The Fourth Annual Healthy Cities Virtual Conference
November 12-13th, 2025
Keynote Session – Nov 12th
| What are Healthy Cities? |
|---|
| 12:00pm – 1:00pm |
About the Session
This opening session will provide an overarching perspective on the principles that define a healthy city. It will explore how the concept has evolved since its introduction, offering a clear definition of what it means for a city to be “healthy” in today’s context. The discussion will highlight where we currently stand, examining progress, ongoing challenges, and emerging opportunities for municipalities across Canada. This foundation will set the stage for deeper conversations throughout the conference on how cities can continue to advance health, equity, and sustainability.
Keynote Speaker
Amanda O’Rourke
Our keynote speaker is Amanda O’Rourke, Executive Director of 8 80 Cities, a Toronto-based non-profit dedicated to creating healthy, happy, and sustainable cities by advocating for inclusive, age-friendly urban design. Amanda brings over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, partnership development, and leading high-impact, equity-focused public space projects spanning North America, Europe, and Australia.
Holding a Master of Science in Urban Planning from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology from Queen’s University, Amanda is a recognized thought leader, sought after as a speaker, writer, and facilitator. She collaborates closely with city governments and community partners to make walking, biking, public transit, and public space more inclusive and accessible for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
She also contributes to the broader field as Co-Chair of the Children Play and Nature Committee for World Urban Parks and as an Advisory Board Member for Healthy Places by Design.