In this blog, we meet Arushee Patnaik, who has volunteered with us on various projects, including in Nairnshire and Stonehaven. Arushee has a background in architecture and is passionate about volunteering and helping communities have a say about what’s happening in their area. Read on to hear about her experience!

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m originally from India, where I have gained diverse experience personally and professionally. I came to the United Kingdom for my master’s degree about two years ago, which has been an incredible experience. I did my undergrad in architecture back in India, and I have over four years of experience working as a senior sustainability analyst, which sparked my passion for planning and sustainability.

I enjoy learning new skills, collaborating with others, and finding creative solutions to challenges. Outside of work, I am passionate about community volunteering, especially making sure that people know what’s happening in their community and how they can have a voice. I love to travel, explore new cultures, and visit local cafes, which helps me to stay inspired and balanced. I also love photography!

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time on creative and community-focused activities. I volunteer with Urban Releaf as well. Their focus is talking to people about the parks in Dundee, how we can improve them, what they feel about them, and how we can improve things etc. In my free time, I enjoy exploring creative and reflective activities. I love reading about cities, design, and how people shape the places they live in—it keeps me curious and inspired.

I also enjoy photography, urban sketching (more like doodling), and volunteering, so that helps me stay grounded. For example, sitting in a town centre and sketching out the cityscape it gives me a sense of involvement. I’m always up for learning something new, whether it’s through a podcast, a workshop, or just a good conversation. It’s a great balance to more structured work and helps fuel my passion for community and place.

How did you get involved with Planning Aid Scotland?

I heard about Planning Aid Scotland through word of mouth. What inspired me to join Planning Aid Scotland was their commitment to empowering the communities in shaping their local environment. It has been a remarkable experience throughout. Planning Aid Scotland’s mission to promote inclusive participation in planning and placemaking resonated with me, especially their commitment to supporting seldom-heard groups and marginalised communities. Their facilitation-based approach and emphasis on collaboration and inclusion align with my values, making me eager to contribute to their efforts in creating more equitable and sustainable communities.

What has been your favourite experience as a volunteer?

My favourite experience with Planning Aid Scotland so far has been seeing the direct impact of community engagement, especially working with local groups to co-design solutions that reflect their unique needs and aspirations. Supporting workshops where voices that are often unheard were empowered to shape their environment was incredibly rewarding. It highlighted the power of inclusive planning and how meaningful participation can lead to more thoughtful, sustainable outcomes. Being part of a team that genuinely values collaboration and creativity has made the experience both inspiring and fulfilling.

Any top tips you’ve learnt from volunteering with Planning Aid Scotland?

The one key lesson I learned through Planning Aid Scotland is the importance of active listening. In community engagements, whether in the training session or volunteer projects, I saw how creating space for people to express their thoughts without judgement or interruption can lead to more honest dialogue and better planning outcomes. I gained practical skills for facilitation and inclusive communication, especially when working with such diverse communities. These experiences reinforce that good planning isn’t just about policies or designs – it’s about people, relationships, and building trust.

What do you find inspiring about planning in Scotland?

What I find most inspiring about planning in Scotland is its strong emphasis on community engagement and inclusion. The introduction of Local Place Plans empowers communities to shape their own futures, making planning a collaborative rather than top-down process.

Additionally, Scotland’s approach often balances heritage protection with innovation, as seen in projects that preserve historic towns while embracing sustainable development. Initiatives like those in Nairn and Stonehaven show how planning can be both people-focused and forward-thinking. This blend of participation, place-based thinking, and long-term vision makes planning in Scotland not just a technical exercise, but a meaningful way to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Any fun facts about planning?

• One thing I love about planning in Scotland is that the public has a legal right to be involved in planning decisions, making it one of the few countries where community participation is embedded in law. I love the fact that when they were writing the law, they had communities in mind and that their input on decisions around planning is important.
• Edinburgh’s New Town, which was built in the 18th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is said to be one of the finest examples of Georgian urban planning in the world.
• The greenbelt around cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh is a planning tool to prevent urban sprawl and natural disasters.

We want to hear from you! If you’re interested in doing a profile for our blog, please get in touch with Jo.