S2E21 PnP John Kamp James Rojas on Dream Play Build

What if we told you the best way to shape your neighbourhood isn’t with blueprints or boring public meetings - but with toys, laughter, and found objects?

In this People and Projects episode of Streets and People, Wendy chats with James Rojas and John Kamp, the creative minds behind Dream Play Build. These two are flipping the script on community engagement. Forget jargon-filled consultations and slide decks. James and John show how playful, hands-on methods unlock people’s imagination and voice.

You’ll hear how James went from building miniature worlds as a kid in East LA to reshaping real urban spaces. And how John’s background in environmental activism taught him the power of humour and joy to shift hearts and minds. Together, they’ve developed a proven method that uses art, play, and sensory experiences to draw people in, build trust, and deliver real-world results.

Whether you're an urban planner, community organiser, or just want to make your area better, this episode will inspire you to dream, play, and build with your community at the centre.

Dream Play Build: Hands-On CommunityEngagement for Enduring Spaces and Places https://islandpress.org/books/dream-play-build (discount code PLACEIT)

One of Planetizen's top planning anddesign books of 2022: https://www.planetizen.com/features/119960-top-urban-planning-books-2022

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