Book Launch for ‘Women Changing Cities: Global Stories of Urban Transformation’ set for Vancouver October 9th
A Parisian street that has undergone significant changes as part of the city’s “rues aux écoles” (school streets) programme in 2019, implemented by Mayor Anne Hidalgo, to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists. Photo taken by Nicole Roach.
What does it take to build cities that truly work for everyone? Around the world, women leaders have been answering that question not in theory, but through action: reclaiming streets, reimagining mobility, and reshaping public spaces so they’re safer, more inclusive, and more resilient. These are the everyday acts of courage and creativity that change how cities breathe and belong. Yet too often, these stories remain untold.
This October, Women in Urbanism Canada and Voor Urban Labs are thrilled to welcome celebrated authors and urban mobility advocates Melissa and Chris Bruntlett back to Vancouver — a fitting place to spotlight voices too often left unheard. Originally from Vancouver, Melissa and Chris moved with their two children to Delft, Netherlands, in 2019. Their first book, Building the Cycling City, showed how Dutch transport planning offers lessons for communities worldwide. Today, Melissa leads Modacity Creative, while Chris works with the Dutch Cycling Embassy. Together, they continue to share how people-first design — whether in Delft, Vancouver, or beyond - transforms not just streets, but daily life.
Authors Melissa and Chris Bruntlett. Image credit: Modacity
Their return to Vancouver this fall is especially meaningful: On October 9, the city will host the very first launch of Women Changing Cities. The event will bring together Melissa and Chris, with speakers from Women in Urbanism Canada, Women Transforming Cities, and SFU Urban Studies. Alongside author readings, the program will include a networking reception, and a discussion with the authors on how centering women’s priorities can transform urban planning. This book launch is part of a full week of events across Metro Vancouver, connecting local and global conversations on building cities that work for everyone. Check out the “A Week of Learning with the Bruntletts” Eventbrite page to register for other events.
Women Changing Cities Book Launch event banner. Image credit: Voor Urban Labs
So what can readers expect from the book itself? Women Changing Cities amplifies the voices of 19 women who have reshaped 10 cities around the world - from Barcelona to Bogota, Kampala to Montreal, and beyond. Their leadership has transformed transportation, housing, public space and climate resilience, showing what’s possible when women are given the chance to lead.
As the Bruntletts write:
“It’s important to provide leaders, professionals, academics and advocates with concrete cases of how women are directing urban transformations... and how these projects actively improve the quality of life and access to the city for every citizen. Only when women are given a seat at the decision-making table are these kinds of actions first identified, solutions established and adopted, and the potential of a more just and sustainable city ultimately realized.”
We resonate with this vision at Women in Urbanism Canada. According to Bita Jamalpour, Vice-Chair of Women in Urbanism Canada and event speaker:
“We have always believed that when women are trusted with decision-making power, real solutions emerge, everyday life improves, and the path to more just and sustainable cities becomes visible. This book is the evidence. And this launch in Vancouver is meaningful to Women in Urbanism Canada because it connects our local struggles to a global movement, reminding us that equity in urban planning is not optional - it is essential to every citizen’s right to the city.”
This is more than just a book launch - it is a recognition of women’s courage to lead, to dream, and to insist on cities where everyone can belong. Whether you’re a planner, researcher, urban designer, advocate, or a student, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with new ideas to shape your work and community. Join us to celebrate, connect, and continue building cities that work for everyone.
Details
Date & Time: Thursday, October 9, 2025, 7-9pm (doors/networking from 6:30pm)
Location: Challenge Theatre (Room 1900), SFU Harbour Centre, 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver
Tea and coffee will be served. Signed copies of Women Changing Cities will also be available for purchase.
Tickets start at $11, with discounted group rates.
