Young Planner of the Year — Winner: Munashe Mhemba, Marrons
Young Planner of the Year — Winner: Munashe Mhemba, Marrons
Munashe Mhemba of Marrons has been named Young Planner of the Year, recognised for her outstanding contribution to planning, her exceptional technical skill, and her ability to shape developments that positively influence both people and place. Munashe stands out as a forward-thinking planner who combines analytical precision with a deep commitment to community-focused outcomes.
Her professionalism, expertise, and clear potential to become a future leader in the planning sector made her the standout winner of this year’s award.
Why She Won
Munashe has demonstrated remarkable capability across complex planning matters, showcasing maturity well beyond her years. Judges were particularly impressed by her ability to navigate technical challenges, her strong understanding of policy, and her instinctive ability to communicate planning principles clearly to clients, stakeholders, and community members.
Her work strengthens Marrons’ reputation for delivering robust, high-quality planning advice and demonstrates her growing influence within the industry.
What Set Her Apart
Exceptional Technical Knowledge
Munashe consistently produces work of an exceptionally high standard, whether preparing planning appraisals, drafting policy responses, or supporting major applications. Her attention to detail and understanding of the planning system enable her to add real value to projects of varying scale and complexity.
Impact Across a Diverse Portfolio
Her contributions span residential, commercial, regeneration, and strategic land projects, demonstrating versatility and confidence. Munashe plays a pivotal role in progressing applications that unlock development opportunities and support sustainable growth across the regions Marrons serves.
Strong Engagement and Communication Skills
Munashe excels in engaging with local authorities, clients, and community stakeholders. She communicates technical planning matters with clarity and diplomacy, strengthening client relationships and fostering collaboration throughout the planning process.
Commitment to High-Quality Outcomes
She is driven by a strong sense of responsibility to ensure developments deliver social, environmental, and economic benefits. Munashe demonstrates a clear understanding of how planning decisions shape long-term community wellbeing and approaches every project with this wider impact in mind.
A Role Model for Aspiring Planners
Colleagues recognise Munashe as a supportive, proactive, and positive presence within the team. She willingly shares knowledge, contributes to internal development initiatives, and demonstrates the traits of a natural mentor and future leader.
The Impact
Munashe’s work has contributed significantly to the success of Marrons’ planning team and the wider range of clients they support. Her ability to analyse, advise, and deliver effective planning solutions has improved project outcomes, strengthened stakeholder relationships, and enhanced the overall quality of developments brought forward under her guidance.
Beyond project delivery, she contributes to shaping better places, championing planning approaches that are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to community needs.
A Deserving Winner
Munashe Mhemba represents the very best of the next generation of planners—knowledgeable, driven, community-minded, and committed to making a positive difference through the planning profession.
For her exceptional performance, leadership potential, and clear impact within her field, she is a thoroughly deserving winner of Young Planner of the Year.