Systems change requires collaboration among diverse stakeholders – individuals, organizations, governments, etc. – who share a common goal. This collaboration can involve shifting mindsets, altering power dynamics, and strengthening relationships within the system, according to Catalyst Now. Systems change recognizes that issues are interconnected and that changes in one part of a system can impact others. It’s a continuous process of learning, adapting, and innovating to navigate the complexities of systems and achieve desired outcomes.  This is precisely why bringing art and beauty into the process, especially with young people, is an ideal way to advance one’s understanding of systems change and change these systems collectively.

Danielle Lanyard is the co-founder of the Regenerative Technology Project and founder of big deep digital, a boutique tech firm serving mission-driven ventures. Her career spans impact, sustainability, technology and storytelling. Her path includes creating Laos’ first Sustainable Development college course, serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Senegal, and working as Development Director for the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy in Berlin. She founded the startup Green Breakfast Club to grow the green startup ecosystem. When unexpected health issues arose, this startup was tabled and her tech career was born.  But working in tech was not enough; the tiny voice in her heart kept whispering for a return to her true calling: deep ecology and climate action. She set out to converge tech and climate action into a new chapter. She co-founded the Regenerative Technology Project, became a principal at Foundation Earth, and is now weaving this new Climate Quilt project. Because there is no planet B.