Recently, UKREiiF had the opportunity to sit down with Luci Birtwhistle, a fourth-year town planning student at Leeds Beckett University. The discussion centred around Luci’s experiences with UKREiiF and the organisation’s dedication to uplifting young professionals in the industry.

UKREiiF: Luci, could you introduce yourself to our readers?

Luci: I’m Luci Birtwhistle, pursuing town planning at Leeds Beckett University. My passion for this field started through my hands-on experiences at Leeds City Council’s policy planning department and a strong commitment to community engagement.

UKREiiF: How did your association with UKREiiF begin in 2023?

Luci: My journey with UKREiiF started when Lauren from Common Place reached out. She offered me a speaking role at the event. It was a unique opportunity to highlight the importance of community engagement, especially from a younger perspective.

UKREiiF: Could you share your aspirations in the realm of town planning?

i: Certainly. I have a diverse vision for my career. While policy planning fascinates me, I’m equally passionate about master planning and design. My ultimate aim is to envision and develop sustainable spaces for future generations. My experiences at Leeds City Council played a pivotal role in shaping this vision.

UKREiiF: How did you feel leading up to your involvement with UKREiiF?

Luci: I was nervous, considering it was among my first significant presentations. But the camaraderie and support from the UKREiiF community was brilliant. Their encouragement and the inspiring atmosphere truly made me feel welcomed and valued.

UKREiiF: How has UKREiiF influenced your career path, and can you tell us about the job proposal you received?

Luci: The entire experience was transformative for my career. It not only boosted my confidence but also broadened my perspective on the industry. The strong presence of women at UKREiiF was particularly inspiring. Furthermore, the focus on collaboration and networking emphasised the significance of building inter-sectoral relationships. Post the event, I was pleasantly surprised with a job offer, a testament to UKREiiF’s commitment to fostering young talent.

UKREiiF: Any advice for young individuals keen on engaging with platforms like UKREiiF?

Luci: Embrace such opportunities wholeheartedly. Platforms like UKREiiF provide invaluable insights into the industry’s workings. It’s more than just technical learning; it’s about establishing connections, understanding diverse sectors, and immersing oneself in the broader landscape.

UKREiiF: To wrap up, how would you summarise your UKREiiF journey?

Luci: UKREiiF emerged as a hub of positivity and inspiration. It wasn’t just about the technical aspects; it was a confluence of passion and purpose. The emphasis on inclusivity, especially for emerging voices like mine, resonated deeply. It truly reflects UKREiiF’s dedication to nurturing and empowering the next generation.

UKREiiF: Thanks Luci, see you in 2024.

Luci: You definitely will!