The Century of Cities

The Century of Cities welcomes Jorick Beijer, Urbanist and Co-Founder of Blossity, a global strategy consultancy driving innovation districts and corporate urbanism. In this special listener series, Jorick shares the episodes he loved most, the guests who sparked new ideas, and the cities that left a lasting impression.

In this special listener series of The Century of Cities, we're joined by Bhakti More, Chairperson & Professor at the School of Design & Architecture and Head of the Centre for ESG at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai Campus. Bhakti shares her favourite episodes, standout guests, and the cities that have captured her imagination.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we are joined by Eugenie Birch, scholar, city planner, and Lawrence C. Nussdorf Chair of Urban Research at the University of Pennsylvania. With an eye on both history and horizon, Genie discusses the divergent trajectories of northern and southern cities, and why policy gaps, financing bottlenecks, and the role of planners will define the next century. She makes the case for universities as anchor institutions, explains the trillion-dollar shortfall in climate-resilient infrastructure, and shares bold ideas behind urban finance. Genie also explains why technical expertise and political trust must grow together, how the global South can leapfrog with the right investment, and why she remains "extremely optimistic" about the long game for cities.

Clare Wildfire, Global Cities Lead at Mott MacDonald and a champion of systems thinking, joins The Century of Cities to explore how infrastructure has evolved since 1980, why today's cities are hitting critical limits, and how reimagining interconnectivity can unlock more resilient, inclusive futures. Drawing on her journey from engineering megaprojects to convening cross-sector conversations, Clare offers a unique lens on the systems that power urban life. She discusses the cascading risks cities now face, from climate breakdown to social inequality, and paints two vivid futures for 2080: one dystopian, one regenerative. Her message is clear: to build cities that thrive, we must design with complexity, curiosity, and collaboration at the core.

The Century of Cities welcomes Lord Marvin (Baron Rees of Easton) Rees OBE, Former Mayor of Bristol and Member of the House of Lords. Marvin reflects on growing up in a racially divided, economically constrained Bristol of the 1980s, and contrasts it with today's booming but still deeply unequal urban landscape. He shares what it means to lead with lived experience and why inclusion isn't optional, it's foundational. Spanning past, present, and future, Marvin makes the case for cities that plan boldly, act intentionally, and build trust across generations. He unpacks the real cost of climate action (spoiler: it's not just political will), explains why diversity is a competitive edge, not a quota, and explores how cities can lead where nations stall. We also hear his hopes for using his seat in the House of Lords to amplify urban voices and elevate global city leadership.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we are joined by Michelle Cramer, Principal and Practice Lead Sustainable Communities at Frazer-Nash Consultancy and former Future Communities Leader at GHD. Michelle takes us back to 1980s Canberra, her hometown and one of the world's few planned capitals, where she grew up surrounded by fresh suburbs and bold infrastructure. That experience shaped her conviction that cities aren't just built environments, they're social experiments that shape who we become. Drawing on insights from GHD's global Crossroads report, which surveyed over 10,000 people across ten countries, Michelle explains what different generations want from their cities and how the built environment must evolve to meet those needs. From housing affordability to climate resilience and transport equity, shared priorities emerge, but so do generational divides on technology, sustainability, and optimism. Michelle calls for a rebalancing of power, where younger voices are embedded early, and infrastructure delivers not just utility, but equity.

Samer Bagaeen, professor, urban planner, academic, and city councillor, joins us on The Century of Cities. Samer walks us through a personal and professional timeline of urban transformation, reflecting on his childhood city of Amman in 1980, today's challenges in urban resilience and capacity-building, and what cities might face by 2080. Samer explains the tension between civic needs and public opinion, and the growing gaps in infrastructure and workforce shaping the future of cities. From whispering into mayors' ears to spearheading urban resilience in cities like Rome and Milan, Samer reveals how leadership, political will, and technical capacity intersect to shape cities for generations to come. He advocates for a new kind of civic listening, especially when funds are limited, and makes the case for hyperlocal interventions as building blocks for future-ready cities.

The Century of Cities welcomes Debra Lam, Founding Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation, a regional public-private partnership driving innovation, workforce development, and economic opportunity. Debra challenges the long-held belief that innovation must be high-tech, making the case for low and no-tech approaches that prioritize people, process, and place. Debra offers a bold vision for the future of cities. She shares a powerful case study from Thomasville Heights in Atlanta, where drones and collaborative design helped alleviate energy poverty, and she unpacks the kind of decentralized, inclusive leadership needed to scale this work. Her insights remind us that the future of urban innovation lies not in flashy tech but in thoughtful partnerships, empowered communities, and a relentless focus on equity and access.

In this episode of The Century of the Cities, we are grateful to be joined by Victor Santiago Pineda, a global human rights expert, serial founder, UC Berkeley lecturer, and lifelong advocate for inclusive urban futures. Born into a city that wasn't built for him, Victor shares a deeply personal story of growing up in Caracas in the 1980s, where architectural barriers and social neglect nearly robbed him of an education. Through radical resilience and a commitment to structural change, Victor not only rewrote his future but is also reshaping the future of cities worldwide. From advising the United Nations to launching the Smart Cities for All initiative, Victor has become a leading voice in making accessibility a legal, economic, and design imperative. Victor shares how inclusive innovation isn't a fringe benefit but the very foundation of a thriving city. He explores how technologies initially designed for people with disabilities, such as speech synthesis or alt-text, have powered today's generative AI and digital tools. He also lays out a five-pillar framework for meaningful change, urging city leaders to move beyond compliance and into radical intentionality. By redefining participation, policy, and leadership, Victor explains how to build cities that are barrier-free, frustration-neutral, and rich with untapped human potential.

Eleanor Sharpe, founder of Sharpe Solutions and former interim Deputy Mayor and Director of Planning and Development for the City of Philadelphia, joins us on The Century of Cities. In this bold and deeply personal conversation, Eleanor reflects on Philadelphia's transformation from the post-industrial 1980s to a city defined by "eds and meds," creative resurgence, and continued racial inequities. Drawing from her own life, she unpacks how systemic design, not individual choice, shapes our cities and our neighbourhoods, often in ways we don't realize. Eleanor raises hard questions about education, equity, and who cities are built for. From redlining and racialized land use to calls for planners to actively redress past harms, Eleanor makes the case for a new kind of planning, deliberate, transparent, and deeply community-rooted. As she turns her attention toward her hometown of Kingston, Jamaica, she calls for a bold cultural and civic renaissance built not just on money, but on shared vision.

The Century of Cities welcomes Angelica Nunez, Practice Manager of the Global Programs Unit in the Urban, Resilience, and Land Global Department of the World Bank. With decades of experience in affordable housing and urban finance, Angelica shares a hopeful yet grounded vision for the future, where connectivity, better planning, and smarter housing policies can help cities live up to their promise of opportunity for all. From the explosive growth of cities like Mexico City to the rising urbanization of Africa, Angelica discusses how jobs, housing, and the private sector must work together to shape inclusive, livable, and resilient urban futures. Along the way, she reflects on land value capture, urban mobility as a social equalizer, and what it will take to move from fragmented cities to ones where prosperity is widely shared.

Hiroo Ichikawa, Dean at the Professional Graduate School of Governance Studies, Meiji University, and the visionary behind the Global Power City Index, joins us on The Century of Cities. He reflects on Tokyo's extraordinary arc, from the high-growth optimism of the 1980s through economic stagnation and revitalization to its current role as a quiet powerhouse of global urbanism. As Tokyo prepares for the demographic and economic tests of 2080, we discuss what other cities can learn from its balancing act of growth, resilience, and reinvention. We also explore the inner workings of the GPCI, what it takes to measure urban power, why global rankings shift, and how international events, start-up ecosystems, and cultural connectivity reshape the urban leaderboard.

The Century of Cities welcomes Gautam Bhan, Senior Consultant at the Indian Institute for Human Settlements. Gautam traces India's urban journey from what he calls a "lost decade" to a moment of emergence, while refusing to look away from the deep structural inequalities that persist. He reframes urbanization not as a race for economic growth, but as a shared responsibility to build dignified, equitable futures, rooted in circular economies, local materials, and social fabrics that resist Western templates. Gautam calls for a new kind of leadership, grounded in humility, local wisdom, and the lived experience of cities, and offers a compelling vision of Southern cities looking to each other, not upward, to shape what comes next.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we're joined by Cristina Garrido, CEO of Anteverti, Deputy Curator of the Smart City Expo World Congress, and Founding Director of CitiesToBe.com, to unpack what truly makes a city "smart." From her childhood memories of 1980s Barcelona to leading global conversations on urban innovation, Cristina explains why technology alone isn't enough, and why people, governance, and fearless leadership must take center stage. She explores the evolution of the smart city concept, the rise (and pitfalls) of globalization, and why cities need "studio-like" spaces to experiment and fail forward. Cristina's vision for 2080 is clear: act now, innovate boldly, and always design with people at the core.

Nadia Verjee, Executive Director at Expo City Dubai and former Chief of Staff of Expo 2020 Dubai, whose career has spanned mega-events, global collaboration, and civic storytelling, joins us on The Century of Cities to reflect on the extraordinary task of coordinating 192 nations during a global pandemic. She shares how Expo 2020 became a moment of connection, trust, and shared imagination, sparking the ongoing legacy of Expo City Dubai. As Nadia explains, Dubai isn't just imagining a sustainable future, it's building one from the ground up. With 75,000 people expected to live and work in Expo City, the district is becoming a working model for climate adaptation, pedestrian-first planning, and green tech innovation. Certified as the world's first WELL and LEED-accredited urban district, Expo City is pioneering Dubai's broader walkability ambitions and hosting global events that advance conversations on resilience, equity, and urban innovation. For anyone curious about cities built with care and purpose, Nadia offers a rare glimpse into what it means to shape something truly meaningful for the world.

The Century of Cities welcomes Matthew Glasser, an Urban Law and Policy Analyst and Director for Urban Law and Municipal Finance at the Center for Urban Law and Finance in Africa. With over four decades of experience advising governments across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, Matthew offers a rare look inside the financial architecture that shapes our cities and why national governments so often resist handing over real power to the local level. He shows how decentralization rose as a global policy ideal but often faltered in practice, blocked by political resistance to sharing tax and financial power. Yet when it works, he argues, local autonomy gives cities the tools to fund infrastructure, draw investment, and shape their futures. Glasser goes further, challenging the dominance of GDP-focused development models and making the case for a deeper commitment to equity, transparency, and citizen-led governance. As we design the next century of cities, he reminds us that the hardest work isn't technical, it's political. Building resilient, inclusive cities will require a fundamental shift in mindset, a rebalancing of power, and a clear-eyed understanding of who our urban systems are meant to serve.

Chris Luebkeman, a renowned strategic advisor and Head of Strategic Foresight Hub at ETH Zürich, joins is on The Century of Cities. Chris takes us on a journey from ancient Roman infrastructure to emerging urban futures, to reveal how the spaces we shape, in turn, shape us. With a distinctive blend of warmth, depth, and curiosity, he explores the urgency of embracing complexity, cultivating intergenerational empathy, and abandoning linear thinking in a world defined by layered, compounding challenges. Drawing from his vast experience, Chris introduces the mindset of a possibilist and shares vivid metaphors, including cemeteries and botanical gardens, to reframe how we think about time, legacy, and responsibility. His reflections offer a compelling lens on how to live, plan, and build with humility and long-term perspective.

In this episode of The Century of the Cities, we welcome Sarah Sabry, Global Lead - Urban, at Save the Children International. Sarah explores how cities impact the lives of children and how reimagining urban spaces through their eyes can create better cities for everyone. Sarah highlights the rise in urban inequality, the challenges of slum growth, the effects of climate change, and the digital divide shaping children's experiences today. She shares inspiring global examples of child-friendly city initiatives and stresses the urgent need for a paradigm shift toward cities that prioritize children, caregivers, and sustainability.

George Johnston, Founder and CEO of Tech City Ventures, joins us on The Century of Cities to unpack how exponential technologies are rewriting the urban playbook. From the early days of personal computing to the fast-approaching era of AI, quantum, and sovereign data ecosystems, George says we're shifting from an age of information to an age of wisdom. He introduces the concept of "exponential cities", places powered not just by tech buzzwords but by integrated systems like autonomous vehicles, genomics, and resilient digital infrastructure that drive inclusive and sustainable growth. George also spotlights Madrid, Lisbon, and Barcelona as cities already stepping into this future, and makes a compelling case for why talent, culture, and brand will matter more than infrastructure in determining who leads the way.

The Century of Cities welcomes Hila Oren, CEO of the Tel Aviv Foundation and founder of Tel Aviv Global. A driving force behind Tel Aviv's innovation journey, Hila has redefined what it means to build a social city. From its "nonstop city" branding in the 1980s to a future shaped by climate pressures, cutting-edge tech, and deep communal resilience, Hila shares how Tel Aviv's DNA, rooted in bold founders, hospitality, and relentless energy, continues to shape everything from urban design to social infrastructure. Hila also explores how public spaces can become "pockets of well-being," why cities must confront loneliness as a public health challenge, and how everything from promenades to elevators can be reimagined as places of welcoming human connection.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we welcome Joe Berridge, Partner at Urban Strategies and one of the world's most sought-after city-makers. Joe reveals the secret sauce behind some of the world's most dynamic urban transformations. From Toronto to Manchester, Joe shares candid insights from decades spent shaping global cities' skylines, transit systems, and vibrant downtowns. He explores mega-projects, the myth of perfect planning, and why the best cities aren't built by following a script but by embracing ambition, messiness, and human energy.

Michele Acuto, Pro-Vice Chancellor & Vice President and Professor of Urban Resilience at the University of Bristol, joins The Century of Cities to challenge us to rethink cities as more than just clusters of buildings and infrastructure. He reveals how urban centers wield diplomatic power, drive innovation, and tackle challenges from climate change to public health. From the rise of city diplomacy to unexpected partnerships between local governments and global institutions, Michele offers a fascinating look at why the future of international relations might just be urban. How do mayors, urban planners, and everyday citizens influence global agendas? Why should we pay more attention to the power of city networks? And what lessons can we learn from cities that have led the way in resilience and sustainability?

The Century of Cities welcomes Tim Moonen, Co-Founder & Managing Director of The Business of Cities. Tim traces the profound shifts in urban life, from the 3,000 cities of 1980 to the 10,000 cities shaping today's global economy. Cities have become highly intentional about positioning in a competitive world, adapting to economic globalization, sustainability pressures, and technological advances. Urban governance has moved from being overlooked to becoming a focal point of policy and investment, while businesses increasingly recognize cities as key partners in their success. Tim examines the factors that will define the next urbanization era, including climate adaptation, technological integration, and the evolving role of cities in national and global systems.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we welcome Congressman Earl Blumenauer (Retired), a lawyer, author, and politician who served as the U.S. representative for Oregon's 3rd congressional district from 1996 to January 2025. Portland's bold approach to urban planning, transit, and sustainability has made it a global model for livability. Blumenauer has been at the forefront of this transformation, advocating for policies prioritizing public transportation, cycling, and innovative land use. He takes us from the 1980s to today, exploring how Portland resisted car-centric development, championed streetcars and cycling, and pioneered the nation's first urban growth boundary. Looking ahead to 2080, Earl shares his vision for climate-resilient, people-focused cities and the role of federal leadership in shaping a more sustainable urban future. Please note: Our podcast interview was recorded prior to Representative Blumenauer's retirement.

Uwe S. Brandes, professor of the practice, faculty director of the Urban & Regional Planning Program and faculty director of the Georgetown Global Cities Initiative, joins The Century of Cities to explore the forces shaping urbanization. From the rise of megacities to the impact of climate change, shifting economies, and the evolving role of universities in urban research, Uwe offers a rare long-view perspective on how cities adapt and thrive. Uwe shares insights into Washington, D.C.'s transformation, the global networks influencing urban development, and how cities rethink their built environment for a more resilient future.

The Century of Cities welcomes Enid Slack, Director of the Institute on Municipal Finance and Governance (IMFG) at the University of Toronto School of Cities to unpack Canadian cities' past, present, and future. From Toronto's once-hailed two-tier system to today's mounting financial pressures, she explores the structural challenges cities face, including aging infrastructure, climate change, housing shortages, and the fiscal fallout of remote work. With municipalities bearing the brunt while higher levels of government hold the purse strings, what is the path forward? Enid offers bold insights on new revenue models, rethinking regional governance, and lessons Canada can learn from cities worldwide.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we welcome Dan Hoornweg, Associate Professor at Ontario Tech University and former World Bank lead advisor on sustainable cities and climate change. Dan shares insights from his book, The Halftime Report, which explores 200 years of urbanization, from 1920 to 2120 and what lies ahead for cities worldwide. From the looming peak of global population in 2080 to the seismic shifts in migration patterns driven by climate change, Dan explains how Canada and other northern regions may emerge as key destinations in a rapidly changing world. He challenges us to rethink the role of cities, arguing that they have outlasted countries and will increasingly shape global governance. Dan explores what it will take to prepare for the next phase of urban evolution.

Tom Wright, President and CEO of Regional Plan Association (RPA), the nation's oldest independent metropolitan research, planning, and advocacy organization, joins The Century of Cities to discuss New York's transformation over the decades. He examines how suburbanization, economic downturns, major crises, and urban investments have shaped the city. From its near-collapse in the 1970s to its recovery after 9/11, Superstorm Sandy, and the challenges of COVID-19, he explains the key events that have influenced its growth and resilience. Tom looks ahead to the future of metropolitan regions, emphasizing the importance of regional governance, climate adaptation, and large-scale infrastructure investment. He discusses how congestion pricing, transit expansion, and housing reform will impact NYC by 2080. As cities worldwide navigate critical turning points, New York's experience provides important lessons for the next century of urban development.

The Century of Cities welcomes Angélica Figueroa Valenzuela, an architect, urban planner, and leader in Chile's public sector. She takes us inside the transformation of Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción, cities shaped by economic crises, earthquakes, and bold urban innovations. From tackling housing shortages to building Latin America's largest fleet of electric buses, Chile has shifted its urban focus toward governance, sustainability, and mobility. Distrito Co is at the forefront of this change; the groundbreaking initiative Angélica leads to revitalizing commercial districts through public-private collaboration. She explains how Chile, with its unique scale and strong urban policies, could set the standard for sustainable cities across Latin America.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we're joined by Diana Rodríguez Franco, Special Advisor on Gender and Diversity at the Inter-American Development Bank and former Secretary for Women's Affairs in Bogotá. With nearly two decades of experience in gender equality and human rights, Diana has been at the forefront of rethinking urban spaces to serve women better. One of her most impactful contributions is Bogotá's Care Blocks, a groundbreaking initiative that reimagines city infrastructure by centralizing essential services such as childcare, education, healthcare, and job training. By bringing these resources together in one place, Care Blocks free women from the time constraints of unpaid care work, opening up new opportunities for employment, education, and personal growth. Diana shares how designing cities with women in mind doesn't just improve their lives; it fosters safer, more inclusive, and more equitable urban spaces for all.

Alfonso Vegara, founder and honorary president of Fundación Metropoli and a global leader in urban and regional planning, joins The Century of Cities to share groundbreaking concepts like urban acupuncture, territorial diamonds, and polycentric cities shaping urban development's future. From Spain's urban transformation post-dictatorship to pioneering sustainable projects in Latin America, Asia, and beyond, Alfonso highlights the importance of leadership, collaboration, and innovative planning tools. He also discusses how cities can leverage their unique "components of excellence" to unlock opportunities and foster resilience. With his visionary approach, Alfonso inspires us to think beyond traditional boundaries to create economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable cities.

The Century of Cities welcomes Bárbara Pons Giner, CEO of Barcelona Regional and Commissioner of Strategic Projects and the 2030 Agenda of the Barcelona City Council. She takes us through Barcelona's transformation from its pre-Olympic era to its future as a global leader in urban innovation. A city with a long history of pioneering urbanism, Barcelona is now facing the challenges of balancing its international appeal with local needs. Barbara shares how the city is tackling over-tourism, housing inequality, and climate change while leveraging its assets, like compact design and a vibrant civil society, to pave the way for a sustainable future. With initiatives like the superblock plan and metropolitan development strategies, Barcelona exemplifies how long-term vision and immediate action can coexist to create cities that thrive for generations.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, Geerte Udo, former CEO of amsterdam&partners, shares her insights on Amsterdam's evolution and the challenges of creating a livable, lovable, and prosperous city. From the struggles of the 1980s to today's strategic focus on quality over quantity, Geerte explains how Amsterdam transitioned from a struggling urban center to a thriving, innovative metropolis. She passionately advocates for integrated planning, community-driven visions, and creating cities that inspire through their identity and inclusivity. With her extensive experience in city branding and development, Geerte emphasizes the importance of leveraging a city's unique identity to drive sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

Idoia Postigo, Director General of Bilbao Metropoli-30, joins us for the latest episode of The Century of Cities. Idoia takes us through Bilbao's remarkable transformation. From the industrial collapse and environmental degradation of the 1980s to the city's innovative and collaborative revitalization, she provides an insider's perspective on the bold strategies that helped Bilbao rise again. Drawing on lessons from Bilbao's regeneration, she emphasizes the need for collective dreaming, critical optimism, and a reimagining of urban values. Discover how public-private partnerships, strategic planning, and a shared vision have turned this Basque city into a global example of urban reinvention.

The Century of Cities welcomes Matti Bunzl, an author, anthropologist, and Director of the Wien Museum. Vienna's story is one of dramatic contrasts; once a global cultural powerhouse, it faced decline after two world wars. It hit a low point in 1980 with a dwindling population and limited vibrancy. Matti sheds light on how Vienna reversed its fortunes, transforming into a magnet for international talent through its arts, education, and unique cultural identity. Today, the city boasts a thriving, diverse art scene and is a hub of creativity and innovation. Looking ahead to 2080, Matti shares a compelling vision for Vienna's future. He discusses the challenges of migration, education, and urban planning while highlighting the city's strengths in culture, diplomacy, and historical legacy.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we speak with Jorn Verbeeck, a global sustainability consultant with over 20 years of experience across the public and private sectors. Jorn's journey, from his early days as a journalist to advising the city of Antwerp and tackling global sustainability challenges, offers a unique look at the evolution of urban spaces. Jorn explores how cities like Barcelona and Copenhagen have reshaped themselves, why distributed leadership is critical for long-term urban success, and how the "messy middle" of sustainability connects ambition to action.

Susan Goeransson, a renowned municipal finance expert and former leader at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), joins us for the latest episode of The Century of Cities. Susan shares her remarkable 30-year journey of driving change in urban infrastructure across Central and Eastern Europe, transforming cities through innovative municipal finance and green investment programs. From the challenges of post-Soviet urbanization to the game-changing Green Cities initiative, Susan reflects on reform-driven mayors, actionable funding strategies and the critical role of cities in addressing climate change, fostering social impact, and improving municipal services.

The Century of the Cities welcomes André Sobczak, the Secretary General of Eurocities, the leading network of over 200 European cities. André shares a compelling story of urban evolution, from the formation of Eurocities in the 1980s to the pivotal role cities now play in tackling climate change, social inclusion, and housing crises. Discover how European mayors are shaping the future through collaboration, resilience, and governance reform, ensuring urban areas remain vibrant and sustainable hubs of innovation. André also reflects on the leadership qualities necessary for urban transformation, the importance of connecting local and supranational governance, and his optimistic vision for cities in 2080.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we sit down with Hitesh Vaidya, an esteemed urban strategist and member of the Kerala Urban Policy Commission. Hitesh traces India's remarkable journey from its rural roots in 1980 to a visionary 2080, where cities are projected to drive 80% of the GDP. He offers compelling insights into the rise of second-tier cities, the development of industrial corridors, and transformative smart urban policies. Plus, he introduces his innovative "I3 = E3" framework, a holistic approach blending innovation, inclusion, and environmental balance to shape the future of urbanization.

Bimal Patel is a renowned architect, urbanist, and former president of CEPT University who joins us for the latest episode of The Century of Cities. He takes us through India's economic and urban evolution, from the stagnation of the 1980s to the liberalization of the 1990s, when cities started to be recognized as essential engines of economic growth. Bimal discusses India's unique suburban morphology of its cities and the urgent need for governance reforms that empower cities to manage their development. Looking ahead to 2080, he envisions cities as engineered ecosystems akin to spacecraft, self-sustaining, efficient, and capable of meeting the demands of dense urban populations. Bimal shares how India can reimagine its urban future while balancing economic growth, sustainable development, and livability for all.

The Century of Cities welcomes Sheela Patel, director of the Society for Promotion of Area Resource Centres (SPARC), who shares decades of experience working with urban low-income communities in India. From the evolution of women's collectives to the systemic barriers of urbanization, Sheela offers an intimate look at how grassroots efforts have reshaped housing and infrastructure policy. Her career spans nearly 50 years, offering rich insights into how empowering women and inclusive strategies have driven sustainable change in urban landscapes.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, we sit down with Barjor Mehta, President of CEPT University and former Lead Urban Specialist at the World Bank, to explore India's journey through urbanization. Barjor reflects on the missteps of the 1980s, the turning point of the 1990s, and the opportunities and challenges ahead as India becomes a higher-middle-income country by 2080. From the rise of new urban corridors to the governance gaps that hinder cities, Barjor shares a candid perspective on what it will take to empower local governments, build resilient systems, and embrace urbanization as a driver of prosperity. He also discusses the optimism of India's next generation and how they're shaping the future of cities with new skills and global ambitions.

Vidyadhar Phatak is a legendary figure in urban planning with a career spanning 57 years who joins us on the latest episode of The Century of Cities. As the former Dean of CEPT University and Chief Planner at the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Vidyadhar explores the challenges and opportunities of rapid urbanization, the shifting growth dynamics from colonial port cities to emerging IT hubs like Bangalore and Hyderabad, and what it will take for cities like Mumbai to remain globally competitive. Looking ahead to 2080, Vidyadhar envisions a future shaped by economic growth, technology, and a fresh perspective on urban governance.

The Century of Cities features Chan Heng Chee, Ambassador-at-Large for Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as she charts the remarkable transformation of this city-state. From its rapid urbanization in the 1980s to its emergence as a global hub of innovation and resilience, Chan Heng Chee reveals the strategies behind Singapore's success, from pioneering public housing to harnessing technology and fostering public trust. Looking ahead to 2080, she offers a bold vision for navigating demographic shifts, integrating AI into urban management, and confronting climate challenges. Discover Singapore's lessons to cities worldwide and the innovative solutions that could redefine urban living in an era of rapid change.

The Century of the Cities welcomes Esther An, Chief Sustainability Officer of City Developments Limited. Esther shares invaluable insights on how Southeast Asia has transformed over the decades through rapid urbanization, economic collaboration, and groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. She digs into Singapore's leadership in climate resilience, urban planning, and the ASEAN region's efforts to tackle rising sea levels and carbon emissions. Esther highlights the significance of creating "cities in nature" and shares strategies addressing food security, housing, and sustainable growth. Esther also reveals how ASEAN member states are pioneering solutions for a thriving, sustainable future.

Welcome to The Century of Cities Long-Lost Bonus Episode! Join hosts Professor Greg Clark and Jennifer Dolynchuk as they dive into the transformative evolution of urbanization from 1980 to 2080. Did you know that in 1980, just over 40% of humanity lived in cities, and by 2080, that number is projected to reach 80%? Or that the urban population will grow from 2.3 billion to an estimated 9.2 billion, with cities with over 1 million people skyrocketing from 275 to 1,600? Greg shares these staggering statistics and more, taking listeners on a fascinating tour of the world to explore how regions from Europe to Sub-Saharan Africa are experiencing urbanization differently. Jen reflects on the cultural, technological, and environmental changes driving this urban transformation. Together, they kick off a global tour of insights with 100 guests to uncover what makes good urbanization and how we can shape a better future.

The Century of the Cities welcomes His Excellency Fahd Al-Rasheed, General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His Excellency takes us on a journey from 1980 to 2080, redefining how we view cities as places to live. From the concept of "cities as products" to the critical need for leadership that blends political savvy, CEO acumen, and urban expertise, this conversation uncovers the ingredients for cities that unleash human potential. His Excellency shares insights into the challenges of rapid urbanization, the importance of strategic planning before master planning, and the revolutionary idea of training city leaders with an "MCA," a Master's in City Administration. With personal anecdotes and forward-looking strategies, His Excellency inspires us to rethink the role of cities in shaping our collective future.

Rob Adams, an Architect and Urban Designer who has shaped Melbourne into one of the world's most livable cities, joins us on The Century of Cities. Over four decades, Rob's vision has transformed Melbourne from a declining city into a vibrant, 24-hour hub with thriving streets, lush green spaces, and a bustling residential population. Rob shares the story of Melbourne's turnaround, the creation of the Postcode 3000 program, and the city's evolution into a Central Activities District. He explores the global challenge of sustainable urban growth and how lessons from Melbourne can inform the future of cities worldwide. Rob offers practical insights for creating environmentally sustainable and socially cohesive urban spaces, from reducing car dependency and optimizing existing infrastructure to fostering community-driven solutions.

The Century of the Cities welcomes Peter Newman, an environmental scientist, urban planner, and sustainability professor at Curtin University in Perth, Australia. Peter reflects on his groundbreaking work combating car dependence in cities, starting with his advocacy during the first oil crisis in the 1980s. He shares insights into the evolution of urban transport systems, the importance of transit-oriented urbanism, and the power of mega-rail projects to shape sustainable city corridors. Peter's passion for creating walkable, accessible cities resonates as he discusses the economic and social transformations needed to transition from car-centric to car-free urban landscapes.

In this episode of The Century of Cities, Professor Barbara Norman, a global authority on sustainable urban planning, climate change adaptation, and urban governance, joins us. From her pioneering work revitalizing Melbourne's Docklands to shaping national climate policy, Barbara shares her compelling insights into how cities have evolved since the 1980s and her optimistic vision for Australia's urban future. She highlights the critical intersections of First Nations knowledge, climate resilience, and the rise of the Global South. Barbara also discusses the challenges of climate-induced resettlement and the bold planning needed to accommodate a growing population while safeguarding equity and sustainability. She outlines how integrating climate science into urban planning can transform cities into resilient, inclusive spaces.