November 21, 2024 CMAP Board Spotlight: Nina Idemudia, CEO of the Center for Neighborhood Technology Welcome to the second installment of the CMAP Board Spotlight. Learn about Nina Idemudia, chief executive officer of the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT). Nina represents Chicago on the Board. Tell us about yourself: why were you inspired to join the Board? I’m deeply passionate about advancing equitable, sustainable planning, and my personal background being from Detroit has shaped my commitment to these goals. Prior to my role as CEO of CNT, I worked in various government positions in Los Angeles and Chicago, where I focused on urban planning and community development. These experiences showed me the importance of ensuring that government policies truly serve the communities they’re meant to uplift. Joining CMAP’s Board felt like a natural extension of this work, allowing me to apply my skills to elevate inclusive, data-driven policies that address regional challenges. The opportunity to shape a more equitable Chicago metropolitan area truly inspired me to take on this role. What are you hoping to accomplish? My main goal is to advance strategic alignment between planning efforts and the lived experiences of marginalized communities. I hope to leverage my role to expand access to equitable transit options and further operationalize equity in infrastructure projects. Additionally, I aim to enhance collaboration between local governments and community-based organizations (CBOs) through capacity building, a key priority in my work with CNT. What is a hidden gem in your community? A hidden gem in my community is a restaurant in Archer Heights called Solazo. It’s a cozy spot that serves incredible food, and it really embodies the diverse, vibrant culture of the neighborhood. Solazo is a place where people from all walks of life come together, and it’s become a staple for those who know about it. It’s one of those places that reminds you how food can bring a community together. What is a project you are working on right now? Right now, I’m leading CNT’s Visionary Voices event series, which brings together diverse community and industry leaders to discuss critical issues in urban planning and policy. This series is designed to spark dialogue on topics such as sustainable development, equitable transit, and climate resilience, while also highlighting the voices of women and other underrepresented groups in the field. Each event fosters collaboration between community advocates, policymakers, and planners, driving new, forward-thinking approaches to the challenges our cities face. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the momentum build as we create space for these important conversations. Have you received an award or honor that meant a great deal to you? Being named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ 40 Under 40 class of 2024 at the age of 34 is a significant honor. It affirmed my commitment to pushing boundaries in urban planning and highlighted the importance of elevating Black women in leadership roles. This recognition is especially meaningful as it represents the rise of millennial leaders who are reshaping industries and championing equity, innovation, and sustainability. It’s not just about individual success, but about the collective impact we’re making as a generation committed to systemic change. Article by Al Lagattolla Stay connected with your community Newsletter sign-up Opens in a modal Related news Click to read 2024 Annual Report: Serve, strengthen, empower our region Posted on Click to read 2024 Annual Report: Serve, strengthen, empower our region Click to read CMAP Board Spotlight: Carolyn Schofield, Board vice chair represents McHenry County Posted on Click to read CMAP Board Spotlight: Carolyn Schofield, Board vice chair represents McHenry County Click to read Transportation Improvement Program conformity analysis open for public comment through December 13, 2024 Posted on Click to read Transportation Improvement Program conformity analysis open for public comment through December 13, 2024 Click to read CMAP Board Spotlight: Nancy Rotering, Highland Park mayor representing Lake County Posted on Click to read CMAP Board Spotlight: Nancy Rotering, Highland Park mayor representing Lake County