18th Jun 2024 Gemini 1.5 Pro
Aubrey Yee's approach to futures thinking diverges from traditional strategic planning. She emphasizes embracing emergence and approaching the future with an open heart and mind. She believes that Western society, with its linear perception of time, struggles to be present and envision a future different from the default trajectory. Instead of focusing on fixed outcomes, Aubrey advocates for sensing into the collective field and aligning actions with values rooted in interconnectedness with nature and collective liberation.
It's like sensing into the collective field of what's wanting to emerge through that value set and sort of the moral standpoint of like we're here as nature, we are of nature, we seek to, you know, walk lightly upon the earth and to be a species that's in harmony with right relation with the more than human world.
Aubrey emphasizes that "futures," as opposed to "future," recognizes the multiplicity of possibilities and the contextual nature of envisioning what lies ahead. She champions a process of continuous inquiry and encourages sitting with the mystery of the unknown rather than clinging to rigid answers.
Aubrey's work with the Omidyar Network provided her with insights into the world of philanthropy. She emphasizes the importance of trust and genuine relationships in networks, cautioning against transactional approaches prevalent in the sector. Aubrey believes that deep, meaningful connections are crucial for creating the lasting impact desired in systems change work.
I think networks are really important...But it's deep work and it requires trust and relationship. So it actually requires an investment in trust and relationship.
She also highlights a common misconception surrounding responsibility in philanthropy. While many organizations focus on financial returns and cautious distribution, Aubrey argues that true responsibility lies in facilitating the flow of capital. She encourages a shift in mindset where spending down endowments is celebrated as a mark of success, indicating a commitment to addressing urgent issues.
Aubrey currently works with Culture Hack Labs, an organization exploring narrative-led systems change. They believe that rewriting the stories we tell ourselves about the world is crucial for creating a future that supports life. Aubrey describes Culture Hack Labs as a grand experiment, bringing together diverse individuals to challenge existing narratives and imagine more equitable and regenerative alternatives.
And what does it look like to shift that? And so if you think about hacking and the idea of getting into computer code and rewriting the code, what does it look like to rewrite the code of culture?
Aubrey highlights the importance of shifting from a fear-based, scarcity-driven mindset to one that embraces uncertainty and celebrates mistakes as learning opportunities. This transition, she believes, requires organizations to adopt a more organic and adaptable approach, drawing inspiration from natural systems.
Project Biome, another initiative Aubrey is involved in, focuses on unlocking the regenerative potential within both human systems and the natural world. Working primarily in Southern Africa, the project aims to restore ecological balance by removing barriers to natural processes and supporting initiatives that work in harmony with nature's intelligence.
It's a project biome, you know, in the world is looking to unlock the powers of regeneration. It's really working with earth and human systems to unlock these latent powers of regeneration do things like make beautiful flowers for free every morning or fruit off a tree and are just have been blocked
Central to Project Biome's approach is the belief that organizations should function more like living organisms. Aubrey emphasizes the need to incorporate biomimicry and other principles inspired by nature into organizational structures and decision-making processes. This shift, she believes, will enable organizations to become more adaptable, resilient, and aligned with the principles of life.
Aubrey's poetic nature shines through in her work, believing that imagination is humanity's most potent force. She sees the world as a collective dream, urging individuals to become conscious dreamers and actively participate in shaping a more beautiful and just reality.
I think imagination is the most potent force available to humanity. We don't realize how powerful it is.
Through her podcast, "Our Beloved Futures," Aubrey provides a platform for sharing inspiring stories, igniting hope, and fostering collaboration among those working towards a regenerative future. She aims to create a space where individuals feel empowered to embrace their unique gifts and contribute to the collective dreaming of new possibilities.
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