PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
I work at the confluence of behavioral research, design, art and writing. I do three things, all circling around society and human behavior:
I independently collaborate with corporations, startups, conglomerates, ministries and NGOs on human behavior transformation projects. I use behavioral science, design and systems thinking for this purpose.
I write about being social and am more interested in exploring everyday practices and taboo topics.
I create artistic zines related to wildlife and our practices with nature.
I am naturally curious about people and their practices. I am curious about why we do what we do. I find it difficult to operate without understanding self in such a manner.
I realize that these learnings from my curiosity can be constructively and disruptively put to use, to make ours and others' lives better. This motivates me to do what I do.
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO COME TO THE UNSCHOOL?
My then-approach to problem solving was struggling to comprehend the dynamics of interconnected systems. I was, therefore, seeking to learn systems thinking, and I came across the UnSchool workshop in Sydney.
I liked the disrupting attitude of the school of thought and decided to learn systems thinking from the UnSchool.
HOW DO YOU APPLY WHAT YOU LEARNED AT THE UNSCHOOL?
It was that systems thinking tools could be used single-handedly by an individual. They don't necessarily need teamwork. Also, a) the importance of identifying, acknowledging and managing group dynamics while facilitating, b) a peek into how to make group interactions experiential.
The few initiatives I am looking out for are:
Gamifying training modules for industry/construction laborers and lorry drivers who are illiterate to semi-literate
An organizational experiential workshop intended to transform behaviors to being sensitive to self and other
Advising a team of architect-developers to design evidence-based built environments, so as to enhance well-being, creative thought and productive energy among its occupants
UnSchool helped me by giving me the confidence to play with big interconnected ecosystems. It has given me confidence and also helped me identify my process and style in designing experiences.
Whenever I use the systems maps or design experiences, Leyla's vibe rings in my ears. In a way, envisioning her motivates me and lets me know that I am doing it right.
HOW DO YOU AMPLIFY CHANGE IN THE WORLD?
I’m still figuring it out. Meanwhile, I write about projects, processes and impact, and I attend some worthy conventions to talk about the use of behavioral science and systems thinking for problem-solving. Both are generating noise, conversations and network.
HOW CAN PEOPLE FOLLOW YOUR WORK?
I am an independent collaborator. I always welcome conversations and collaborations. One can approach me here:
LinkedIN
Instagram
Twitter
Medium
Inspired by one of my projects on adolescent sexual health, I am writing a book for adolescent boys and girls. It is aimed to be a reference guide for respect, consent, quality, self-determination and agency. I am seeking a mentor and/or funder for this endeavour!
