Hi, I’m Suzanne…
I’m a futurer, facilitator, communicator, and storyteller and I use my skills and experience to co-create hopeful, sustainable and resilient futures. I’m interested in the many different ways that we can explore and use possible futures to make change in the present.
I created this podcast because I believe that exploring possible futures can help us IMAGINE how things could be different, what the world might be like if we tackled some of our wicked problems, and took action in the here and now.
If we can imagine what’s possible, we can set ourselves a goal and we can do two things: first, we can think about what change we can make in the present to make our vision a reality, and take steps to make change. Second, we can think about what the future might bring if we don’t take action, and think about how we can cope with the challenges to come – in other words, we can build resilience.
The thing is that there are so many ways to explore possible futures and I only know a fraction of the work that people are doing in this area. I want to know more, and I want to share what they are doing with a wider audience. Why? Partly because futures work is exciting and fun and creative and meaningful. Partly because futures work is important in challenging long-held beliefs and biases. And partly because I believe that incorporating futures thinking and imagination into every aspect of our lives CAN help us create shifts that are good for present and future generations, as well as the planet and its myriad creatures.
My background
I’m lucky in that I have been exploring possible futures since I was able to read and, crucially, choose my own reading material! My first exposure to futures came through devouring volumes of science fiction and fantasy writing. Later, as a performance storyteller, I started to incorporate futures into my oral storytelling shows, transporting people not only into the worlds of traditional tales, but also into possible futures where humans were doing okay but not on planet earth. In my work as a facilitator and communicator with an interest in science, sustainability (social, environmental, and economic) and hope, I have been using futures as a tool to help businesses innovate, communities to think strategically, and individuals to explore their sense of agency. Finally, as a researcher at VU Amsterdam, I am exploring how multi-sensory, place-based stories of the future might help us encourage (climate) action.
I am the founder of two businesses, Futures Fit and SciComm Success, and several initiatives. Most of my work involves designing and delivering workshops, giving talks, and creating immersive experiences. If you’re interested, you can learn more here.
I’m always open to finding new ways to apply my skills, experience, and creativity to make a difference. If you’d like to work together to make that happen, feel free to get in touch.