“6 Qualities to Design a Better World,” in the centre on a blue background. Navy blobs at the top and bottom opposite corners with pink outline blobs.

When going into activism and advocacy work, learning how to contribute to the issues you care about is a journey. To take action to improve the situation for a better world requires many aspects working together to make progress in the goals of a society we strive for. So, what aspects do we need to consider to design a better world?

Imagination

In order to find solutions and ideas to the issues in your community, you need to think beyond what currently exists. This will require imagining what experiences we can have. In many ways, it is reimagining what currently exists, expanding to seek the different, potentially radical ideas that can shift the perspective on the issue. Without imagination, we are more likely to stick with the status quo and believe that things cannot change. Keep on imagining!

Inclusion

Designing a better world usually revolves around finding what can work for everyone to have a great quality of life and find enjoyment in this world. In order to be for everyone, we have to be inclusive to the different experiences and perspectives to reach a common goal. There is always more than one solution and it will need an inclusive mindset to welcome them with open arms.

Intersectionality

Including different perspectives does require an understanding of the intersectionality of experiences and identity. While simplicity is nice, it likely will not provide the space and attention to consider how different issues and experiences interact to gain a full picture of the realities of our society. Without considering the intersectionality of experiences, the solution may not be effective to sustain long-term if it does not meet the wide range of needs, wants, and goals.

Learning

To make sure that imagination stays active and meaningful for inclusion and intersectionality, learning is a key skill to have. The world is constantly evolving and changing to adapt to the new realities on a regular basis. With those changes, people always have something to learn and something to share. New ideas, strategies, and solutions are appearing on a consistent basis with our digital world and opportunities to learn and implement solutions have been getting easier. Take advantage of the resources, learnings, and advice that are being given out.

Leadership

The drive to take action to improve issues within our communities usually requires leadership to maintain the momentum. Whether it is you taking the initiative to create change or you wanting to be part of an organization or group’s mission due to the leadership that is driving the momentum, leadership is a key quality that allows direction and focus towards the overall goal.

Collaboration

While leadership is important, it means nothing without collaboration to connect all aspects to design a better world. The collective of experiences, ideas, skill sets, and imaginations is much stronger than one person. It is also more likely to be inclusive with intersectionality in mind if the collaboration is intentional and meaningful. We can all learn from each other and support each other to continue taking action towards the world we strive for.

Amanda

6 Qualities to Design a Better World