Talks

The human instinct to solve problems is the DNA of design.

Through the design lens, Optimistic Futures Academy inspires and mediates debate on contemporary business and social challenges.

The programme is led by Optimistic Futures co-founder, David Kester. As a former CEO of the UK Design Council and D&AD, he brings his network and experience to the curation and moderation of in-house speaker events, conferences and design days.

Commissions vary from one-off talks given by David, to curated events in the UK and internationally. The Academy can provide communications and production support.

Our goal is to support innovators and change agents in business with methods, tips and tricks, and the confidence to get going.

Over recent years, we have run inspirational talks and design days for major companies and curated conferences for cultural and governmental organisations. Commissioners seek us out for our know-how, creative thinking and network.

Examples include an event series for colleagues and clients at world-leading engineering consultancy Arup, a conference series for the Mayor of London Design Lab, inspirational talks at the global consultancy PwC, international conferences in China, India, Brazil and Europe.