Keynote Speakers

We are pleased to welcome our keynote speakers to this year’s conference. Their expertise and insights will provide valuable perspectives on Trade-offs in planning. Join us as they share their knowledge and experiences to inform, inspire, and drive meaningful discussions.

Collin Ellard

Colin Ellard is a cognitive neuroscientist exploring how built and natural spaces influence movement, emotion, and wellbeing. Collaborating with architects, planners, and artists, he studies wayfinding, residential design, and restorative environments using field research and virtual simulations.

Tanya Chung-Tiam-Fook

Tanya Chung-Tiam-Fook is the co-holder of 7GenCities with Evergreen and the Mi’kmaq Native Friendship Centre; project advisor at Dark Matter Labs and for numerous Indigenous, philanthropy and non-profit organizations; and a part-time lecturer in environmental and urban studies. She is deeply engaged in Indigenous, environmental, transdisciplinary and trans-systemic approaches to education, research and writing; land relationships and stewardship; climate and ecological resilience; placekeeping and civic innovation; healing justice and community wellbeing.

Paul Kershaw

Dr. Paul Kershaw is a UBC professor, policy expert, and founder of Generation Squeeze, advocating for generational fairness in housing, health, and climate policy. An award-winning scholar and media contributor, his work has shaped major policy changes, including housing reforms, childcare investments, and climate action.