2020: A Year of Pivoting

It’s an understatement to say that 2020 has been a challenging year. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted nearly every aspect of our lives and made us question how we do things. It has shed light on many inadequacies that exist and has exacerbated existing inequalities for those most marginalized and vulnerable in our society.  It has also shown us that we need each other, that six feet of distance is not enough to keep us apart and that both as individuals and as communities, we are incredibly adaptable.  

For the planning profession, it has presented an opportunity to redefine the role of planners in Ontario, to remain resilient, and be a vital part of the solution in recovery and re-connecting Ontario’s communities. Planners are change agents. We know change is inevitable and times of significant disruption are excellent opportunities to develop new behaviours and sustainable ways of life. We are living a historic moment of change, and we, as professional planners, have an important role in guiding that change to ensure it benefits those that need it the most and sets up future generations for success. 

Since the start of this year, we have learned a lot about ourselves and those around us, yet we know there is so much more to learn. This year’s conference will look and feel a little different, but will be a critical time to come together, network, listen, learn and lead. Please join the conversation on September 23rd, 30th, October 7th and 14th, for OPPI20, our virtual conference.  

I would also like to invite you to participate in OPPI's Annual General Meeting on October 7, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. to reflect on the year, where we have come from and where we are going as a profession. 

These are challenging times. Let's come together to support each other so that we can come out of this stronger, more compassionate, and with new, sustainable behaviours that will leave a positive imprint on the planning profession and in communities across Ontario. 

I look forward to seeing you online at OPPI's 2020 Annual General Meeting to reflect on 2020, a year of change. 

Justine Giancola, RPP, MCIP
President, Ontario Professional Planners Institute