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Forest

Navigating Wicked Problems with People at the Forefront

Change is essential yet navigating through complex challenges and finding consensus on how to create change can be daunting. Especially when dealing with wicked problems - those messy, interconnected challenges where one decision can impact numerous others. 

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That's where I come in. Hi, I'm Julia! I offer a powerful solution to help you understand the people who matter most to your organization. Using design thinking, I will guide you through untangling wicked problems to uncover the root cause of problems and unmet stakeholder needs.

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With my expertise in design thinking, we will craft a customized journey to success that puts people at the forefront. Together, we will navigate through complexity, drive meaningful change, and ensure equity for all stakeholders. 

Are you ready to listen? Design Thinking with an Emphasis on Equity and Empathy

In today's business landscape, putting people first is essential. Your organization's value is derived from the people it serves. When faced with challenges, it's crucial to turn to those affected as the experts on their own experience. 

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Design thinking offers a powerful approach to problem-solving, where empathy takes center stage. By working with people to understand their perspectives and uncover "aha!" moments, new approaches can be sparked. This approach is particularly effective for tackling wicked problems - complex challenges with differing opinions and heightened emotions.

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As a design thinking consultant, I bring an empathy-based approach to the table. I collaborate with you to understand the unique needs and perspectives of all stakeholders, prioritizing equity and inclusivity in the process. Together, we can navigate the complexities, find innovative solutions, and create a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach to problem-solving. 

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Are you ready to listen to the people impacted by the challenges you face? Let's work together to harness the power of design thinking and drive positive change. Connect with me to explore how I help your organization thrive in today's dynamic business environment. 

My Empathy-Driven Design Thinking Approach

With over 15 years of experience, I prioritize equity and empathy in helping businesses tackle complex challenges. With a human-centered approach, I guide organizations in uncovering valuable insights, co-creating innovative solutions, and driving positive change.

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Combining design thinking methodologies with a focus on equity, I work collaboratively with your team to challenge assumptions, foster inclusivity, and align solutions with your organization's goals and values. My goal is to empower your team to think critically and achieve transformative outcomes.​

Empower your Organization with Design Thinking

Let's collaborate to embed design thinking and drive positive change in your organization.

I offer: 

  • Equity-Centered Design Research: Uncover valuable user insights through empathy-based research

  • Consulting: Find innovative solutions, empower people, and foster a design culture

  • Workshops and Training: Custom programs to equip your team with design thinking skills

  • Speaking Engagements: Inspiring talks on design thinking, equity, and innovation at conferences and events.

 

Let's work together to harness the power of design thinking for meaningful results. Contact me to explore how we can create positive change.

​​Watch my TEDx Talk

In 2022 I was delighted to deliver a TEDx talk at RyersonU entitled “Design Yourself to Change the World.” Here’s what TEDx said about the talk: 

This personal, insightful, and heartfelt talk will leave you with a blueprint for designing yourself so you, too, can change the world. Julia is a leader, innovator and author who specializes in equity-centered design thinking. She strives to design with, rather than for people.  

Cover image for Design Thinking in Student Affairs: A Primer, book by Julia Allworth, Lesley D'Souza, and Gavin Henning

Read my book

I’ve worked with co-authors Lesley D'Souza and Gavin W. Henning to write about how design thinking works to create change in higher education. Design Thinking in Student Affairs covers frameworks for transformative changes in higher education and beyond.

image of a forest
image of a forest

SEE THE FOREST.

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