REFLECTIVE JOURNAL SESSION 12

Pre-workshop

publica Detroit 2019 – Where Do We Go From Here?

Ingrid Lafleur, a curator of Afrofuturism, moderated a panel discussion at re

with Wilson Yao from Accra, Ghana, and Armin van Esch. The discussion focused on creating equitable futures, innovation, and the role of technology, particularly blockchain, in supporting Afrofuturist ideas.

Key Points:

1. Introduction and Backgrounds:

• Wilson Yao: Works in Accra, Ghana, aiming to build a new generation of African innovators who shape new narratives through social impact and technology.

• Armin van Esch: Edited a book on various futurisms, including Afrofuturism, and is interested in reclaiming the future amidst right-wing dominance in discourse.

1. Innovation and Leadership:

• Lafleur emphasizes the need to unlearn conventional leadership notions to foster innovation.

• Innovation should be a collaborative effort, embracing diverse perspectives and fostering creative abrasion, agility, and resolution.

• Example from Pixar: The iterative, interrelated, and messy process of making a movie involves 250 people over 4-5 years.

1. Equitable Futures:

• Yao discusses the concept of "mental attitude imperialism," where ideas from certain geographical regions are prioritized over others, limiting global innovation.

• He emphasizes the importance of elevating African ideas to benefit both African and Western societies.

1. Population Growth and Innovation:

• The panelists discuss the implications of Africa's rapidly growing young population.

• Yao points out the necessity of creating opportunities for this demographic to prevent potential security risks.

• Lafleur highlights the importance of reconnecting with nature and community values through Afrofuturism.

1. Technology and Blockchain:

• Blockchain technology is seen as a tool for creating decentralized, equitable systems.

• Lafleur shares an example from Detroit where blockchain is used to support mesh networks, providing internet access to underserved communities.

• Yao mentions a project in Ghana using blockchain for land registry, enabling access to microcredit and improving livelihoods.

1. Security Concerns:

• The discussion touches on the need to address security risks alongside economic empowerment.

• Yao highlights the potential for instability if security issues are not managed effectively, particularly in rapidly growing African nations.

1. Cultural Exchange and Identity:

• Lafleur observes the increasing visibility and cultural exchange between African, Caribbean, and Black American communities.

• This exchange enriches the collective identity and supports the growth of Afrofuturist ideas.

Conclusion:

The panel underscores the need for intentionality in using technology to create equitable futures and the importance of integrating diverse cultural perspectives. They call for a balance between technological advancement and a deep respect for nature and community values to build resilient, prosperous societies.

Case study 3- Circular Economy

Circular Economy Overview: The circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation highlights the concept through a series of videos, emphasizing business, learning, insight, analysis, and communication efforts to accelerate the transition to this sustainable model.

Key Examples of Circular Economy in Action:

1. Modular Headphones and Clothing Platforms:

• Modular headphones are available via subscription instead of purchase.

• Platforms for renting and sharing clothes are being developed.

• H&M's latest business models focus on circular practices.

1. Designing Out Waste:

• Innovations in designing 100% recyclable fibers and plastic packaging alternatives made from seaweed.

1. Patagonia's Sustainable Practices:

• Patagonia embraces eco-conscious and sustainable business practices while remaining a profitable company.

• WornWear.com is Patagonia's online store for used clothing, promoting reuse instead of disposal.

1. Eileen Fisher's Timeless Fashion:

• Eileen Fisher promotes sustainable fashion, describing her design philosophy as "simple" and "circular."

• The company's Recycle, Renew program collaborates with art students to emphasize sustainability in fashion.

1. Everlane's Ethical Denim:

• Everlane challenges the conventional denim industry by producing environmentally friendly and ethical denim products.

1. Zero Waste Daniel:

• Designer Daniel Silverstein creates a zero-waste fashion line from fabric scraps, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in fashion.

Key Takeaways:

• The circular economy involves innovative practices across various industries, focusing on sustainability, waste reduction, and the continual use of resources.

• Companies like Patagonia, Eileen Fisher, and Everlane demonstrate how businesses can integrate circular economy principles into their operations.

• Collaborative efforts, such as partnerships with students and designers, play a crucial role in advancing sustainable practices.

Reflection and Discussion Points:

• The importance of rethinking ownership and designing out waste.

• Surprising innovations and practical applications of circular economy principles.

• Curiosities about how other industries can adopt similar sustainable practices.

The case study emphasizes that transitioning to a circular economy requires innovative thinking, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability across all sectors.