Rael Futerman

Dr. Rael Futerman is an accomplished designer-educator, strategist, and advocate for transformative and participatory approaches to learning, innovation, and social impact. With deep roots in educational research and practice, his work spans curriculum development, capacity building, platform innovation, and the advancement of design thinking pedagogy across local and international contexts. Background and Philosophy With a Doctorate in Design (DTech) from Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), Rael draws on a rich academic foundation and over fifteen years of professional experience in design, education, and social innovation. His pedagogical philosophy centers on the belief that learning should be transformative—empowering individuals and communities to think adaptively, act collectively, and solve complex, real-world challenges. Rael is passionate about co-creation, systemic thinking, and the cultivation of “third spaces”: liminal zones where creative reflection, critical dialogue, and innovation flourish, especially at the intersection of diverse disciplines and cultures.[1] Leadership at Cartedo As the Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Cartedo, Rael leads the development of an AI-powered platform for simulation-based learning. Cartedo harnesses technology to improve student engagement and learning outcomes by designing challenge-based, experiential learning programs focused on design thinking, venture creation, and creative leadership. Under Rael’s leadership, Cartedo has become a force for educational transformation—enabling teachers and learners to engage in authentic, practical problem-solving within virtual and hybrid environments. Rael’s work at Cartedo goes beyond platform innovation. He designs and delivers learning experiences that mobilize agency, foster adaptive mindsets, and catalyze collaboration among cross-disciplinary stakeholders. These experiences are tailored to prepare students and educators for the futures of work and learning, especially within an increasingly ambiguous and volatile global context. Practical tools, actionable frameworks, and real-world simulations are key elements of his approach, ensuring that learning translates into meaningful action and impact. Strategic Leadership and Advisory Roles Rael’s expertise is recognized through his strategic advisory roles, notably with Teachers Without Borders, where he serves on the Global Advisory Board. Here, he offers thought leadership on educational innovation, capacity building, and participatory design for education, supporting global collaboration for sustainable development. His insights have helped shape initiatives that bridge gaps in access to quality education, empowering educators and students, particularly in underserved regions, with practical tools, community networks, and transformative pedagogies. In addition to consultancy and advisory work, Rael engages in mentorship and education programs, where he supports young professionals and educators in developing their practice, leadership, and impact within the broader design and innovation sectors. Experience in Higher Education and Program Development Prior to Cartedo, Rael was the founding Programme Manager of the Hasso Plattner d-school at the University of Cape Town (UCT). At UCT’s Graduate School of Business, he championed the introduction and development of design thinking as a driver of innovation in emerging markets. His work involved designing and delivering challenge-based learning journeys; engaging project partners from industry, government, and NGOs; and pioneering research to advance design thinking’s application across sectors. In earlier roles at CPUT, Rael coordinated the Design for Social Innovation and Sustainability (DESIS) Lab, focusing on curriculum development and research in design for social impact and sustainability. He served as an industrial design lecturer, curriculum officer, and program leader, shaping responsive and locally attuned curricula, integrating industry and community partnerships, and supporting students in becoming adaptive problem-solvers in a changing world. Areas of Expertise and Service Offerings Rael’s areas of expertise include: • Participatory Design: Shaping learning environments and programs that engage stakeholders as co-creators in the design process, ensuring that outcomes are relevant, sustainable, and impactful. • Design Thinking Facilitation: Leading workshops, courses, and innovation sprints that introduce and embed design thinking methodologies to drive creative problem-solving and strategic innovation. • Curriculum Design and Educational Innovation: Developing challenge-based, experiential learning journeys tailored to a range of audiences—from graduate students and executive MBA cohorts to educators and organizational leaders. • Platform and EdTech Strategy: Advising on the design, development, and scaling of educational technologies, with a special focus on simulation-based learning platforms and the integration of AI to enhance engagement and personalization. • Creative Leadership and Capacity Building: Empowering educators, students, and organizational teams to learn adaptively, foster agency, and mobilize collective intelligence to address complex challenges. • Research and Thought Leadership: Publishing and speaking internationally on topics such as participatory innovation, urban learning ecologies, and systemic pedagogy in mainstream and academic forums. What Rael Can Offer 1. Co-Designer and Facilitator of Transformative Learning Experiences Rael brings a wealth of experience in designing and facilitating transformative educational programs that mobilize agency, creativity, and collective intelligence. He partners with institutions, organizations, and community networks to co-design learning journeys rooted in challenge-based and participatory frameworks. His approach encourages learners to take ownership, collaborate deeply, and navigate uncertainty as they build practical skills for the future of work and society. 2. Advisor on Educational Innovation and Strategy Organizations seeking to innovate their approach to education - whether through curriculum redesign, platform development, or pedagogical transformation - can benefit from Rael’s advisory services. He offers strategic guidance informed by applied research, international benchmarks, and practice-based insights, supporting clients in navigating change and shaping future-ready educational environments. 3. Facilitator for Cross-Disciplinary and Stakeholder Engagement Rael is skilled at bringing together diverse stakeholders - from industry, government, non-profits, and academia - in dynamic, real-world contexts. He facilitates the creation of “third spaces” for dialogue, reflection, and co-creation, unlocking new possibilities for innovation and social impact. These engagements utilize participatory design, speculative futures, and systems thinking to address shared challenges and opportunities. 4. Mentor and Capacity Builder His commitment to mentorship is evident in his work with emerging professionals, educators, and design leaders. Rael supports personal and professional growth, helping mentees develop adaptive mindsets, leadership skills, and design capacities that are crucial for thriving in today’s rapidly changing environments. 5. Researcher and Thought Leader Rael is an active contributor to the discourse on design, innovation, and education. He publishes academic and popular articles, presents at international forums, and shares insights on topics including participatory innovation, transformative pedagogy, social impact design, and ecosystem development. He is available for keynote talks, workshops, and collaborative research projects to advance the field and inspire broader change. Conclusion Dr. Rael Futerman is an innovator at the intersection of design, education, and social impact. His participatory approach, commitment to transformative pedagogy, and expertise in challenge-based, experiential learning are assets to any institution, organization, or initiative aiming to build future-ready, adaptive learners and leaders. Through partnership, facilitation, strategy, mentorship, and research, Rael offers a unique blend of vision, practice, and global perspective—helping unlock new possibilities for learning, innovation, and positive change in an uncertain world.[1] Let’s connect if you are interested in: • Designing transformative learning programs • Embedding participatory design and co-creation into curricula, platforms, or projects • Facilitating cross-disciplinary, stakeholder engagement for innovation and impact • Advancing educational technology and simulation-based learning • Thought leadership, workshops, research, or mentorship in design thinking and adaptive learning Rael’s proven track record and collaborative spirit make him an ideal partner for those seeking to create responsive, impactful, and future-oriented educational experiences.