Women at the Wheel... Saira Vilchis: Planning Cities from Women's Experiences
Saira Vilchis emphasizes the unique urban mobility challenges women face in Mexico and the crucial role of urban planning in addressing these issues.
In the ongoing discourse on urban mobility in Mexico, the variations in experiences between genders have become increasingly evident. Saira Vilchis, an expert in Urban Development and Mobility at the Mario Molina Center, underscores that the everyday journeys of women differ significantly from those of men due to distinct risks and decisions when navigating urban spaces. For Vilchis, this reality is not merely an academic concern but deeply personal, shaping her professional aspirations towards transforming urban planning to better accommodate women's needs.
With a background in territorial planning, Vilchis asserts that transportation extends beyond mere technical systems; it serves as the backbone of urban life. Through her advocacy, she views transportation as essential for the overall functioning and connectivity of cities. The insights from her academic journey highlighted transportation’s critical role in a well-functioning city and how its failure can disrupt the urban ecosystem.
Vilchis's passion for enhancing mobility stems from her personal experiences with public transport, beginning at the age of 11. This early exposure informed her perspective on urban planning, driving her commitment to improve the urban landscape for women. By prioritizing women’s experiences in city planning, she aims to foster environments that not only enhance safety and accessibility but also promote a more inclusive urban experience for all residents.