Jorn Wemmenhove
Changemaker for human and kind cities.

Jorn Wemmenhove’s passion is helping people who have lost their connection to nature rediscover it, especially in cities.

“I believe in creating cities that are human and kind to ourselves, others and our planet. Cities today are so focused on being smart and efficient, but we are humans–natural, spontaneous, weird creatures that need space.” 

Jorn believes that people are wanderers and need places to destress and reconnect with nature. 

“Green spaces in cities can restore both physical and mental health.” 

Jorn’s love of nature started young.

“I loved climbing trees but would often fall out of them. Nature has a way of giving life lessons.”

Today, Jorn’s living room is like a jungle, full of plants that he tends to and even talks to. His work brings nature to parts of cities where you might not expect it. 

Jorn uses “tactical urbanism” to envision the future of cities. Tactical urbanism is taking short-term actions that can bring about long-term solutions. His focus is bringing nature and people together. For example, closing a street to cars so people can gather for a day. Or turning random parking spots into “parklets” with green elements and seating. 

Jorn’s advice for being a hero for nature is to just have fun. Just do what you can.

“It’s not necessarily about being called a hero, it’s about taking heroic actions.”