April 10, 2026
Architecture49’s National Practice Leader of Landscape Architecture & Urban Design, Bhavana Bonde, was recently elected as the President of the Manitoba Association of Landscape Architects (MALA). During her term, she hopes to bring a strong sense of connection between members, at any career stage, to strengthen their collective voice locally and beyond.
Bhavana came to Canada 27 years ago as a student and credits her career as a contributor in her “journey of becoming Canadian.” She believes this path allowed her to engage in meaningful conversations and work about land, identity, and care for place.
Landscape architects help shape projects from the earliest stages — bringing forward considerations of land, ecology, culture, climate resilience, and human experience. Their work connects buildings to their context, supports community wellbeing, and ensures outdoor spaces are meaningful, functional, and inclusive. Bhavana sees advocacy for these concepts as a key element in the long-term impact of landscape architecture, built not only into projects, but the MALA itself.
Bhavana sees Bill 234, The Registered Landscape Architects Act, as a key priority during her term. If passed, it would mark the culmination of MALA’s 40-year effort to protect the professional title Landscape Architect in Manitoba. For more than a decade, Bhavana has volunteered on the task force advocating for the legislation.
The act was introduced in the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba in March 2026 and is expected to move through the legislative process this year. Bhavana hopes that, by the end of her term, MALA will be formally authorized as the profession’s regulatory body in Manitoba.
“I believe in giving back to the profession that has given me so much, and in helping create a strong, supportive future for landscape architecture in Manitoba,” she said, “The MALA is a passionate, committed community of professionals who care deeply about Manitoba’s landscapes and communities.”
As MALA President, Bhavana urges young professionals to stay curious and see the value of listening to communities, mentors, and the land itself. “Get involved, ask questions, and seek out diverse experiences. Landscape architecture is a broad and evolving profession, and your voice and perspective matter more than you may realize.”