Coalitions Meetup

Time for new coalitions – Journalism x Design

Societal issues are complex, multi-layered, and cannot be solved in a straightforward manner. In order to create momentum, a widely shared sense of urgency is required – only then space for change can emerge. Journalists analyse where progress has stalled; designers search for opportunities to approach matters differently. However, how do these two approaches relate to one another? Are journalists allowed to propose possible solutions? And is design research sufficient to uncover the core of a problem?

The speakers:

During this meetup, we will explore the added value of collaboration in an evolving professional field, together with the following four enthusiastic speakers.

Sophie Tendai Christiaens, design researcher at Stby
Sophie Tendai is a design researcher with an interdisciplinary background, specialising in design for the circular economy. She is driven to decolonise design perspectives and investigates how we can critically question historical and current forms of oppression in order to broaden our thinking and innovation. Based on this conviction, she works on sustainable, contextually refined and effective solutions. In doing so, she focuses on local needs and stories.

Abel Enklaar, editor-in-chief at VPRO Medialab
Abel Enklaar is editor-in-chief at VPRO Medialab, where the possibilities of new technologies are explored to tell stories in creative ways. The Medialab actively seeks cross-pollination with disciplines outside the media world and regularly organises hackathons under the name Publieke Pioniers (translation: Public Pioneers). This brings together journalists, designers, developers and artists to develop prototypes that often grow into innovative projects within public broadcasting.

Daniëlle Arets, Lecturer in Design for Journalism, Fontys University of Applied Sciences
Daniëlle Arets is Professor of Design in Journalism at Fontys University of Applied Sciences. She focuses on the role of design and co-creation in journalism and investigates how design methods can contribute to innovation in the media landscape. Through her work, she connects designers, journalists and researchers to develop new forms of storytelling and journalistic products.

TINKEBELL (Katinka Simonse), artist
TINKEBELL, the artist name of Katinka Simonse, is known for her controversial and provocative work in which she explores social themes and is often featured in the news. Through performances, installations and publications, she confronts the public with ethical dilemmas surrounding consumption, animal welfare and sustainability. Her investigative work, with its strong journalistic content, challenges, provokes debate and questions the boundaries between art, activism and provocation.

For who is this event:

This event is intended for designers, journalists, and organisations that introduce new ideas to bring about positive change in society, as well as stakeholders who wish to apply a design approach to a societal challenge.

As an innovator in society, you are a valuable participant during the event. This meetup will provide the opportunity to learn from one another and to share experiences about working in a design-driven way on societal issues. You will discover how others adress these challenges, gain new insights, and be inspired to apply these methods within your own work.

Practical information:

Date: Thursday 11 September
Times: 19:00 Walk-in
19:30 – 21:00 Plenary programme
21:00 – 22:00 Closing drinks
Location: Pakhuis de Zwijger, Amsterdam

Are you are excited to join this Coalitions Meetup event? Click here to sign up!