Winner - Sophie Burch
Sophie is an exceptional candidate to represent Northern Ireland as a young planner. Sophie has managed to squeeze in so much experience into a relatively early career. It is clear she has a great enthusiasm for planning and willingness to share her knowledge and experience with others. She does a number of voluntary roles for the RTPI, showing her commitment to the planning profession and in promoting RTPI membership to young planners. Her interpersonal skills assist her with reaching a wide variety of people and enable her to thrive in a team environment and be approachable to those in need. Sophie is thriving in her career, acting as a role model to younger planners who are navigating the start of their careers. An excellence advocate for planning in Northern Ireland and the RTPI.