African in the Anthropocene is a storytelling project. In a time of instability and dramatic  change, of fragile and often degenerating ecosystems, our need for stories is greater than ever; in particular, we need African perspectives that are severely underrepresented in global discourses. 

Led a research project with the IOM Durable Solutions and Resilience unit, USAID Scaling Solutions, and UN-Habitat on urban responses to climate- and conflict-driven displacement in Somalia. Collaborated with national ministries and city governments to create two localized guidebooks for authorities to develop city and territorial development strategies for local integration of displaced people and climate-resilient spatial plans, train local and regional authorities, and scale the approach. Piloting on hold due to USAID cuts. 

Reports I wrote for the Mathare Social Justice Centre using data gathered by community researchers in Mathare (one of the largest informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya).

I convened and moderated this side event at the Africa Climate Summit. For the panel discussion, I convened an important cross-section of parties involved in informal settlement upgrading in Nairobi, a city that is pioneering groundbreaking practices for integrated, inclusive and pro-poor planning. We discussed whether upgrading is climate adaptation and what the opportunities, challenges and risks are when translating key strategies used in the Mukuru Special Planning Area to other settlements in Nairobi and cities across Africa. 

The dialogue brought together grassroots activists, students, practitioners and academics to interrogate how Africa features in global theory on and policy practices of climate change and related phenomena, including the Anthropocene and “green transitions.” 

Led a research project for the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) in partnership with the Akiba Mashinani Trust (AMT) and Slum Dwellers International–Kenya to learn from the Special Planning Area (SPA) in Mukuru, one of the largest informal settlements in Nairobi (Kenya), about strategies for locally-led, inclusive and multisectoral upgrading for climate resilience. Produced a guide and seven videos with methodologies and best practices for local governments, civil society and funders in cities across Africa via the AfDB’s Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program.

Led an exploratory research project on climate-displaced people living in Kenya’s informal settlements.

How might we reimagine Los Angeles County’s commercial boulevards to address critical housing shortages and mobility challenges?

Large-scale corridors growth study in Central Ohio.

Regional growth scenarios for Chongqing, China. Developed as part of a World Bank report. 

My UCLA Master's thesis, examining the role of charter schools in neighborhood change in Los Angeles, California.

A sectoral analysis of charter schools expansion, investment, and outcomes in Los Angeles.

Analysis of the regulatory and built environment in the Los Angeles Fashion District, along with policy recommendations. 

Animated short films in English and Spanish about the South and Southeast Los Angeles Community Plans

A web GIS platform built as a class project, designed to enable residents to map infrastructural assets and deficits. 

Analysis of the built environment in the Culver City Arts District, along with policy recommendations. 

Manuals developed to support community food security projects in Honduras. 

Petition to the Honduran national government for a rural community health center.