designs for Dignity After Disaster | Omar Degan

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/7/7/5/99fc9d13-8e5c-4d21-940a-9dceecb6b416_trailer_-_season_2_urban_limitrophe.mp3

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.

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 coming soon.

What's in Season 2 of Urban Limitrophe?

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/12/1/3/3a8989ed-2eaf-4e5e-9547-1bed24a4b20b_dafe_oputu_final_-_nov_30_2024_.mp3

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&#39; strategies to encourage public participation and civic action, and why voting is crucial for building better cities. Together we also unpack Africa&#39;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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references and guest details. To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music by Imany LambropoulosPodcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

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&#39; strategies to encourage public participation and civic action, and why voting is crucial for building better cities. Together we also unpack Africa&#39;s obsession with megacities, like Akon City and Eko Atlantic (and how to avoid creating ghost cities).

Guest: Dafe Oputu

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, references and guest details. 

To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Civic Action Shapes Cities and What to Avoid When Building Megacities From Scratch | Dafe Oputu

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/10/24/5/94263536-a6ba-4288-aa4d-2d2bee800d3a_titus_kaloki_episode__october_24_2024_.mp3

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:<ul><li>Please visit <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes, references, and guest details. </li><li>To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: <a href="https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe</a></li><li>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com </li></ul>Credits: <ul><li>Music by Imany Lambropoulos</li><li>Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos</li></ul>

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 Kaloki

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, references, and guest details. 
- To access social media, newsletter, and additional projects visit: https://linktr.ee/urbanlimitrophe
- Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 
- Music by Imany Lambropoulos
- Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How the Just Cities Project is Using 3D Modeling to Co-Design Smart Cities in Kenya | Titus Kaloki

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/9/1/21/6e5a21de-d8f2-4a7e-ac97-fc41760f6fdc_final_-_mayara_episod.mp3

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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>Subscribe to the newsletter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/dKQV9" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/dKQV9</a>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com Credits: Music and editing 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 Paula

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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music and editing by Imany Lambropoulos

Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Escrevivências Challenge Urban Planning Norms: Afro-Brazilian Communities’ Strategies for Reclaiming the Right to the City | Mayara Almeida de Paula

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/8/15/4/742104b2-c8b8-4017-97cc-7d2e7e657808_think_tanger_-_final_episode__august_15_2024_.mp3

In this episode, we&#39;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&#39;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:<ul><li>Planning in multicultural cities and suburbs </li><li>The importance of people-centred practices to urban/suburban development</li><li>Think Tanger&#39;s StudioCity program and how it promotes dialogue, arts, city-building, and neighbourhood pride in Tangier</li><li>The foundational elements of Think Tanger&#39;s approach to fostering a more inclusive and engaged community</li><li>Exploring the colonial history of Tangier and its impact on the city&#39;s culture and built environment</li><li>How 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 city</li><li>Crafting inclusive approaches that resonate with the unique cultural and historical context of a city</li><li>Strengthening cultural programming and development through strategic collaborations and financial support</li><li>Inclusive approaches to cultural planning</li></ul> Guest: Amine Houari of Think TangerCo-Hosts: Naziha Nasrin of plazaPOPS 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>Subscribe to the newsletter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/dKQV9" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/dKQV9</a>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, we&#39;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&#39;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 development
- Think Tanger&#39;s StudioCity program and how it promotes dialogue, arts, city-building, and neighbourhood pride in Tangier
- The foundational elements of Think Tanger&#39;s approach to fostering a more inclusive and engaged community
- Exploring the colonial history of Tangier and its impact on the city&#39;s culture and built environment
- How 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 city
- Crafting inclusive approaches that resonate with the unique cultural and historical context of a city
- Strengthening cultural programming and development through strategic collaborations and financial support
- Inclusive approaches to cultural planning

Guest: Amine Houari of Think Tanger

Co-Host: Naziha Nasrin of plazaPOPS


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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 


Credits: 
Music and editing by Imany Lambropoulos
Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Think Tanger's Multicultural Approach Transforms Suburban and Urban Spaces | Amine Houari & Naziha Nasrin

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/18/1/ddaea325-3e55-4752-bd06-a4464c1a5636_bicycle_mayor_-_urban_limitrophe_-_dec_17_2023.mp3

Join me, along with my co-hosts Joycelyn and Erin, as we dive into an insightful conversation with Lanrick Bennett Jr., Toronto&#39;s Bicycle Mayor, and the Executive Director of Charlie&#39;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:<ul><li>Understanding the significance of inclusive cycling infrastructure</li><li>Exploring how Shaw St has evolved into Toronto&#39;s cycling haven</li><li>The importance of political will in creating safer streets</li><li>Ways to actively contribute to advocating for safer streets in your community</li><li>Insights from international transit advocates on Toronto&#39;s cycling infrastructure</li><li>What it takes to ensure safer streets for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike</li><li>The global network of Bicycle Mayors and their impact on urban development</li><li>And much more</li></ul> Guest: Lanrick Bennett Jr., Bicycle Mayor of Toronto &amp; 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:<ul><li>Please visit <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. </li><li>Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a></li><li>Subscribe to the newsletter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/dKQV9" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/dKQV9</a></li><li>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com </li></ul> Credits: <ul><li>Music by Imany Lambropoulos</li><li>Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos</li></ul>

Join me, along with my co-hosts Joycelyn and Erin, as we dive into an insightful conversation with Lanrick Bennett Jr., Toronto&#39;s Bicycle Mayor, and the Executive Director of Charlie&#39;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.
﻿
Guest: Lanrick Bennett Jr., Bicycle Mayor of Toronto &amp; Executive Director of Charlie’s FreeWheels

Co-Hosts: Joycelyn Guan and Erin

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. 

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music by Imany Lambropoulos
Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How the Bicycle Mayor of Toronto is Making Toronto's Streets Safer for All | Lanrick Bennett Jr., Joycelyn Guan & Erin

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/18/16/b7cf0f90-088b-406f-a835-8cdb23090e3b_un_sneak_peek_-_urban_limitrophe_-_dec_18_2023.mp3

This episode marks the first video episode of the podcast! Here&#39;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, &#34;Journey of Adé.&#34; Destinie also shares the excitement of exhibiting at Toronto&#39;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 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srnqt0NuzNg" rel="nofollow">Urban Limitrophe YouTube channel</a> 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Subscribe to the newsletter: <a href="https://shorturl.at/dKQV9" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/dKQV9</a>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

This episode marks the first video episode of the podcast! Here&#39;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, &#34;Journey of Adé.&#34;  Destinie also shares the excitement of exhibiting at Toronto&#39;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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srnqt0NuzNg

Guest: Destinie Adélakun, Behind the Art Collective

Acknowledgements:

This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities, the Department of Geography and Planning, and GlowReel

About Urban Limitrophe:

Please visit www.urbanlimitrophe.com for all episode show notes and references and guest details. 

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dKQV9

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com

Artistry Beyond Borders: Exploring the Power of Public Art in Toronto with Destinie Adélakun

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/5/29/3/a904f4aa-bd42-4df6-8d0a-baacd890b52a_e_charter_cities_institute__cci___may_28_2023_.mp3

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 &#34;Guided Organic Growth: An urban planning framework for charter cities.&#34; In this episode, you&#39;ll learn about:<ul><li>What are charter cities and why promoting good governance is at the heart of making them work</li><li>The benefits of taking an incremental approach to infrastructure development for more affordability and efficiency </li><li>The importance of adapting urban policies and plans to the evolving needs of citizens</li><li>And much more!</li></ul> Guest: Heba Elhanafy, Charter Cities Institute (CCI) Zambia<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/5688210546877322366" rel="nofollow">www.chartercitiesinstitute.org</a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/5688210546877322366" rel="nofollow">@hebaelhanafi</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/5688210546877322366" rel="nofollow">@hebaelhanafy</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/5688210546877322366" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/heba-elhanafy-918691a0</a></li></ul> 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>Please 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 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 &#34;Guided Organic Growth: An urban planning framework for charter cities.&#34; 

In this episode, you&#39;ll learn about:
- What are charter cities and why promoting good governance is at the heart of making them work
- The 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 citizens
- And much more!


Guest: Heba Elhanafy, Charter Cities Institute (CCI) Zambia

- Website:  www.chartercitiesinstitute.org
- Twitter: @hebaelhanafi
- Instagram: @hebaelhanafy
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heba-elhanafy-918691a0

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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 
- Music and editing by Imany Lambropoulos
- Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How the Charter Cities Institute Promotes Inclusive and Adaptable Planning for Sustainable New Cities | Heba Elhanafy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/3/27/17/e2432b29-a4aa-447e-bfb9-c770d9edb879_urban_limitrophe_ushahidi__03_23_23_.mp3

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&#39;ll learn about:<ul><li>how Ushahidi has been leveraged by communities and governments worldwide, </li><li>how to keep communities at the center of innovation, </li><li>and much more!</li></ul> Guest: Angela Oduor Lungati, CEO of Ushahidi<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/2422646719397083908" rel="nofollow">www.ushahidi.com</a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/2422646719397083908" rel="nofollow">@AngieNicoleOD</a> | <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/2422646719397083908" rel="nofollow">@Ushahidi</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/2422646719397083908" rel="nofollow">@Ushahidi</a></li><li>Donate: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/2422646719397083908" rel="nofollow">give.ushahidi.com</a></li></ul> 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>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&#39;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 Ushahidi
- Website:  www.ushahidi.com
- Twitter: @AngieNicoleOD | @Ushahidi
- Instagram: @Ushahidi
- Donate: give.ushahidi.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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

Music and editing by Imany Lambropoulos
Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Ushahidi is Using Crowdsourcing to Help Community Disaster Response and Recovery | Angela Oduor Lungati

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/10/9/1/aec108c5-5889-409c-85e2-2761c05ee17b_ban_limitophe_waza_public_art_episode_08_10_22.mp3

En novembre 2021, j&#39;ai eu le plaisir de parler avec M. Patrick Mudekereza le Directeur Exécutif du Centre d&#39;Art Waza. Le Centre d&#39;Art Waza, situé à Lubumbashi, en République démocratique du Congo une ville désignée en 2015 par l&#39;UNESCO, comme étant la Ville créative d&#39;artisanat et des arts populaires. Ainsi, pendant notre discussion nous parlons par rapport de la créativité des Lushois, du rôle de l&#39;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:<ul><li>pourquoi l’art public est si important pour les villes et les communautés qui les accueillent,</li><li>l&#39;histoire de la ville de Lubumbashi d&#39;un perspective artistique,</li><li>qu’est-ce qui fait de Lubumbashi une ville aussi créative,</li><li>et bien plus encore!</li></ul> Invité: Patrick Mudekereza<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/4164151964812174787" rel="nofollow">www.centredartwaza.org</a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/4164151964812174787" rel="nofollow">@centredartwaza</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/4164151964812174787" rel="nofollow">@centredartwaza</a></li></ul> Remerciements:Cet épisode est co-parrainé par l&#39;Université de Toronto School of Cities et le Département de Geographie et de l&#39;Aménagement Urban Limitrophe:Veuillez visitez <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> pour toutes les notes et références de l’émission et les détails sur les invités.<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophepodcast" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophepodcast </a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a></li><li>Contact: hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com </li></ul> Assistance: <ul><li>Monteur et producteur de musique: Imany Lambropoulos</li><li>Animatrice de podcast et graphiste: Alexandra Lambropoulos</li></ul>

En novembre 2021, j&#39;ai eu le plaisir de parler avec M. Patrick Mudekereza le Directeur Exécutif du Centre d&#39;Art Waza. Le Centre d&#39;art Waza, situé à Lubumbashi, en République démocratique du Congo une ville désignée en 2015 par l&#39;UNESCO, comme étant la Ville créative d&#39;artisanat et des arts populaires. Ainsi, pendant notre discussion nous parlons par rapport de la créativité des Lushois, du rôle de l&#39;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&#39;histoire de la ville de Lubumbashi d&#39;un perspective artistique,
- qu’est-ce qui fait de Lubumbashi une ville aussi créative,
- et bien plus encore!
 
Invité: Patrick Mudekereza
- Website: www.centredartwaza.org
- Twitter: @centredartwaza
- Instagram: @centredartwaza

Remerciements:

Cet épisode est co-parrainé par l&#39;Université de Toronto School of Cities et le Département de Geographie et de l&#39;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 Lambropoulos
- Animatrice de podcast et graphiste: Alexandra Lambropoulos

Comment le Centre d'Art Waza fait la promotion des artistes et de l'art populaire à Lubumbashi | Patrick Mudekereza

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/8/22/1/7f432d93-5c77-40d7-801f-15032ab6d811_urban_limitrophe_cluster_cairo__08_21_22_.mp3

In this episode, my co-host Sami Ferwati and I chat with Salma Elbasty from <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/1619241470674420816" rel="nofollow">CLUSTER</a> (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&#39;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&#39;ll learn about:<ul><li>urban informality and its role in creative cities,</li><li>the process CLUSTER follows to undertake their various creative, community-based activities,</li><li>the Critical Arab Urban Lexicon (CAUL) and the importance of translating urban terms into different languages, </li><li>ALFABRIKA, CLUSTER&#39;s maker space and community hub,</li><li>and much more!</li></ul> Guest: Salma Elbasty, CLUSTER<ul><li>Website: www.clustercairo.org</li><li>Twitter: @clustercairo</li><li>Instagram: @clustercairo</li></ul> Co-Host: Sami Ferwati Acknowledgements:This episode is co-sponsored by the University of Toronto School of Cities and the Department of Geography and Planning.  About Urban Limitrophe:<ul><li>Please visit <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. </li><li>Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a></li><li>Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com </li></ul> Credits: <ul><li>Music by Imany Lambropoulos</li><li>Podcast concept, development, and design by Alexandra Lambropoulos</li></ul>

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&#39;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&#39;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&#39;s maker space and community hub,
- and much more!

Guest: Salma Elbasty, CLUSTER

- Website: www.clustercairo.org
- Twitter: @clustercairo
- Instagram: @clustercairo


Co-Host: Sami Ferwati


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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 
- Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 
- Music by Imany Lambropoulos
- Podcast concept, development, and design  by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How CLUSTER is Bridging Western Urban Understanding From the Middle East to North Africa | Salma Elbasty & Sami Ferwati

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/8/15/3/d1b951e6-66a5-49da-834c-894c1faa18e7_ban_limitrophe_book_bunk_episode__august_2022_.mp3

In this episode, my co-host Jane O&#39;Brien Davis and I chat with Marion Anvango at Book Bunk. Book Bunk is &#34;working to restore some of Nairobi&#39;s most iconic public libraries into sites of heritage, public art, collective memory, knowledge production, shared experiences, cultural leadership and information exchange.&#34; During our discussion, we explore their diverse series of programming that they offer in their public library branches. We also chat about Book Bunk&#39;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&#39;ll learn about:<ul><li>how they involve the community in the restoration of public libraries,</li><li>their experiential, digital, architectural, and social approach to restoring public libraries,</li><li>their efforts to make library services more accessible for those living with disabilities,</li><li>why public libraries are so important for cities to have,</li><li>and much more!</li></ul> Guest: Marion Anvango, Book Bunk<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/3559239657597034795" rel="nofollow">https://www.bookbunk.org/</a></li><li>Twitter: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/1331415965925673780" rel="nofollow">@thebookbunk</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/1331415965925673780" rel="nofollow">@thebookbunk</a></li></ul> Co-Host: Jane O’Brien Davis<ul><li>Twitter/Instagram: @janeobd</li><li>Linkedin:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/1468119243913809552/1331415965925673780" rel="nofollow"> linkedin.com/in/jane-o-brien-davis-772211197/</a></li></ul> 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>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&#39;Brien Davis and I chat with Marion Anvango at Book Bunk. The Book Bunk is &#34;working to restore some of Nairobi&#39;s most iconic public libraries into sites of heritage, public art, collective memory, knowledge production, shared experiences, cultural leadership and information exchange.&#34; During our discussion, we explore their diverse series of programming that they offer in their public library branches. We also chat about Book Bunk&#39;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&#39;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 Bunk
- Website: https://www.bookbunk.org/
- Twitter: @thebookbunk
- Instagram: @thebookbunk

Co-Host: Jane O’Brien Davis
- Twitter/Instagram: @janeobd
- Linkedin: 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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 
- Music by Imany Lambropoulos
- Podcast concept, development, and design  by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Book Bunk is Restoring Public Libraries Across Nairobi | Marion Anvango & Jane O'Brien Davis

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/7/24/7/a166c75d-8505-47c7-ba9f-4b676d94573e_ophe_black_futures_now_toronto___july_24_2022_.mp3

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&#39;ll learn about:<ul><li>why it&#39;s important to map Black histories and Black geographies,</li><li>what is counter/radical mapping and how it can be used as a tool for community building,</li><li>how Black Futures Now Toronto developed their virtual community centre,</li><li>the youth responsible for creating the content for the Mapping Black Futures project,</li><li>and much more!</li></ul> Guest: Adwoa Afful, Black Futures Now Toronto<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://blackfuturesnow.to/" rel="nofollow">www.blackfuturesnow.to/</a></li><li>Twitter: @BlackFuturesNow</li><li>Instagram: @bfntoronto</li><li>bfntoronto[at]gmail.com </li></ul> 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 <a href="http://www.urbanlimitrophe.com" rel="nofollow">www.urbanlimitrophe.com</a> for all episode show notes and references and guest details. Instagram &amp; Twitter: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/urbanlimitrophe" rel="nofollow">@urbanlimitrophe </a>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 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&#39;ll learn about:
- why it&#39;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 Toronto
- Website: www.blackfuturesnow.to/
- Twitter: @BlackFuturesNow
- Instagram: @bfntoronto
- bfntoronto[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 &amp; Twitter: @urbanlimitrophe 

Please address any related communication to hello[at]urbanlimitrophe.com 

Credits: 

- Music by Imany Lambropoulos
- Editing by Hannah Ahamedi
- Podcast concept, development, and design  by Alexandra Lambropoulos

How Black Futures Now Toronto Turned Local Histories into a Virtual Community Centre | Adwoa Afful

Urban Limitrophe is a podcast exploring the various initiatives happening in cities across the African continent (and diaspora) to creatively solve problems, support their communities, create vibrant urban spaces, and build better cities overall. 

Ideas from the continent are often overlooked. This podcast seeks to bring to light the intersecting ideas and practices from urban planning, architecture, economics, arts and culture, geography, and politics that define our urban living, and uncover how to build resilient communities, economies, and ecologies.

Tune in to catch interviews with urban planners, designers, researchers, community-builders, creatives and more, doing great work to change the future of their cities and find out how you support them to make a difference in their communities and get inspired to take action in yours.