Welcome to "The Politics of Gentrification," a scholarly exploration into the intricate dynamics of urban planning and property development, penned by Wandile Dhlamini—a final-year student on the cusp of transitioning from academia to the professional world.

 

Who is Wandile Dhlamini?

Wandile is not just a dedicated student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning at the esteemed University of Witwatersrand. He is a lifelong built environment enthusiast, born and raised in the humble small town of White River, Mpumalanga. His passion for the built environment was ignited amidst the serene landscapes of his hometown and further fuelled by annual family trips to visit his Grandfather in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, where the bustling streets, architectural marvels, and diverse communities left an indelible mark on his young mind.

 - to keep up on his current endeavours connect with him on LinkedIn

​

 

What to expect from this blog:

 

Insightful Exploration

The blog is a curated collection of nine posts, each meticulously crafted to delve into the complexities of gentrification. From historical roots to contemporary manifestations, the posts offer a scholarly examination that dissects the subject matter with precision and depth.

 

Historical Foundations

Unravel the historical roots of gentrification in the inaugural post, "The Marriage of Urbanization and Neoliberalism (and their profitable first born)." Understand how rapid urbanization and neoliberal economic philosophies birthed this intricate phenomenon, laying the conceptual groundwork for subsequent discussions.

 

Real-World Case Studies

Embark on a journey through real-world examples, such as the $9 Billion redevelopment of Battersea Power Station in London. Explore the delicate dance between private developers and local governments, and uncover the stark realities that often lurk behind promises of affordable housing.

 

Global Perspectives

Our exploration transcends geographical boundaries, from the urban development challenges faced by African countries to the globalized trends of digital nomadism and platforms like Airbnb. Understand the dynamic nature of gentrification in diverse contexts, reinforcing the need for adaptive and context-specific urban planning strategies.

 

Intellectual Guidance

Throughout the blog, insights from Neil Smith's seminal work, "Gentrification of the City," serve as a guiding compass. His exploration of the restructuring of urban space, the political and social construction of revitalized neighbourhoods, and the consequences of private landlordism enrich the scholarly foundation upon which this exploration unfolds.

 

A Scholar's Transition

 

As I transition from academic endeavours to the professional sphere, this blog is not a conclusion but a stepping stone for further exploration and scholarly engagement. The passion for understanding and addressing the challenges posed by gentrification is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a commitment to contribute meaningfully to the shaping of sustainable and equitable urban environments.

 

Join the Conversation

 

As Wandile prepares to graduate and step into the professional realm, he extends an invitation to you, the discerning reader, to share your insights and perspectives. Your experiences and expertise will contribute to the ongoing scholarly engagement with the challenges posed by gentrification, or any advice on the journey ahead.

 

Whether you are an experienced urban planner, a property development aficionado, or someone eager to delve into the complexities of gentrification, please do join the conversation.