Meet Lourdes Rodriguez

Teach the Future has many advocators in hubs worldwide. Let's take a closer look at Lourdes Rodriguez, our advocator in Spain.

My background is in psychology. Since 2010 I work as a trends researcher & analyst for leading companies in Spain and Latin America where I develop and implement reports and strategies for companies from different sectors. I also teach and speak at conferences, seminars and training courses on innovation and trend analysis for C-level, public agencies and governments. 

2 years ago I started learning more about futures studies, speculative design and system change. Next to being an advocator for TTF in Spain and a network coordinator for TTF Global, I’m also part of Speculative Futures Madrid and helped with organising the PRIMER EU conference last October. 

What drives you in life?
I have been always passionate about knowing what the next big thing is. I am constantly learning about new social, cultural, philosophical and artistic movements. Above all, I am interested in the study and analysis of people as social beings, capable of the best but also of the worst. My wish, perhaps utopian, is that the light gradually overcomes the darkness, that we become more aware of our weaknesses as a species. And that we actively work, both individually and as a group, to build regenerative and inclusive futures.

Why do you feel teaching the future is important?
Kids and young adults are the future, it’s important that they are prepared to thrive in a world full of challenges, constant change and disruption.

Why is teaching the future important specifically in Spain?
In Spain the field of futures studies is not very widespread. I feel that, as in other countries, Spain is suffering a resurgence of polarisation and lack of critical thinking. It is crucial that our younger generations look for ways to become active futures makers, and find ways to connect with each other despite our growing differences in political ideas and beliefs.

What do you think the world will look like if teaching the future becomes the default?
I think we will have a more critical world, where people are more conscious about the wholeness and our role in a greater system, which we need to take care of and regenerate.
  Thank you for inspiration and dedication Lourdes!