Her Story
About Suvidha
Suvidha Bandi is an experienced urban planning and community development professional in her 20th year with the City of Houston Planning and Development Department in local government. She currently serves as Division Manager, leading a team that reviews development applications for compliance with city ordinances and presents recommendations to the Planning Commission every two weeks. Her background includes research, leadership, city planning, and community development, supported by a Master's degree in City and Regional Planning from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from India. She is AICP certified and a member of the American Planning Association. Suvidha led the ordinance changes through the Livable Places project, earning awards from the Texas APA and Houston APA for her efforts in public engagement and regulatory amendments. She attributes her success to a desire to make a difference by serving the public and resolving property issues, finding motivation in the unique story and challenges of each project.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Suvidha
01What do you attribute your success to?
My motivation was to make a difference, to be part of something bigger, to really contribute to something bigger. Serving the public and helping resolve property issues motivates me daily. Every project has a story and challenges that keep the work engaging.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice was to get AICP certified. Kim Mickelson always pushed me to get certified, and after doing it after 15 years it was a proud moment and keeps me learning new ideas in planning.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be focused about where your interest lies. Learn your work environment and always be in the learning mode throughout your life. Watch others and grow from that.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is very important. Own up to mistakes, acknowledge them, learn and grow from them. Include the team in solutions so it becomes a learning experience.
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