Camila Rodriguez Rey

I attribute my success to starting my career by working directly with communities in vulnerable neighborhoods. That experience shaped how I see cities—not as abstract systems, but as lived places shaped by people’s daily realities. It taught me to listen first, to work with humility, and to design with, not for, communities.

Over time, I learned how to pair that people-centered mindset with strong technical skills in urban planning, design, and policy. I’m able to move between community conversations and institutional frameworks, translating local needs into strategies that cities and organizations can actually implement. My success comes from that balance—empathy and rigor, vision and execution—and from consistently showing up with curiosity, accountability, and a deep commitment to creating positive change in the built environment.

The best career advice I ever received was to stay close to the work and the people it affects, especially as my career progressed. Early on, I was told that titles, visibility, and recognition matter far less than credibility—earned by listening well, doing the work thoughtfully, and following through.

That advice helped me resist chasing roles that looked impressive on paper but pulled me away from impact. Instead, I’ve focused on building trust with communities, collaborators, and institutions, knowing that long-term influence comes from consistency, integrity, and a willingness to learn at every stage.

I would tell young women not to be afraid to pursue what they truly love. Trust yourself, even when the path isn’t obvious or linear. Stay connected to your own desires and values, and be honest—with yourself and with others—about what matters to you.

This field needs more voices that lead with authenticity, empathy, and conviction. When you allow yourself to show up fully and honestly, your work becomes stronger, more meaningful, and more impactful.

One of the biggest challenges in urban planning today is translating ambitious goals around equity, climate resilience, and inclusion into real, on-the-ground change. Too often there’s a gap between policy and lived experience. At the same time, this presents a major opportunity: to design more participatory, climate-responsive, and people-centered cities by aligning community voices, policy frameworks, and implementation from the start.

The values most important to me are integrity, empathy, and honesty. In my work, that means listening deeply, being accountable to the communities I work with, and making decisions that align with both my professional responsibilities and my personal values. In my personal life, it means staying connected to what truly matters to me, acting with care and intention, and building relationships based on trust and respect.

Ultimately, I believe meaningful work and a meaningful life are built on the same foundation: being honest with yourself, treating others with dignity, and showing up consistently with purpose and compassion.