Changemakers Magazine KIA MV

How can designers and innovators make a real difference in complex transitions? In the new magazine Dat Maakt Impact (That makes impact) by KIA Maatschappelijk Verdienvermogen and CLICKNL, eight changemakers from different disciplines share their insights and experiences. One of them is our very own Jens Gijbels, founder of Fundamentals, who shares his perspective on the value of Systemic Co-Design, the importance of being honest with one another, and the evolving role of designers in societal change.

Collaborating in the in-between space

At Fundamentals, we work daily in the in-between space: a place where education, research, and practice meet. It’s not just about dreaming or thinking together, but about taking action. In his contribution to the magazine, Jens highlights how crucial it is to embrace the complexity of societal challenges and to build meaningful collaborations to address them. Designers, researchers, and really ‘anyone affected by a system’ are part of this. “Tear down the ivory tower,” Jens says, as he underlines the importance of collaboration, particularly through Systemic Co-Design. ‘It’s no longer enough to design just for aesthetics or function. Designers must understand human behaviour, psychology, and system dynamics.’

_{Picture: Jens as host of the ESConference May 2024, by Leroy Beesemer}

Insights from other changemakers

Alongside Jens, seven other changemakers share their experiences in the magazine. One of them is Rik Braams, a former government official and transition researcher, who brings a unique perspective to the public sector. In his article, Rik talks about the role of government in system change and advocates for cross-organizational coalitions: “New collaborations are essential, transitions don’t adhere to our policy boundaries.”

Another featured changemaker is Eric Gerritsen, who works with the Dutch government programme DuurzaamDoor to accelerate transitions. “We do this by bringing together professionals who wouldn’t usually meet,” he says—preferably with a neutral, independent facilitator to guide the process. Eric’s contribution explores the importance of collaboration, empathy, and the potential reflexive monitoring brings to government contexts.

Curious about the full stories of Jens, Rik, Eric and the five other changemakers? There’s plenty more to discover in the full publication.

A must-read for changemakers

Dat Maakt Impact offers both inspiration and practical tools for professionals aiming to increase their impact in transitions.

We’d like to thank KIA MV and CLICKNL for this valuable publication, and the Expertise Network Systemic Co-Design for connecting our work. Want to dive deeper into the insights and tools of these changemakers?

Read the full magazine here.