What does it take to build a truly global parks movement – and where is World Urban Parks heading next?
In part two of our special 10-year anniversary celebration, host Maria Burnett is joined by three leaders shaping the future direction of World Urban Parks: Mark Bowater, Michael Boland, and Hannah Chapman-Carr.
Together, they explore the organisation’s strategic vision for the next decade – from equitable access to urban parks, to nurturing emerging leaders and sharing knowledge across continents. Through stories of personal growth, global collaboration, and bold ambition, this episode shows what’s possible when parks are driven by purpose and people.
✨ Highlights include:
- Why social equity and access are at the heart of WUP’s strategic vision
- What leadership and collaboration mean on a global scale
- How emerging professionals are shaping the future of urban parks
- The role of advocacy, innovation, and community ownership in the next ten years
🎧 If you haven’t yet, listen to Part I to hear from WUP board leaders Jayne Miller and Tim Geyer on how it all began.
👤 Featured Guest
Mark Bowater – Deputy Chair, World Urban Parks
🔗 Mark Bowater | LinkedIn
Michael Boland – Co-Chair, Large Urban Parks
🔗 Michael Boland | LinkedIn
Hannah Chapman-Carr – Governance Chair, World Urban Parks
🔗 Hannah Chapman-Carr | LinkedIn
About PodParks
PodParks is the official podcast of World Urban Parks. Hosted by Maria Burnett, each episode shares real stories and bold ideas from the people making parks, public space, and urban nature more inclusive, innovative, and essential.
🎙️ Meet the PodParks Team
Maria Burnett | Luis Romahn | Vitoria Martín | Vladimir Yañez| Cynthia Hernández | Boris Solis
Learn more about World Urban Parks
World Urban Parks is the global network for urban park professionals, advocates, and city leaders working to shape greener, healthier, and more inclusive cities.
🌐 worldurbanparks.org
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