How do we create neighbourhoods that remind us of our deep connection to the land, waters, and sun? Where natural systems inspire urban design? And where ecology blends into the cultural fabric of the community? Keynote speaker Margie Ruddick, award-winning landscape designer and author of Wild by Design, talks about strategies for creating life-enhancing landscapes that combine ecological function with design.

The theme of "Respect the Land" will be introduced by Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, one of the most important landscape architects of the modern era.

Inspire Jericho Talks is a speaker series to share inspiration, spark ideas, and explore the possibilities for the Jericho Lands redevelopment. At the first Inspire Jericho Talk, Creating Great Neighbourhoods, Charles Montgomery explored the profound effect of the ways we design our neighbourhoods and cities has on health, happiness, and inclusiveness. On May 23, Jeff Speck will shine a spotlight on how to design neighbourhoods to support walking, biking, and transit at the second Inspire Jericho Talks: Connected Communities. Future Inspire Jericho Talks will also cover the theme of "Indigenous Inspiration".

About Margie Ruddick
Margie Ruddick is an award-winning landscape designer and author who is recognized for her pioneering, environmental approach to urban landscape design through her innovative integration of ecology, urban planning, and culture. In her book, Wild by Design: Strategies for Creating Life-Enhancing Landscapes, she shares her insights for creating beautiful, healthy landscapes that reconnect people with larger natural systems.