Professor joins global urban leaders in ‘The Century of Cities’ podcast
Posted on: 15 July, 2025
The University of the Built Environment’s Professor Samer Bagaeen, Head of Town Planning, features in a brand-new episode of The Century of Cities podcast – live from today.
This flagship series, presented by Professor Greg Clark CBE and broadcaster Jennifer Dolynchuk, brings together 100 global experts to explore the evolution, challenges and future of urban life.
Reflections on Amman
In this episode, Samer, also a serving councillor, draws on his unique blend of academic research, political experience and international urban resilience work to share a personal and professional reflection on how cities evolve.
Using his own journey growing up in Amman, Jordan, in the 1980s to leading urban resilience initiatives in cities like Rome and Milan, he explores the complex realities of city life today.
He highlights the crucial role of listening to communities – especially when budgets are constrained – and champions the importance of targeted, neighbourhood-level solutions as catalysts for long-term urban transformation.
Cities in 2080
Looking ahead to 2080, Samer considers the practical steps needed to make cities more resilient, equitable and future-ready.
Speaking of his experience on the podcast, he said:
“I was thrilled to join 100 distinguished global urban experts in reflecting on a century of cities and am grateful to Greg and Jen for the opportunity. My background in capacity, capability development, urban planning, and global urban resilience, combined with my experience as an elected politician, enriched this opportunity.”
He added: “It allowed me to gain deeper insights into urban dynamics worldwide and therefore has allowed me to reflect with a special focus on the past and future of my hometown of Amman in Jordan.”
The episode is available to stream now – an essential listen for urban professionals, policymakers and enthusiasts.
