Building inclusive communities and inspiring the next generation of planners
By: Raya Soltani | Estimated reading time: 2:30
Registered professional planner Eldon Theodore (BES ‘02)
Eldon Theodore (BES ‘02), a partner at MHBC and a registered professional planner, has over 20 years of experience specializing in land use planning, urban design and sustainability. With a BES in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Waterloo and a master's in urban design studies from the University of Toronto, Eldon’s educational background laid a solid foundation for his impactful career.
Eldon is a full member of the Canadian Institute of Planners and a registered professional planner. He served as a Director for the Ontario Professional Planners Institute and the Design Industry Advisory Committee of Toronto, and currently serves as a Director for the Black Planners and Urbanists Association. He is also a longstanding member of the University of Waterloo Planning Alumni of Toronto. His design background includes providing design and sustainable development services to public and private sector clients across Ontario, applying urban design and sustainable initiatives through policy preparation, site design analysis, community visioning, design briefs, and community design guidelines. He is also trained in conducting intensive design charrettes to create value in communities.
Eldon’s land use planning experience includes obtaining development approvals (Subdivisions, Condominiums, Site Plans, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments, Consents, and Minor Variances), project coordination and management, special studies and research, expert witness at the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, and presentations to Committees, Council, and the public.
Reflecting on his journey, Eldon’s advice to students and young professionals is clear: “Small actions can have an impact; find a way to return the charity that others have shown to you.” He emphasizes the significance of volunteerism and philanthropy in building a supportive and inclusive community.
Eldon understood from his personal experiences that the path to becoming a planner is plagued with many obstacles, especially financially for Black and Indigenous students. He recognized a responsibility to affect change in this area. Through his leadership and the support of his fellow partners, MHBC established the MHBC Award for Black and Indigenous Students.
Eldon hopes this award will support the next generation of planners in their professional journeys, ensuring that diverse voices are included and empowered. "It is always important to give back, share what you have learned, and make time for those coming up in our profession. Even a little bit of guidance can go a long way."
Eldon’s journey from a student discovering his passion to a respected urban planner and advocate for future professionals exemplifies the power of determination, hard work, and generosity in making a positive impact on the world of urban design and planning. For these reasons he was awarded the 2024 Friend of the Faculty award.
