MICHAEL OLDEN
Michael is the owner and managing director of the practice and is involved in all projects on a daily basis. He holds a BA degree in Geography and Sports Science, a Masters degree in Town and Regional Planning, a Bachelor of Business Management and Administration (Honours), and a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA). He has in excess of 20 years of experience in the field of Urban and Regional Planning and project management, and has been actively involved in a broad range of projects in Namibia, the North West Province and the Western Cape. He is a member of the South African Planning Institute (SAPI) and served as a committee member on behalf of the South African Association of Consulting Town and Regional Planners (SACP). When not at the helm of Olden & Associates, Michael enjoys outdoor pursuits, such as trail running, canoeing and diving.
OUR TEAM
ALLY WINKLER
Ally joined Olden & Associates in May 2023 as a Candidate Urban Planner. She holds a Master's and Honours degree in City and Regional Planning as well as a Bachelor's in Environmental and Geographical Sciences from the University of Cape Town. Her dissertation considered 'Rethinking Conservation in the Driftsands Nature Reserve’. This research allowed her to develop her skills in sustainable planning and gain insight into local planning policy. As a candidate urban planner at Olden & Associates, Ally's knowledge of and skills in these areas have been a great asset to the practice, and she contributes effectively to a wide range of projects. After working hours, Ally enjoys hiking, baking, and relaxing with friends and family.
SOFIA BRIEL
Sofia joined Olden & Associates in June 2023 as a Candidate Urban Planner. She holds a Master's and Honours degree in City and Regional Planning as well as a Bachelors in Architectural Studies from the University of Cape Town. Her dissertation considered the barriers to developing affordable housing on well-located land associated with the planning regulations and by-laws in Cape Town. Through this she gained proficiency in land use planning and development, offering valuable insights into local planning policies and regulations. At Olden & Associates, Sofia's role as a candidate urban planner capitalizes on her knowledge and skills in these areas, and her prior experience in Architecture. In her free time, Sofia spends time with friends and family and enjoys running and reading.
COLEEN GARNETT
Coleen meticulously maintains the accounts and books of the practice, as well as performing many integral administrative functions, including invoicing, paying of creditors, SARS returns, salaries and debt recovery. Our longest-serving staff member, she has been with the company since 2005. Never one to lift her head from the books for long, Coleen enjoys reading in her spare time and is a dedicated grandparent to her young grandson.