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About People Plan Community

Together Towards Tomorrow.

As an award-winning Member of the Canadian Institute of Planners, and a Registered Professional Planner in Ontario, I specialize in collaborations between communities in watershed planning and Indigenous relations.

With over 20 years experience, and my full certification in IAP2 and Indigenous relations, my approach combines professional planning expertise with engagement techniques through a Treaty informed approach.

Susan Robertson-Principal Planner

My Approach

Guided by Bob Joseph’s RESPECT™ model, my approach upholds the 3R’s of Indigenous relations in land use planning: Respect for Indigenous diversity, Recognition for constitutionally protected Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, and sharing together for the hope of Reconciliation.

Together, with my network of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous colleagues, we help you navigate the landscape of community and Indigenous relations in natural and cultural heritage planning through collaborative and informed engagement processes that build relationships.

“Respectful relations frame the beginning of every positive conversation, plan, and partnership.”

What Our Partners Say

Susan Robertson has demonstrated her commitment to the field of planning, generously providing her time as a volunteer mentor to myself, a new member of Ontario Professional Planners Institute. As part of the mentorship program Susan and I have worked through a variety of challenging planning and employment related topics. To each issue, Susan has provided insightful advice from her wealth of professional experience. Her ability to facilitate conversation and to bridge diverse perspectives yields excellent balanced outcomes. She is a pleasure to work with.
Anissa McAlpineOntario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry District Planner, OPPI Provisional Member
Susan Robertson is a keen listener committed to meaningful relationship building, authentic voiced direction, structured long term visioning and respectful engagement. Working with Susan for over 3 years in a variety of venues, scenarios and people allowed me to see her wide variety of credible skill sets, energetic enthusiasm and creativity. I found her to be attentive, detail oriented, great at summarizing lengthy discussions accurately, able to hold privacy respectfully and really good at bringing a wide variety of people together on projects. Her effective communication style and heartfelt commitment to excellence is a rare but welcome asset that I will continue to seek on future projects. Her diverse knowledge on a wide variety of topics was invaluable along with her vast network of contacts.
Kim WheatleyAnishinaabe Cultural Consultant
I highly recommend People Plan Community. I worked with Susan Robertson in a collaborative approach to Indigenous engagement. Susan showed up organized and thoughtful in her approach - complete with gantt charts and a 12-month plan. She demonstrated her years of experience through a carefully designed plan where she produced every deliverable she committed to in a creative way. She took the time to bring elements into the room that enabled thoughtful conversation. She had the creative idea to bring the topic of the conversation (Lake Ontario) into the room and give it a seat at the table, ensuring those who did not have a voice were given true consideration. I would highly recommend Susan to anyone seeking an Indigenous engagement expert.
Natalya GarrodPrincipal Planner, Sumac Consulting

Recognition and Impact

Over my career, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to projects that move reconciliation forward.Supported over $5 million in funding for Treaty initiatives.

Supported over $5 million in funding for Treaty initiatives

Developed nationally recognized projects such as the Moccasin Identifier™

Guided reconciliation-focused planning processes across the Great Lakes System

Collaborated with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, and municipal and regional governments

Awarded three national awards for contributions to Indigenous Rights in Planning.

Supported the Restoration of the Historic Council House at the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Served as a Commissioner for the Niagara Escarpment Commission.

Let’s engage meaningfully and plan effectively!

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