Knatokie Ford
While ambition and passion are crucial, she says, having enablers – mentors, teachers and supporters – is key to this process. They help you ‘broker’ tomorrow by identifying what could be, rather than focusing on supposed limitations. ‘Even in sixth grade, a teacher told me I could be senior class president in high school. That kind of affirmation is powerful,’ she reflects.
Looking ahead, Ford imagines a world where Augmented Futures becomes an embedded part of education, helping children actively design their paths rather than simply reacting to circumstances. ‘We always tell kids they can be anything, but we rarely give them the tools to wrap their heads around,’ she says. ‘I want to make structured future thinking exercises a standard part of education, not just an occasional career day discussion.’
Beyond classrooms, she sees applications for business leaders, policy-makers and entrepreneurs who struggle with future thinking. Adults, too, need help imagining better possibilities – especially in a world increasingly defined by uncertainty.
In this conversation, we delve into our shared experience of imposter syndrome, the case for adding the A of ‘arts’ into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths), the year 2034 and the power of high vibrations.
Find out more about Dr Knatokie Ford’s work on her website and follow her on Instagram.
