/ɲaːdɛŋ/ Nyahn-dang


Sudanese-American, raised under the guidance of semi-nomadic pastoralists from North and South Sudan, my path has woven through the vibrant communities of the south, my heart’s anchor, and the Pacific Northwest. I now find myself navigating life in New York while pursuing my MSc in Urban Planning at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation.

My approach to planning and design is deeply influenced by a lifetime of transitions, bringing together the sounds, stories, and collective memories I've gathered along the way. I spend time reflecting on urban harmonics, climate change, and the impact of global cultural shifts. By analyzing spatial data, I strive to understand and address the geographic implications of these issues, developing strategies that enhance housing accessibility, address climate change, respond to displacement, and foster economic vitality. Leveraging my background in audio engineering and training in classical dance, I use sound and motion to narrate and transform urban experiences, crafting spaces that resonate with the diverse communities they serve.

My roots are entwined with the oral histories of all the communities I am a part of, driving my mission to redefine community and space in urban settings. I am committed to designing cities that not only accommodate but also celebrate the complexities of our urban environments.









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