Rafaela Thermidor
Rafaela Thermidor is an accomplished urban planner with a strong background in sustainable design and community-focused development. She currently serves as an Urban Planner for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, where she applies her expertise in negotiation, computer-aided design, and leadership to support the tribe’s growth and development initiatives. Rafaela began her professional journey in city planning with roles at the City of Deerfield Beach, City of West Palm Beach, and City of Miramar, where she gained experience in historic reviews, permitting, and zoning compliance while advocating for community engagement and inclusive urban development.
Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Arts in City/Urban, Community, and Regional Planning from Florida Atlantic University and a Master of Architecture in Sustainable Design from the University of Florida. These qualifications, combined with her passion for creating equitable and resilient urban spaces, have enabled her to approach planning with a focus on social inclusion, climate adaptation, and human-centered design. Rafaela emphasizes the importance of designing cities that balance technical solutions with the lived experiences and needs of residents.
Rafaela’s work reflects her commitment to inclusive and sustainable urban planning, bridging the gap between what cities “can be” and what they currently deliver. She actively promotes policies and designs that prioritize affordable housing, accessible public transportation, safe public spaces, and environmental stewardship. Known for her analytical skills and dedication to community involvement, Rafaela continues to influence urban planning practices that foster livable, equitable, and resilient communities across Florida.
• Florida Atlantic University- B.A.
• University of Florida- M.Arch.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance of two key mentors, Angela Jones from the City of West Palm and Michael Albert from Miramar, who invested their time in teaching me as a new graduate, and to the opportunities I gained during my time at FAU, including an internship that shaped my career path in urban planning.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering urban planning is to be patient and persistent—especially in the public sector, where political factors can slow progress—and to seek out mentorship, as learning from experienced planners can shape your career in invaluable ways.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are compassion and service, which I practice through volunteering at a homeless shelter and supporting my community.