After completing her planning degree at the University of Saskatchewan, Yolanda Lew, like many other graduates, found herself migrating to Alberta for a good job opportunity.
She started her career in Strathcona County, where she held several roles – from an Information Officer to a Development Officer to a Long Range Planner. Yolanda would later join the City of Edmonton as a planner in the Current Planning and Housing Sections. In 2009, she moved over to Stantec, where she currently serves as their Planning Lead and Practice Lead for the Community Development Team.
These range of planning experiences she has had the opportunity to work on, Yolanda says, would most likely not have happened in any other city outside of Alberta.
“There are not a lot of places, where in one day you can be working on a brand new arena and entertainment district downtown, and a new neighbourhood plan in a greenfield area,” she reflected.
Yolanda has worked on planning new neighbourhoods, rezonings, and subdivisions in areas like Bremner, Horse Hill, Riverview, Windermere, Heritage Valley, and Southeast to name a few. She has also worked on infill applications for mixed-use developments including ICE District, Winspear Expansion Project, and the Mercury Block.
Lew was inspired to support others emerging in their practice and profession. She joined UDI and supported the New Horizons initiative, which was created to bring together young professionals and provide a platform for learning and networking.
“If you want to meet someone in the industry and learn – where do you go?” Lew asked.
“New Horizons is a space for those starting out in the industry to connect with others new to the industry, as well as those already established.”
Since joining the New Horizons Committee, she helped to expand its range of programming – from monthly presentations to mentorship events to expanded golf tournaments. Because of this, she is this year’s recipient of the Outstanding Industry Contribution Award.
Come celebrate Yolanda and her achievements at the 23rd Annual Spirit Awards.