WRLDCTY

"The “do no harm” approach is no longer enough ... What’s more, the ongoing degradation of the environment is compounded by multiple converging crises: widening inequality, social isolation, community displacements, to name a few." So, what now? Antonio Gomez-Palacio, a WRLDCTY Fellow, offers that people must be central to regenerative design:

After five years of ideas, community and city-building, we're doubling down on connection with the launch of the WRLDCTY Global Fellows Circle: A global community of designers, artists, academics, technologists, entrepreneurs, investors, activists, developers, architects and more who are leaning into the future of humanity and future of cities with intense curiosity and a penchant for action. This intimate circle of uncommon collaborators are shaping the #worldsnextcities - from brain health to wellness and longevity, to housing solutions and climate adaptation, AI and more. Fellows are at the core of WRLDCTY's DNA and will help shape the questions, conversations, learning journeys and Global Forums as we continue to share the world's best ideas about cities - from the best cities in the world. Interested to learn more? Reach out! With thanks to: Metro Yogi Peter Hyland Chris Fair Antonio Gomez-Palacio Emiliano Espasandin Melissa Burton Saravanan Sugumaran Charles Landry Steven Cornwell Ann-Britt Elvin Andersen Gary Gaston Iain Montgomery Paul Owens Heath Gledhill Jasmine Palardy Rajiv Ahuja, JD Hazleen Ahmad Darryl Condon Manas Rath Andrew King Jordan Isac Centre for Liveable Cities Resonance BLOXHUB and more. ??

To kick off 2025, WRLDCTY is pleased to work with BLOXHUB to host our first cohort of WRLDCTY Global Fellows for an in-depth exploration of the city of Copenhagen - the projects, people and ideas that are shaping this city towards a more regenerative future. For three days in June, a small group of global urban change-makers will come together to ask big questions and collectively imagine, collaborate, inspire ... and act. Partnerships like this, which turn cities into shared learning environments, help accelerate and enrich the work of individuals and organizations in the WRLDCTY community who are driving ambitious initiatives for better urban futures. The Global Fellows Circle is an uncommon fellowship for uncommon times. Collectively, we dig into the conditions and ingredients shaping the world's best - and NEXT - cities. Join us! Learn more at https://wrldcty.com Ann-Britt Elvin Andersen Jakob Norman-Hansen Chris Fair Metro Yogi Jasmine Palardy

BIG NEWS! Where better to convene a gathering of urban optimists to build more resilient futures for cities than one of the best cities in the world: Singapore! WRLDCTY is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with the Centre for Liveable Cities to support global knowledge sharing, enhance community connections and bring the 2026 annual WRLDCTY Global Forum to the World Cities Summit. ?? Where will WRLDCTY be in 2025 before we head to Singapore? Join us in the beautiful city of Vancouver, Canada. Details to be released soon! Since 2020, WRLDCTY has been a trusted platform to shape more future-ready cities through community, labs and global forums. WRLDCTY is the global stage for urbanists, visionaries, and change-makers driving the future of cities. Join our community?- spanning disciplines, industries, and geographies - who are actively designing the next generation of cities. Thank you to Hugh Lim, Michael Koh and their team for championing this MOU. WRLDCTY isn’t just about ideas. It’s about action. It’s about the cities we inherit—and the cities we create next.

???? RESONANCE CASE STUDY: Brussels: The World’s Decision Center Never Said It Was Perfect | ?? Watch how Resonance helped position the EU capital into an irresistible global city. Geopolitical intrigue. Global influence. A capital of diplomacy. Brussels is, without question, one of the most important decision centers on the planet. Especially in 2025. But beyond the European Union and international institutions, the city is also a stealthy incredible hometown—rich in culture, diversity, and quality of life. For years, a fragmented government structure and lack of common vision diluted Brussels’ brand equity, leaving many with the impression of a bureaucratic hub rather than a dynamic place to live, work, visit, and invest. The Government of the Brussels-Capital Region set out to change that. In an unprecedented effort to align tourism, talent attraction, FDI, and private sector stakeholders, Resonance led a bold new destination branding and marketing initiative to reposition Brussels as not just the capital of the EU—but an irresistible global city. Through extensive pan-European research and collaboration with more than 100 stakeholders, we uncovered a defining truth: Brussels is one of the world’s most welcoming, tolerant, and effortlessly cool cities. A place where you can Dare to Be Yourself. This distinctive positioning celebrates Brussels’ quirky, non-conformist character—hidden just beneath the surface of its EU formality. It’s a clear differentiation from competing global cities, designed to provoke sophisticated travelers, ambitious talent, and visionary investors. But the work doesn’t stop at branding. Resonance is ensuring alignment across tourism, economic development, and private sector marketing, partnering with local agencies and businesses to bring this vision to life—through a bold new identity system, a compelling manifesto film (seriously, watch it for the goosebumps), and a powerful, united voice for the region. As the world watches Brussels, the perfectly imperfect city is ready for the attention. ?? Watch the case study video and see the transformation in action: https://lnkd.in/gBW_YT2n --- #PlaceBranding #EconomicDevelopment #DestinationMarketing #FDI #TalentAttraction #Brussels #DareToBeYourself #EconomicDeveloment #CityBranding #Tourism #PlaceMarketing #Europe #Cities

?? This Valentine’s Day, let’s toast (and explore) how cities become lovable—the places that don’t just attract visitors, but inspire long-term commitment from residents, talent, and businesses alike. At Resonance, we’ve spent years studying what makes cities thrive. Beyond economic success, it’s the emotional connections people form with a place that drive growth and prosperity. The cities that prioritize lovability—not just livability—are winning the competition for talent, tourism, and investment. So, what does a truly lovable city look like? Based on our research and proprietary Best Cities rankings, here are the key components every city should focus on: 1?? Connection & Socialization: Turning Central Business Districts into Central Social Districts In an era of remote work and digital connection, people crave real-world social experiences more than ever. The best cities are redesigning public spaces to foster interaction and engagement. This means: ? Dynamic public programming ? Pedestrian-first design ? Mixed-use hubs 2?? Local Identity & Authenticity: Fostering a Unique Sense of Place People love cities that feel distinct—where local businesses thrive, cultural traditions are celebrated, and authenticity is protected. The most successful cities are: ? Supporting small, local businesses ? Preserving cultural heritage ? Enhancing brand storytelling 3?? Wellbeing & Nature: Designing for Health & Happiness The built environment plays a crucial role in mental and physical health. The most lovable cities are: ? Prioritizing green and blue spaces ? Integrating wellness into design ? Investing in walkability and micromobility 4?? Retailtainment: Blurring the Lines Between Shopping, Dining & Fun Traditional retail is evolving, and the best cities are embracing experience-driven spaces where shopping, dining, and entertainment seamlessly merge. The cities leading the way are: ? Creating immersive retail districts ? Encouraging pop-ups and experimental retail ? Reimagining mixed-use spaces 5?? Nightlife & 18-Hour Cities: Building a Vibrant After-Hours Economy A city that goes quiet after dark isn’t a lovable one. A strong nighttime economy not only improves quality of life but also drives economic growth. The best cities are: ? Appointing a Night Mayor ? Diversifying nighttime offerings ? Designing for safety and accessibility 6?? Inclusivity & Equity: Ensuring Everyone Feels at Home A city is only lovable if it welcomes everyone. The most forward-thinking cities are: ? Co-creating public spaces with underrepresented communities ? Building affordable and inclusive housing policies ? Making accessibility a priority Which city has captured your heart? Drop your favorite in the comments! ?? --- #LovableCities #PlaceBranding #PlaceMarketing #DestinationMarketing #Tourism #Cities #CityBranding #EconomicDevelopment #TourismMarketing #ValentinesDay #RealEstate

?? JUST LAUNCHED! Our first-ever Asia-Pacific's Best Cities Report, ranking the fast-growing region’s 100 top-performing cities. Get your free report now, featuring deep-dives on EVERY city: https://lnkd.in/gg6wGjBk ???? Singapore takes the #1 spot, setting the standard for innovation, prosperity, and livability. But it’s a fiercely competitive field: 1. Singapore – A global powerhouse excelling in infrastructure, GDP per capita, and innovation, Singapore continues to redefine modern urban living. 2. Tokyo, Japan – The perfect blend of culture, commerce, and connectivity, Tokyo ranks high for its attractions, museums, and nightlife. 3. Seoul, South Korea – A technology and cultural giant, Seoul combines futuristic infrastructure with historic charm. 4. Hong Kong – A resilient financial hub with a rich history, Hong Kong remains a top destination for business and culture. 5. Beijing – China’s economic heart invents our future while trying to keep the Chinese miracle going amidst growing global headwinds. 6. Bangkok, Thailand – Rising with investments in high-speed rail and urban renewal, Bangkok cements its role as a gateway city. 7. Sydney, Australia – With pristine beaches and cutting-edge business districts, Sydney is a magnet for global talent and investment. 8. Shanghai, China – As one of the world’s busiest ports, Shanghai leads in global commerce and cultural innovation. 9. Melbourne, Australia – Renowned for its livability, cultural vibrancy, and food scene, Melbourne maintains its global appeal. 10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A multicultural marvel, KL shines with its thriving financial sector and bold urban developments. --- #AsiaPacific #APAC #AsianCities #Australia #IndianCities #India #placebranding #cities #tourism #tourismmarketing #Japan #Tokyo #Singapore #destinationmarketing #bestcities #China #ChineseCities #urbanism

?? LAST CHANCE to register for tomorrow's webinar, hosted by Resonance President & CEO Chris Fair. Space is limited so save your spot now to empower your city, community and destination in 2025! ??https://lnkd.in/gj7MEfdW --- #placebranding #tourism #cities #urbanism #urbandevelopment #realestate #bestcities #economicdevelopment #placemarketing #citybranding #talentattraction #livability

??END 2024 ENLIGHTENED AND EMPOWERED!???? Join our ”Secrets of the World’s Best Cities“ webinar this Thursday at 12 noon ET / 9 a.m. PT, hosted by our President & CEO Chris Fair. Spots are limited: ??https://lnkd.in/gjN9zZYw --- #placebranding #cities #bestcities #destinationmarketing #webinar #tourism #travel #economicdevelopment #urbanism #placemarketing #citybranding #talentattraction #ecdev #econdev #urbandevelopment #realestate

?? NEW WEBINAR THIS THU., DEC. 12! Secrets of the World’s Best Cities in 2025. ?? https://lnkd.in/gQpyTZ6w Resonance President & CEO Chris Fair reveals the key forces driving migration, visitation and business formation. Why do some places seem to easily snare new talent, coveted investment, eager visitors and the headlines that laud it all? Join us and find out. —- #cities #talentattraction #destinationmarketing #economicdevelopment #ecdev #placebranding #placemaking #tourism #tourismmarketing #placemarketing #bestcities