Seeing the other

shaping political discourse, policy development and imagining the future

Human relationships are the key to building a better society. Each of us carry our own beliefs, values and narratives. We listen to our own feelings, mind & heart but seldom are ready to see & hear the other. When we encounter difficult topics (like climate change, development race, class & gender), challenging situations (homelessness, redistribution & land rights) & disagreeable positions, our normative response is to react and defend. Our ability to see, hear and learn from each other is the only way to shape a better society.

Seeing the Other (StO) is a change agent and collective. We work in the balance between conflict and consensus. StO uses narratives, storytelling, data analytics, strategic & political advice, advocacy and future imaginings to shape this balance. We help build bridges and embrace complexity for systemic change whilst recognising the need for short term change.

Our journey always begins with relationships. We use relationships as a point to understand the heart of any complex issue, conflict or condition. Our methodology moves away from ‘quick and static solutions’ to strategies that are generative, dynamic and distinctly lateral. We help move beyond attributing blame to conversations, pathways and processes that contribute to collective solutions. .

Change happens when we see each other…..

MORE COMING SOON

Putting our thinking into action

  • Accelerating people centered delivery and public policy

    Working with people, we seek to accelerate delivery and implementation on key systemic issues such as climate adaptation, housing rights, land struggles and service delivery. This includes strategic advice and capabilities on shaping complex public participation programmes, socio-technical support, development advice and capabilities that drive delivery. We provide human and humane solutions at the intersection of social justice, and urban governance.

  • Curating storytelling and data

    Curating storytelling, narratives and data analytics in imagining the future of our cities. We curate an annual publication of disruptive and radical ideas on cities using stories, comics, poetry, dystopian/ utopian imaginations, graphic art etc.

  • Enabling institution building

    Supporting the turnaround, formation and strategic advice to institutions that are embedded in deep societal change and social good. Institution building is deeply embedded in changing peoples hearts & minds and influencing their relationship with the broader ecosystem.