You'll pay for this: a talk with Winnipeg author and urban activist Michel Durand-Wood.

Michel will be in conversation with Nicole Roach, founder of Women in Urbanism Canada (who writes a phenomenal monthly newsletter you should read!).

Fifty signed copies of his book will be available.

Doors at 7. Remarks 7:30 - 9PM.

Address available via RSVP

Join author Michel Durand-Wood, better known online as "Elmwood Guy," a Winnipeg-based writer, community advocate, and author of "You'll Pay for This: How We Can Afford a Great City for Everyone Forever."

Michel shares his journey from concerned neighbour to influential voice in municipal finance and urban planning.

- How noticing a decline in his Elmwood neighbourhood sparked Michel's passion for municipal advocacy
- Why the 2018 Portage and Main plebiscite became a turning point in his understanding of public engagement
- The hidden connections between municipal finance and human rights - from equitable public services to housing accessibility
- How infrastructure decisions made today impact our city's ability to provide services "forever"

Michel reminds us that municipal finance isn't just about budgets - it's about creating inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. His approach demonstrates how understanding the financial implications of city planning decisions empowers citizens to advocate for more equitable and sustainable urban development.

Michel reminds us that municipal finance isn't just about budgets; it's about creating inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. His approach demonstrates how understanding the financial implications of city planning decisions empowers citizens to advocate for more equitable and sustainable urban development.

Nicole Roach, founder of Women in Urbanism Canada.

Nicole is Co-Founder and Chair of Women in Urbanism Canada (WiUC) and Director of Sustainable Mobility at Green Communities Canada (GCC). She is an experienced program manager who has led provincial and national initiatives focused on commuting behaviours, children’s mobility, and community outreach. Since founding WiUC in 2022, Nicole has grown the organization from two volunteers to a board of ten directors and a growing staff team by successfully securing several capacity-building grants. In her role at GCC, Nicole manages several large-scale sustainable mobility projects, including the National Active School Streets Initiative, School Travel Planning, and the Canadian Electric School Bus Alliance.

Nicole holds an Honours B.A. in Communications Studies and Philosophy from McMaster University and an M.Sc. in Sustainability Science, Policy, and Society from Maastricht University. She has lived in Orillia, ON; Hamilton, ON; Winnipeg, MB; Maastricht, NL; Toronto, ON; and has resided in Edmonton, AB since 2024. Nicole enjoys writing, photography, gardening, and riding bikes in her spare time.