Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
The opening of the first playground that I designed as a Landscape Designer. Seeing the shared space enjoyed by the community was heart warming. The giggles of the children, the apparent relief of the parents (knowing their children were able to enjoy the space safely), and the pride of the veterans with the newly dedicated space for their local hero. These being meaning and motivation to me as a place-maker. It always comes down to how people experience place.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
We should be working collaboratively within and between industries to tackle issues of climate resilience, housing affordability and houselessness, and looking to equip the next generation of professionals.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I encourage people to volunteer. While your expertise will be of great value, the real value is what you learn about yourself and gain from others that you work with.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I learned classical piano and passed the Grade 7 ABRSM (Royal School of Music) exams.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Teachable. That’s how I thrive, understanding how others view the world and challenging my own views
erin July 2nd, 2025
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
The moments that bring me the greatest joy are the same ones that drew me to this industry in the first place, talking with people about one of the most important decisions they’ll ever make: choosing the place they’ll call home, where they’ll build their lives and community. Through working closely with my peers in customer care and property management, I’ve developed relationships with the very people we design these spaces for, years before they ever move in. Hearing how the spaces we create leads to that individual or family’s happiness is amazing. On the marketing side, I’m especially proud of having played a key role in the strategy behind award-winning campaigns like 101 Spadina. From luxury developments like La Clara in Palm Beach to purpose-built rentals across Southern Ontario, I’ve had the privilege of leading campaigns that span diverse markets. Each project has been an opportunity to learn from talented peers, consultants, and team members and those collaborations have shaped my journey in a meaningful way.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Alison O’Neill (Market Vision, COO). Alison leads by example, taking great pride in the smallest of jobs to the most strategic. She empowers her team to impact the development trajectory far beyond the typical marketing scope. Through many years of friendship and mentorship, I have learned how to lead with integrity and ask the right questions.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
Over the remainder of this year and likely into the next, our industry will continue to face some of its most difficult challenges yet. The traditional playbook for condominium development is no longer effective. To move forward, we must return to fundamentals, creating homes that people are genuinely proud to live in. One of the biggest challenges we face is reshaping the narrative around condo living and renting. This won’t happen through marketing alone, it requires a renewed focus on thoughtful design, livable spaces, and fostering real community within our buildings. Affordability remains a critical issue and addressing it will require coordinated support from all levels of government. We need policies that not only enable more housing supply but also restore confidence in the broader economic outlook. As developers, we must shift our focus toward delivering homes that are appropriately designed and priced for the realities of the Canadian market, not just for a narrow, high-end segment that is already saturated. This means embracing innovation, prioritizing livability, and building for a more inclusive and resilient urban future.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
Empowering my teammates and peers is a priority for me, it leads to stronger outcomes and fosters a culture of shared success. I believe in setting others up to thrive by being open with knowledge and experience, never gatekeeping. I aim to share my knowledge in a way that’s clear, constructive, and encouraging. I also focus on building strong, trust-based relationships where people feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and going the extra mile. When people feel supported and valued, they’re more confident, creative, and collaborative and that’s when the best work happens.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I took the Stand-Up course at Second City — apparently, my enthusiasm for puns was a bit much. That feedback turned out to be surprisingly useful: over the years, it’s helped me craft content that’s clever without the cringe.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Tenacious by nature, I firmly believe that where there’s a will, there’s a way. I operate with a strong internal locus of control (to a fault) which means I truly believe I can influence outcomes through effort and intention. I focus on the small, strategic actions that build toward a successful campaign or program, knowing that every step, no matter how minor, contributes to meaningful progress.
erin July 2nd, 2025
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
During my time at the University of Waterloo School of Architecture, my co-op placements were a defining period in my career journey. I had the opportunity to work in a variety of cities, offices, and on projects of different sizes and scales. This hands-on exposure allowed me to explore many aspects of architecture and better understand what kind of work environment suited me best. One particularly impactful experience was working at a global architecture firm in New York City. My boss there was balancing a young family, and I admired how they managed the fast pace and large scale of projects with grace. I loved the energy of the office and the complexity of the work, and I realized I could picture myself thriving in that kind of environment one day. Today, I’m proud to say that I do.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Bonny McLoud. One of my first and most important mentors was Bonny McLoud, the Managing Director who took a chance on me at Gensler. She’s a fierce champion for women in architecture and business, and a proud supporter of ULI and the Women’s Leadership Initiative. When I became a mother, Bonny was my biggest advocate – she truly believed that motherhood would make me a stronger architect. From her, I learned how to lead with both confidence and kindness, how to navigate challenges, and how to trust my own voice. Her support gave me the courage to step into leadership when I wasn’t always sure I was ready.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
One of the biggest challenges facing Toronto today is ensuring the city remains welcoming and supportive of young families. As a parent myself, this is a lens through which I view many of the city’s needs and opportunities. Affordability is critical – housing options that are accessible and suitable for families must be a priority. Beyond that, inclusive public spaces like playgrounds where children of all abilities can play and connect are essential for building strong communities. We also need to embrace innovative urban housing solutions that respond to changing family structures and lifestyles. Reliable, accessible public transit is key to connecting families to work, school, and amenities without relying solely on cars. And of course, clean, safe neighborhoods are fundamental to quality of life. As an industry, we must design with these priorities in mind to create a Toronto where families can thrive. Collaboration across sectors will be key to making this vision a reality.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I champion young architects by offering mentorship and support tailored to their unique challenges – especially women and young parents balancing career and family. I strive to create a safe space where they can grow, ask questions, and build confidence. Helping them navigate the industry and find opportunities to succeed is deeply important to me. I’m committed to advocating for inclusive leadership and building a community where everyone can thrive.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
My secret talent is a deep – sometimes embarrassingly deep – knowledge of pop culture. Trivia nights hate to see me coming.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
erin July 2nd, 2025
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
A magic moment in my career was when I finally found my voice—when I felt confident enough to speak up for my ideas and stand up for my colleagues. It came from learning to believe in myself and understanding that it’s okay to ask for help along the way.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Some of the major influencers in my career have been a handful of inspiring women from BDP Quadrangle—many of whom are already recognized as WLI Champions. Three in particular who stand out for me are: Michelle Xuereb and Andrea Katz of BDPQ and Ena Kenny at Stantec. When I think about what I admire most about all three, it’s the way they show up as their true selves—kind, curious, and real. They build genuine connections and lead with heart, all while getting things done. I’ve seen them ask the tough questions, stand up for others, and go out of their way to make sure the people around them feel seen, heard, and valued.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
One of the biggest challenges in our industry is sustaining meaningful EDI strategies within corporate culture. We’ve made progress by valuing diversity and authenticity, but moving forward means creating space for people to be real—curious, vulnerable, proud, or anxious. When we lead with care, we foster a collaborative culture where people feel safe to connect and contribute their best.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I try to champion others by reframing disability and belonging as something shaped by the spaces we design. When we see the built environment as a tool for inclusion, we take a meaningful step toward creating places where everyone feels welcome.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I am oddly proud of my ability to efficiently load a dishwasher – feel like it is a transferrable skill in my line of work, while ensuring I get invited back for another dinner party.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Happy—I’m not always there, but when I look back, that’s the feeling that sticks. I’m grateful for the ride so far, and I hope the joy keeps outweighing the doubts and bumps along the way.
erin July 2nd, 2025
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
One of the most wonderful things about working in housing development is that there are so many “magic moments” and milestones! As I look around the city, it is a wonderful feeling to see so many beautiful buildings whose financing I was involved with when I was at CMHC. And it is gratifying to know that families across the country have homes of their own, thanks to the financial and professional expertise of the team I led when I was at Habitat Canada.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Over the past three years, my main mentor has been Tsering Yangki, Executive Vice President, Real Estate Finance & Development at dream. Tsering has generously shared professional expertise and her thoughtful perspective on life, enhancing my capabilities and reinforcing my values
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
As a wise policy wonk said to me recently, “we will never solve the housing crisis by hiring underwriters, we need to hire poets.” In other words, we need to critically consider many basic assumptions: is density bonusing really the best way to create more affordable housing? How long can capital be tied up in big sites before IRR is meaningless? Will today’s buildings stand the test of time?
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
As a manager, I always try to create the conditions where my team can succeed. I provide individual feedback and encourage training opportunities. Privately, there is always at least one person in the industry who I am working with to mentor, generally on situational ethics or soft skills.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I like to paint – with acrylics and a palette knife. There is nothing more exhilarating than smearing colour across canvas!
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Passionate. I am high-energy and driven by my deeply held values that this moment – today! – is our chance and our responsibility to leave the world a little bit better for tomorrow, within our sphere of influence.
erin July 2nd, 2025
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
For the first part of my career, I was very active in collaborating within the office and with consultants, but I’ll never forget the moment that I was asked to participate in my first project meeting with our client and contractor executive team. By having a seat at the table, I’ve been able to work with many people and hear diverse points of view and skillsets. Because of this I’ve come to appreciate the power of collaboration and in building strong relationships. Our industry is a highly collaborative industry – it’s not just one person’s responsibility to have all the knowledge and know-how. It’s about making connections and working together to solve a problem. It’s about active listening, strong communication, and working together to figure out the next steps. We’re never not learning in this industry – each of us will never know everything there is to know – so we must rely on each other’s expertise and adapt to change in our ever-evolving field together.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Mentor #1: Vaidila Banelis, Senior Partner, Zeidler Architecture, Working closely with Vai, I’ve learned from his ability to be both firm and accommodating. He’s taught me how to find ways to balance our clients’ needs while also being confident in my expertise and judgement. Vai is also both professional and personable. He treats his colleagues like friends and family, and his approachability has shown me that strong connections result in a positive environment and great work.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
Our industry can be hesitant to innovate. Innovating can be expensive, we’re comfortable with how we’ve done things in the past, or new ways of doing things could mean new liabilities. I think our biggest challenge is shaking up the industry to overcome these perceived barriers so that we can foster new ways of doing things. To overcome this challenge, every member of the team must buy into this; everyone has to be excited by it.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I think the best way to champion others in the industry is to make sure we’re all excited about the work we’re doing. I want my colleagues to genuinely enjoy coming into work each day. When we’re all engaged and inspired, there’s more communication and idea-sharing. I think this is the best way to learn and grow.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
Animal whisperer. I have many animals, including two horses and a dachshund. I love caring for them, and it’s reciprocated – we feed off each other. Tending to them also gives me a sense of calm after a busy work week.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Hyped! I think energy and enthusiasm is the biggest motivator. We can get our work done while also having fun doing it.
erin July 2nd, 2024
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
I recall my days as a fax runner, hustling during lump sum bid closings for a general contractor. Fresh out of school, my task was to hover by the fax machine, eagerly gathering bids as they came in and swiftly delivering them to the appropriate person handling that specific scope of work. The frantic energy of the closing room was oddly exhilarating as I dashed in and out, clutching fax prints. I admired the Chief estimator, who remained composed amidst the chaos, serving as a beacon of calm amid the storm of ringing phones and eager trades on the other end. Years later, I found myself leading my own bid, guiding a team of estimators to brace for the frenzy of closing day. Now, as the Chief Estimator at my current company, I recently orchestrated a half-billion-dollar bid closing, stepping into that familiar room, but this time not as a fax runner, but as the steady hand everyone looked to for direction. Drawing from the lessons of those before me, I navigated the high-stakes environment, managing stress and steering the proceedings. To some, it may seem like a whirlwind of frantic calls and number crunching, but for those involved, it’s a culmination of months of diligent work and readiness, unfolding like a meticulously orchestrated performance.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Mentor #1: Risk Manager at Previous company. During my early years at a previous general contractor, I had a mentor who served as a Risk Manager. This individual took a hands-on approach, involving me in all project tasks right from the start. They provided me with invaluable exposure to client-facing meetings early on, allowing me to truly grasp the significance of our work’s outcomes. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of building trade networks and encouraged me to forge my own relationships with key industry players. This mindset has enabled me to cultivate a vast network of tradespeople, clients, and consultants in the construction industry today. Furthermore, I gleaned valuable lessons in work ethics and the importance of doing things the right way from my mentor. Their thoroughness and approach to estimating laid the groundwork for my skills development throughout my career. Importantly, my mentor never allowed me to perceive gender, race, or age as barriers in the construction industry. They consistently placed me at the forefront of meetings and opportunities, pushing me to showcase my abilities confidently and without hesitation.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
Workforce Development and Diversity: The construction industry faces a shortage of skilled labor, exacerbated by an aging workforce and a lack of diversity. Addressing this challenge requires investing in workforce development programs, promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives, and attracting a new generation of workers to the industry. – Establish training programs and apprenticeships to develop a skilled labor force. – Promote diversity and inclusion initiatives to attract underrepresented groups to the construction industry. – Provide mentorship and career advancement opportunities for women and minorities. – Collaborate with educational institutions to align curriculums with industry needs. Technological Advancements: Embracing technology is essential for driving innovation and improving productivity in the construction industry. This includes adopting Building Information Modeling (BIM), virtual reality, drones, and other advanced technologies to streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and deliver projects more efficiently. – Invest in research and development of construction technology solutions. – Provide training and support for adopting new technologies within the industry. – Foster collaboration between technology providers, contractors, and other stakeholders. – Encourage innovation through competitions, hackathons, and industry partnerships.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
Being a visible minority women in this industry coming from a very different background than many others; I have felt first hand the value that good mentorship does to young minds. I was lucky in my career to have had some very important moments of good mentorship and leadership which motivated me to be where I am now. I actively now mentor mentor and guide individuals, especially those who are new to the industry, by providing hands-on experience, sharing valuable insights, and fostering professional development. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and diversity, actively working to break down barriers based on gender, race, or age. Moreover, I encourage networking and relationship-building among industry professionals, recognizing the significance of strong connections in the construction field. I promote collaboration and cooperation, both within my own team and with external partners, fostering an environment of support and mutual growth.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I am a very good Vacation planner! I take all my excel sheet skills and prepare very elaborate budget and itineraries for all my trips with friends and families. ALSO, I have competitively danced throughout my University years, so put some good Dancehall, Hip/Hop, Reggae and I’ll be breaking it down on the dance floor.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Trail blazer. I challenge traditional norms and push boundaries whether it’s in terms of gender, race, or outdated industry practices. By breaking barriers and forging new paths, I inspire others to follow suit and contribute to positive change within the construction industry. My innovative approach and commitment to progress make me a true trailblazer in my field.
erin July 2nd, 2024
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
Early in my career, I was given an opportunity to bring forward a Planning Opinion at a Committee of Adjustment Hearing at short notice. For this file, I had been responsible for preparing a Planning Opinion Letter for a Senior Practitioner. She told me that she was confident that I had developed the expertise to present and discuss a Planning Opinion in front of the public. I was successful at the Hearing. From that day forward, I was trusted with presenting Planning Opinions and representing landowners at municipal meetings, public meetings, and Ontario Land Tribunal Hearings. Beyond this, my passion for learning about Planning-Adjacent fields led me to thrive in project coordination. This skill was noticed by Senior Practitioners who encouraged me to pursue Project Leadership. This leadership role allowed me to be in a position to mentor staff in Land Use Planning and be a trusted project leader in Land Development. Now, I lead the Practice Area of Land Use Planning in Eastern Canada at WSP.
Who were your major influencers/mentors (up to 2) and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
Mentor #1: Diana Santo, Fellow Professional Planner, Diana taught that as Planners, confidence is built on having a solid Planning Opinion, Quality, and Professionalism. In general, if you are confident in your work, you will be confident as a professional.
Mentor #2: Chad B. John-Baptiste, Registered Professional Planner, Chad teaches that an effective Planner maintains awareness of the world that impacts Planning. He often brings attention to the impacts of politics, economy, market, and technical considerations on our work.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
We need to work on re-focusing our built environment so that it will be natural for people to enjoy their surroundings and positively interact with people in their community. This effort will require collaborating with industries that effect the built environment beyond land development. In addition to urban design, examples include marketing companies, recreation and leisure, and community initiatives.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I mentor a group of early to mid career planners on a daily basis through land development project work. I work with these individuals to build skills in critical analysis and share my knowledge of the land use planning process and the land development industry in Ontario. I am open to answering questions from these individuals to support their learning and growth as Professional Planners. When an individual demonstrates adequate skills and knowledge, I will find stretch opportunities for these individuals on current projects and recommend career advancement as appropriate. I always encourage others to network within the land development industry through volunteering and attending events through ULI and other organizations within the land industry.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I have the ability to perform ballet.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Reliable. When I am involved in an initiative, I care deeply about the people involved and the outcome.
erin July 2nd, 2024
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Milestones in a career and life are a wonderful way of inspiring our emerging young leaders. Please share a proud or “magic moment” that shaped your journey?
One defining moment in my journey was when Toronto Life featured my family’s decision to live in a mid-rise apartment in downtown Toronto with two children and no car, in an article titled “Urbs vs. Burbs: My parks are nicer than your backyards.”
What made that moment meaningful was not just the publicity itself, but what it represented: an urban lifestyle I had been advocating for professionally suddenly became part of a much broader public conversation. It showed me that ideas about affordability, family life, and sustainable city-building could resonate far beyond the planning and design world. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak across Canada, and one of the most rewarding parts of that journey has been seeing ideas I was once told were too niche or too ambitious become increasingly mainstream.
Who were your major influencers/mentors and what were the key lessons you gained from them?
There is a book my mum gave my daughter that I often read with her, and it inspires me every time. It is called Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Tales of Extraordinary Women. Reading about the achievements, struggles, and persistence of so many remarkable women from different places and moments in history reminds me to stay committed to my own path.
What do you think are the next big challenges we need to tackle as an industry and as a successful city-region? Are there specific things you think we should be doing to meet the challenges?
We are still struggling to build enough housing in the kinds of places people actually want to live. The challenge is not only supply. It is whether we can create neighbourhoods that are more affordable, more complete, and better designed at the same time. Too often, we treat these goals as if they are in conflict.
They are not.
I believe the opportunity ahead is to shape growth more thoughtfully through better streets, blocks, buildings, and public spaces, and to communicate that vision in a way the public can clearly understand. When people can see what is possible, it becomes much easier to build support for the kind of change our cities need.
Tell us how you champion others in the industry.
I try to champion others by sharing what I know and making space where I can. I have benefited a lot from people who were generous with their time, advice, and encouragement, and I try to do the same for others. That has included supporting students, newcomers, and internationally trained professionals, hosting meetups and webinars, and sharing ideas through writing and public speaking. I do not see this as something separate from my work. I think we all have a responsibility to help make the industry a little more open and a little easier to navigate for the people coming into it.
What is your secret talent no one knows you have?
I am not sure how secret it is, but I am very good at simplifying complex things. I enjoy taking things that seem technical, abstract, or overwhelming and translating them into something clear and easy to understand. I tend to find the clear thread that helps other people make sense of it too.
What is the best word to describe you? And Why?
Bold is probably the best word to describe me. I have never been afraid to question the status quo or speak plainly when something is not working. Much of what I have advocated for over the years in housing, urban design, and city-building was not always popular or widely accepted. I kept going anyway. For me, boldness is not about being loud. It is about having the courage to stay clear, honest, and persistent about the future you want to build.
erin July 2nd, 2024
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