Friday Special Blend
Friday March 3rd, 2023 with Friday Blend team
Catherine McKenney talks CitySHAPES (a Synapcity Community Conversations special edition)

In today's episode, we're delighted to share Synapcity's Community Connections session on the Friday Blend. Today's edition premiers the Change Maker Series, featuring Catherine McKenney, who has recently transitioned from time in office to leading a dynamic national non-profit looking to reshape how we think about cities. We chatted with Catherine about their two terms, life after elected office and their new project CitySHAPES. About Catherine: First elected as City Councillor in 2014, Catherine was re-elected as Councillor in 2018. Catherine is committed to improving life for everyone in their community, including more affordable housing, better transit, more trees, streets that are built for people, better public spaces, protecting our heritage, and supporting local business. Catherine previously worked for City Councillors Alex Munter and Diane Holmes and later for MPs Ed Broadbent and Paul Dewar. They returned to City Hall as special assistant to the Deputy City Manager. Catherine trains regularly for and competes in cross-country and ultramarathon running. They cycle year-round, walk to work, support local independent businesses, and is the proud adoptive parent of four Humane Society animals. They are also an avid volunteer. CitySHAPES is the next chapter in Catherine McKenney's work to shape the cities we deserve, taken from their experience as senior staff and two-term City Councillor for the City of Ottawa. Catherine is joined by Neil Saravanamuttoo, former chief economist of the G20’s Global Infrastructure Hub and Finance Canada executive.