Bassel Sleem

Background

About Bassel Sleem

A city planner (RPP candidate) with a multidisciplinary background in urban planning, architecture, and community work. For the past few years, I’ve worked in local and regional governments, focusing on development and zoning reviews, land use policy, and improving permitting processes. I’ve worked on complex development proposals, defended decisions at appeal hearings, and helped draft Yellowknife’s latest development incentives bylaw. Municipal government has been the most exciting part of my career so far because it’s where decisions directly shape the places we live. Before moving into city planning, I worked as an architect in my home country of Lebanon on a range of projects, from concept designs and model making, to private residences and public school structural assessments. I also co-managed the design and execution of a berry farm in the mountains of Lebanon. Wanting to focus more on the social and public side of cities, I completed a Master of City Planning from the University of Manitoba. My capstone focused on placemaking and revitalising a historic street in downtown Winnipeg, which deepened my understanding of how public spaces bring people together and reflect community identity. Outside of planning, I am president of my Local union, where I’ve participated in negotiations, collective bargaining, and signed the latest collective agreement on behalf of municipal workers. I truly believe that everyone has a role to play in local government, and we owe it to each other to make sure people are supported and equipped to play their best role. Community involvement has always been a big part of my life. Most recently in 2023, I led the organisation of Yellowknife’s first Pride Parade, something I’m very proud of. I also serve as secretary on the board of directors for Western Arctic Moving Pictures, a nonprofit supporting film in the North. And I work part-time as a waiter, a job that keeps me connected to people in my community. At the heart of my work is a belief that places are about people first, creating inclusive, vibrant cities and communities where everyone feels they belong. That belief guides everything I do, both professionally and personally.