Dr Nina Terrey and Dr Melis Senova present a joint keynote presentation to launch the inaugural DSC Doctoral Research Conference, exploring the theme of regenerative futures.

Bathtubs, babies, and barnacles – what have they got to do with the future of design?

This talk will address the opportunities for designers to be more systemic, systematic, and regenerative. Drawing from firsthand observations over the last twenty years of the strategic design industry, this talk will explore the changing requirements for designers and why the role is more important than ever. A core provocation is the emerging regenerative literacy designers need to create a positive and lasting impact on the world. The trajectory of regenerative systems is essential for planetary healing and health.

The way out, is in: the role of inner development in designing regenerative futures

Through exploring the role of 'design character' in design and leadership, this discussion will consider how the inner world of designers directly influences the outer world they create. Regenerative design requires designers and leaders to be potent and ethical practitioners, whose work has long lasting, systemic impact. To instigate this level of change we must focus on developing our character to meet the unique opportunities and challenges this work presents.

Speakers

Dr Nina Terrey co-founded ThinkPlace, a global innovation and design company. Nina has dedicated her career to fostering sustainable changes in systems and initiatives delivering public good. Nina has carved a niche in co-designing complex systems change addressing pressing environmental and social challenges. Nina has worked with governments, foundations, industry leaders, community groups, and organizations worldwide across diverse problem spaces such as energy transition to net zero, circular economy, gender equality, and strengthening institutions and democratic systems. Beyond her consultancy and advisory roles, Dr. Terrey contributes to the broader discourse on sustainability, regenerative futures, and design thinking through academic teaching, speaking engagements, workshops, and published works. Nina holds a PhD in Design and is on her own regenerative journey, currently studying for a Master's in Sustainability at Harvard Extension School.

Dr Melis Senova is an entrepreneur, author, executive advisor and recognised industry leader in systemic design and human-centred leadership with 15 years consulting experience, and 23 years in design-led practice. Co-founder of the strategic design firm Huddle, author of This Human (2017) and Design Character (2023), Melis’ current focus is on establishing her latest venture, This Human, a social enterprise focussed on personal development for the creators and leaders committed to a regenerative future.

Order of proceedings: one hour keynote address, followed by a networking reception.

The DSC Doctoral Research Conference brings together the College's three existing symposia – Practice Research Symposium (PRS), Urban Futures Symposium and Social Change Symposium – to create a shared space for innovation, sustainability and resilience aligned with the theme of regenerative futures.