2024 has been another extraordinary year for the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP), and as I reflect on it, I am filled with immense gratitude. This year was not only about the events we attended or the initiatives we launched; it was about the connections, the stories, and the incredible individuals who made it all so impactful.

2024 memories with Dy Currie (CAP), Remy Sietchiping (UN Habitat), Lindsey Richards (RTPI), Elisabeth Belpaire (ISOCARP), Angela Brooks (APA), Lance Brown (HPF), Mona Rady (HPF), Will Steel (CAP), Olafiyin Taiwo (CAP), Beatrice Crabb (GPN), Ifeanyi Chukwujekwu (CAP), Frank D’Hondt (ISOCARP), Victoria Hills (RTPI), Barbara Norman (P4CA), Will Bramwell (ACU).

One of the standout moments for me was the relaunch of BEPIC (Built Environment Professionals in the Commonwealth) on World Environment Day. Together with Peter Oborn (CAA), Dawn Bonfield (CEC), and James Kavanagh (CASLE), we have been continuously brainstorming how we can better align architects, planners, surveyors, and engineers to address climate change and urbanisation challenges collectively. BEPIC serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and how we can work across disciplines, to create solutions far greater than anything we could achieve alone.

Another highlight was our Urban Thinkers Campus, co-hosted by CAP and P4CA, where we convened an exceptional international panel to brainstorm innovative solutions to the global housing crisis. I had the honour of moderating the session alongside Bruce Stiftel, and together we witnessed the wealth of creative ideas and actionable strategies emerging from planners worldwide.

Some of my personal highlights in 2024 included contributing to the Commonwealth Local Government Forum on Gendered Cities, attending the Planning Africa Conference hosted by SAPI, engaging in discussions during UN-Habitat’s Urban Law Day on 4th July, and participating in the pre-CHOGM reception at St. James’s Palace on 2nd October, hosted by Their Majesties the King and Queen. It was a perfect opportunity in London to connect with our RTPI and GPN colleagues.

Meeting with RPTI and CAP friends (Beatric Crabb, Jua Cilliers, Olafiyin Taiwo)

SAPI Conference with the SAPI Exec Team and CAP rep Luke Williams

The World Urban Forum in Cairo was the cherry on top of a remarkable year. CAP contributed to insightful sessions, from North-South Housing Discussions to advancing planning education. It was an absolute pleasure to share this time with so many of our CAP partners and members, enjoying both the engaging discussions and lighter moments together. A particular highlight was celebrating the announcement that Eleanor Mohammed will take the helm as Chair of HPF!  The list of photo credits and cherished memories is long, but a huge thank you to everyone who made these connections and experiences so special.

Panel members of the Future Foundations session, including Lindsey Richards (RTPI), Angela Brooks (APA), Robert Lewis-Lettington (UN Habitat), Anna Konotchick (Habitat For Humanity), Paulo Silva (GPEAN), Bruce Stiftel (P4CA), Jua Cilliers (CAP)

Planners at the World Urban Forum in Cairo! With Lindsey Richards (RTPI), Beatrice Crabb (GPN), Elisabeth Belpaire (ISOCARP), Frank D’hondt (ISOCARP), Markus Appenzeller (ISOCARP), Angela Brooks (APA), Victoria Hills (RTPI), Luisa Bravo, Petra Hurtado. 

Panel members of the Transforming Education session with Peter Oborn (CAA), Paulo Silva (GPEAN), Hassan Radoine (UM6P), Olafiyin Taiwo (CAP), Aline Roldan (UN Habitat).

Of course, no reflection on 2024 would be complete without acknowledging the steadfast support of our member organisations. Our focus has always been on amplifying the remarkable work being done across the Commonwealth. Thank you for your incredible efforts and dedication every single day. Your unwavering commitment makes CAP’s achievements possible. To those I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with this year: you’ve inspired me, challenged me, and reminded me of the boundless potential within this community. A special mention to Kelley, our marvellous Secretary General, and our outstanding Board of Trustees — thank you for supporting both me and CAP every step of the way.

As we close the chapter on 2024, I am filled with optimism for what lies ahead. Together, we will continue to advocate, innovate, and build a sustainable future for urban planning across the Commonwealth. Here’s to the journey ahead!

CAP assemblies 2024

Warm planning regards,

Jua Cilliers

President, Commonwealth Association of Planners