Somos Group’s Post

After taking a day to reflect post-conference, I’m still at a loss for words to fully express how inspired and recharged I feel after wrapping up American Planning Association #NPC25. It was an honor to speak at two sessions and contribute to the conference’s success, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my insights. #NPC25 wasn’t just about learning—it was about reconnecting with long-time friends in the profession and forging new connections. Like many who attended, I’ll continue to process and reflect on the incredible ideas shared about advancing the planning profession. A heartfelt thank you to my fellow panelists— Daisy Marquez, AICP, James Rojas, and Leonor Vanik—for shining a light on best practices for engaging Latino communities. It was a privilege to present the Latinos in Planning Division Inclusive Engagement Guide - a true labor of love created by so many dedicated individuals that mirrors the inclusive ethos of serving disadvantaged communities I strive for in my work with Somos Group. The conference also offered to connect with my fellow Latinos in Planning division members, some who I've meet in person for the first time despite knowing for years: Daniel Besinaiz, Marco Hinojosa, AICP, Consuelo Arguilles, AICP, Rosa Y. Ortiz, AICP, LEED AP, Gabriela Juarez, AICP, Vidal Marquez, Matthew Gomez, Carlo Chunga Pizarro, Daniel Leal, AICP, Assoc.AIA. Thankful for the new connections I've made: Carlos I., Manuel Ochoa, Jessica Fields, PE, AICP, Noah Robles, Oscar Abello, Pascal Fuhr and finally catching up with folks like Nader Afzalan, Ph.D., Albert Casillas, AICP and Jonathan T. who its felt like years since we've chatted. It was great to bring Adrian N. Carver into the fold and connect with planners from back home in New Mexico. And laughing and scheming on evolving planning with the likes of Eric Shaw and Jose Richard Aviles. And of course, to my APA California tribe, who showed up in full force: your support and camaraderie continue to shape my career: Carey Fernandes, AICP, Hing Wong, FAICP, Reuben Duarte, Desmond Corley, AICP, Allison Joe, Elizabeth Tyler, Ph.D., FAICP, Julia Lave Johnston, Brian Mooney FAICP, Hanson Hom, FAICP, Robert Narvaez, AICP, Miroo Desai. Last but certainly not least, a huge thank-you to Miguel Angel Vazquez, FAICP - a mentor to many of us who consistently goes above and beyond. Here's to next year! #ItTakesAPlanner