2024 Ones to Watch Rising Stars: Elizabeth Canela, Totem

“This year, Elizabeth has successfully driven Totem’s community engagement during the development of the Herkimer-Williams proposal for East New York, which would bring significant affordable housing, commercial and industrial space to the area. Elizabeth has been integral in turning articulated community needs into actionable items Totem’s new projects can deliver.” - Vivian Liao, Co-Founder and Principal at Totem.

How do you balance your rising career with your personal life? There’s no balance. I figure things out as they come, do my best to plan and pivot when I need to. A support system and a team you love working with everyday are key. As a new mom, life often feels imbalanced and I’m learning to be ok with that.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of your passions or hobbies? I’m a student of history and love to read - it’s how I attempt to make sense. I enjoyed reading The Power Broker and cried while reading Kiese Laymon’s memoir, Heavy. Reading is the ultimate way to connect to humanity in a way that feels comfortable for my introverted soul.